Summary

In this short overview the principles of evidence-based medicine are introduced and their relevance for small animal practice is discussed. The hierarchic order of evidence is presented, with meta-analyses of many studies or systematic reviews being the most reliable evidence possible, followed by randomized controlled trials, case series, case reports and published expert committee opinions and lastly personal experiences. Evidence of higher quality should overrule contradictory evidence of lower quality, always considering the individual circumstances of the patients and the owner’s wishes.