Vet visits don't have to be stressful! It can be downright difficult to get your cat to the vet, however routine healthcare is essential for your cat to live a long, healthy life. Designated CFPs have made changes to provide a more calming environment for you and your cat. They can even provide tips about how to reduce stress before and after the visit, including how to help you make the carrier a familiar space. Staff members have been trained in how to approach and handle cats in a gentle, empathetic, and caring manner. Some clinics have even made physical adjustments to make the visit more positive for you and your cat.

 

The CFP certificate on a veterinarian’s wall is earned. The practice must meet a comprehensive checklist of performance criteria to verify that staff members are especially qualified and dedicated to making every visit as pleasant and beneficial for you and your cat. When you see the CFP designation at a practice, you can be confident your cat will be given exceptional care and attention through all phases of the visit including examinations, procedures, and hospitalization. The Cat Friendly Practice distinction indicates that a practice has demonstrated higher levels of commitment and excellence in feline medicine.

 

What to Expect from a Cat Friendly Practice. CFP’s have: ·

 

~Incorporated a waiting room/area that reduces stress associated with noise, other pets, or unfamiliar smells (methods can include feline-only area, cat-only appointment times, separate space with a barrier blocking visual contact, etc.). ·

~Staff trained to understand the individualized needs of cats including feline specific facial and behavior cues. ·

~Implemented feline-friendly handling techniques to facilitate a more positive experience. ·

~A feline-only or feline-centric examination room that provides a safe, non-threatening area where cats can be examined calmly and effectively. ·

~Experience to recognize subtle, early signs of fear or anxiety and adapt appropriately