Consider this:
- Almost twice as many cats than dogs never visit a Veterinarian.
- 58% of cat caregivers report their cat does not like going to the Veterinarian.
- 38% of cat caregivers report that they get stressed just thinking about bringing their cat to the veterinarian.
- 56% of cat caregivers would have brought their cat to the vet more often had they known it could have helped prevent problems.
- Preventive care examinations, or check-ups, for all cats, should occur a minimum of once yearly, and more frequently for senior cats and those with chronic conditions.
- and those with chronic conditions. In order to improve the health and well-being of cats, the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) created the Cat-Friendly Practices (CFP) program. More information can be found at www.catfriendly.com/cfp.
Navigating the Veterinary Visit
Stress is one of the top reasons caregivers do not bring their cats to the Veterinarian. Caregivers report that the stress of getting their cat into the carrier, transporting their cats to their Veterinarian, or a new and unfamiliar environment causes anxiety for cats and their caregivers before they even set foot in the hospital.
Once in the hospital, there are other potential stressors including dogs or other cats in the waiting area, staff who do not know how to properly handle cats, and a canine-focused environment. Cat-Friendly Practices are the antidote to stressful veterinary visits for cats. Pet Focus Westwood Hills Veterinary Hospital is a designated Cat-Friendly Practice.
Written by Dr. Chris MacDonald