Bowmanville Veterinary Clinic is a Certified Cat Friendly Practice!
What to Expect from a Cat Friendly
Practice
CFP’s
have 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.).
Veterinary
staff receives ongoing feline education on medical care, behavior,
communication, and feline-friendly handling techniques.
Feline-only
or feline-centric examination room–a safe, non-threatening area where cats can
be
examined
calmly and effectively.
Trained
staff who recognize subtle, early signs of sickness, fear, or anxiety, and
adapt appropriately.
Veterinary
facility that is well-maintained and equipped for feline patients (cat sized
equipment,
soft
coverings, feline facial pheromone diffuser, etc.)
Procedure
to adjust for each cat based on whatever is least stressful for the cat. Exams
may
be
performed in the carrier, on the floor, or in the veterinarian’s lap.
Cat Friendly Practices’ make
specific changes to ensure they understand a cat’s unique needs and
implement
feline-friendly standards. These changes provide a more calming environment for
cats. CFP’s
can
advise you on ways to reduce stress before and after the visit, including how
to make the carrier a
home
away from home for your cat.
Staff
are trained in approaching and handling 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 the clinic’s wall is earned. Through a self-assessment, the
practice must meet
specified
criteria to verify the staff, environment, and overall veterinary practice is
truly cat friendly.
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/or hospitalization.
The
Cat Friendly Practice® designation
indicates the practice has demonstrated higher levels of commitment and
excellence in feline medicine.
