Anti-platelet therapy in small animal medicine.

Thromboembolism is a significant complication in many commonly encountered diseases, and can be a devastating sequel to otherwise treatable conditions. Platelets play an essential role in the hemostatic process and, consequently, are associated with thrombus formation. Platelets adhere to denuded vascular subendothelium, recruit additional platelets and cells, aggregate, and provide the catalytic surface for thrombin production and fibrin formation. Therapy to prevent unwanted thrombus formation and thromboembolic crises is essential in the management of hypercoagulable patients. Unfortunately, many of the medications used in veterinary medicine that inhibit or modulate coagulation factors, such as the heparins, are cost prohibitive, only effective when administered by injection or require frequent drug monitoring, and are therefore poor choices for long term at home therapy. While the role of the platelet in pathologic thrombus formation is not fully understood, veterinarians often resort to anti-platelet therapy in the management of patients at risk for thromboembolic complications, because many anti-platelet medications are inexpensive, require minimal drug monitoring, and can be given orally. The aim of this review is to discuss the anti-platelet therapies that are currently being used or being considered for use to inhibit platelet function and reduce thromboembolic complications in hypercoagulable dogs and cats.