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American Association of Feline Practitioners Cat Friendly Practice, Silver Status

Created by experienced feline practitioners, the Cat Friendly Practice® (CFP) Program is leading the worldwide movement to make veterinary care less stressful for cats and their caregivers.

Established by the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and the International Society for Feline Medicine (ISFM), CFP is a global initiative designed to elevate care for cats by enhancing the environment and experience, as well as reducing stress for the cat, caregiver, and also the entire veterinary team.

We are dedicated to creating the best experience for each individual cat which demonstrates our practice’s commitment to elevating the standard of care for cats. With our Cat Friendly Practice certification we have exclusive access to resources for continuing education for our staff, as well as our clients.

Veterinary Teams Who Understand Cats

Our Cat Friendly Practice® team members are trained in feline-friendly handling which makes a tremendous difference in decreasing the stress and fear during the visit.

  • Cat Friendly Attitude – Our veterinary team is trained to speak softly, avoid direct eye contact with your cat, and move slowly. We know these actions help keep your cat calm and feeling in control. If any team member sees your cat becoming stressed or anxious, they will pause the checkup, let your cat take a break, and resume when she is calmer.
  • Educated Staff – Each Cat Friendly Practice® has at least one Cat Advocate, although Hanging Rock Animal Hospital has 9 Cat Advocates!  They ensure all team members are trained to understand and handle cats gently and respectfully. They can answer all of your questions and explain the specific cat-friendly features at the practice.
  • Gentle Handling – Our team members use a “less is more” approach when examining your cat, without using heavy restraint which could frighten, stress, or arouse your cat. Your cat’s checkup may take place on the table, floor, or in the veterinarian’s lap wherever your cat is most comfortable.
  • Advice Specific to Cats – Cat Advocates provide you with feline-specific tips, like how to get your cat comfortable with the carrier before the visit. They can also advise you on how to transport your cat to the veterinary office in a way to reduce stress associated with the visit for both you and your cat.

You Care. We Care. Cat Care. Find it Here.

Cat Friendly Homes is dedicated to cat caregivers who want to provide the very best care for their cat.

Cat Friendly Homes is powered by feline veterinarians to provide credible and trustworthy information on a variety of feline topics. Developed by The American Association of Feline Practitioners, this website is a wonderful source to gain knowledge about cat health, behavior, and care.

Your cat needs to feel your confidence and reassurance, especially if they are sick or not feeling well. Your behavior greatly influences your cat’s sense of security and behavior before, during, and after the veterinary visit. Alleviating stress at home before the visit to the veterinary office, will help reduce stress during the exam!  We’re here to help! Please let us know if you ever have any questions or concerns.