Cat Friendly Practice

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.