WHAT DOES “FELINE FRIENDLY” MEAN?

It’s assurance that cats are handled with appropriate gentleness and respect at all times. Cat-friendly principles are always adhered to during the care and restraint of cats. This includes-
– Minimizing stress during handling, examinations, and procedures
– Recognizing and minimizing fear and anxiety in cats

TRAVELING TO THE VETERINARY CLINIC IS NOT ALWAYS CAT FRIENDLY!What is feline friendly

Cats often do not travel well and feel unsafe away from their home. New sights, sounds, smells, and nearby dogs and cats are very stressful. A “feline friendly” animal hospital recognizes this and can counteract these stressful circumstances by having;
– Feline specific entrance and exam rooms
– Feline pheromone sprays and diffusers in exam rooms
– Tasty treats
– Elevated surfaces for cats to lie on or boxes to hide in

PREPARE YOUR PET FOR A VETERINARY VISIT

The veterinarian can be scary. An unfamiliar person is touching and looking at them! If you don’t have a cat carrier, make sure to purchase one with a door on top or a removable top. Some cats are more comfortable staying in their carrier during an examination. What else can you do to prepare at home?
– Practice teeth brushing and nail trims at home
– Touch your cat’s ears, face, feet and tail
– Go to the veterinarian for visits that don’t involve exams or procedures to create positive associations
– Speak softly, if your calm chances are your cat will be too
– Leave the carrier out for several days before the appointment
– Put treats, toys and blankets in the carrier for comfort
– NEVER dump your cat out of the carrier! Purchase a carrier with a removable top, for easier access.

BEFORE YOU GO!

Here are some steps you can take to help make the trip to the veterinarian less stressful for your cat.
– Always transport your cat in a carrier
– Each cat should have it’s own carrier
– Spray the carrier with pheromone spray (Feliway) 10-15 minutes before traveling
– Secure the carrier in your car. Preferably in the foot well of the backseat.
– Try to keep the carrier stable while carrying
– Take your cat for a few short car rides to create familiarity
– After each car trip reward your cat with treats and special attention

what is feline friendly

The doctors and staff at Loyal Companions Animal Hospital believe that cats deserve “red carpet” care. Not only do we have a feline specific entrance and exam rooms, but we also don’t have a waiting room. Your cat will never have to see, hear, or smell a dog or another cat. Does your cat have to spend the night with us? Don’t worry. We also have a feline specific treatment area and hospital cages. We don’t want you to be nervous or scared to bring your cat in for necessary vaccines or treatment because of your cat’s anxiety at the veterinarian. Need some more tips or tricks? Call us to talk to a staff member today!