“The Cat Friendly Practice^® program is a global initiative designed to elevate care for cats by reducing stress and making visits easier for cats and caregivers. This is accomplished by supporting the veterinary team so the entire staff is educated and knowledgeable about your cats’ distinct needs and behaviors.

Cat Friendly Practices^® must also meet specific criteria within their practice to earn this designation, which includes providing a waiting area for cats that is separate from other animals (or alternative options to reduce stress prior to entering the exam room) and implementing best practices to reduce stress throughout the visit (exam room, physical exam, pain management, operating and anesthesia, dentistry, diagnostic imaging, and more).

When you visit a Cat Friendly Practice^® you can expect the veterinary team to:

• Understand the unique needs and behaviors of cats.
• Have a feline-friendly environment and make veterinary visits more cat friendly.
• Understand how to approach and handle cats in a gentle, empathetic, and caring manner.
• Have the appropriate equipment and facilities needed to diagnose and treat feline patients.
• Meet specific standards for the facility and care of hospitalized cats.”

The Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FelineVMA) is dedicated to promoting high-quality healthcare for cats. Joining the FelineVMA is voluntary, and those veterinarians who do become members show their commitment to the well-being of their feline patients.

In 2012, the FelineVMA introduced the Cat Friendly Practice program, which offers a clear framework for veterinarians and their teams to demonstrate their dedication to meeting the specific needs of cats and improving the quality of care they provide. Given the unique medical challenges and healthcare concerns that cats present, this program equips veterinary professionals with the tools to effectively address these issues.