Design and Validation of a Simulator for Feline Cephalic Vein Cannulation—A Pilot Study

Abstract

In recent years there has been an increased use of alternative methods for teaching veterinary clinical skills, since ethical considerations preclude the use of live animals for demonstration or practice of many procedures. Skills training on cats (i.e., feline venipuncture) is a particularly challenging area. This study aimed to develop a simulator for cephalic venipuncture in cats and to validate this simulator using questionnaires answered by undergraduate students and experienced veterinarians. The simulator was developed to provide an experience that was close to reality, including an artificial blood system that flows through the catheter when venipuncture is correctly performed, while at the same time using simple methodology and accessible materials so that it could be reproduced in other universities. The experienced vets agreed (44.4%) or strongly agreed (55.6%) that the simulator was good for venipuncture training, and the most useful feature was the experience of catheter manipulation and fixation on the cat’s limb. All the students agreed that the practical class with the simulator was important for learning this skill. Both groups (students and experienced veterinarians) unanimously agreed that it is important to train using a simulator before trying the procedure on a live cat. This simulator offers undergraduate students an alternative way to learn and practice venipuncture in cats helping to reduce the use of live animals in practical classes.