Downers Grove Animal Hospital is a Cat Friendly Practice
The cat is king! And that’s why we have become a certified cat friendly practice!!! With cats being the most beloved pet in the country, there is a growing need to improve the healthcare and overall well-being of the feline population. Whether it’s a routine wellness exam or a special visit, the staff at Downers Grove Animal Hospital is committed to ensuring that your cat receives the best care. To further this dedication, we have recently implemented the Cat Friendly Practice (CFP) program to offer pet owners more at every phase of the cat’s life.
The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) pioneered the CFP program to provide a framework for creating a positive practice environment for cats, including medical care that supports the cat’s unique needs and the knowledgeable staff members who understand feline-friendly handling.
At Downers Grove Animal Hospital we incorporate cat friendly features into the physical environment of the practice including special waiting accommodations, feline-sensitive exam rooms and ward facilities, and equipment appropriate specifically for cats.
As the only AAFP certified cat friendly practice in Downers Grove, staff members approach cat care in a different manner. The staff has learned how to understand the needs of the cat and has been trained in alternative techniques to calm an anxious cat and ensure that we minimize anxiety during exams and procedures.
We have evaluated every aspect of the practice and its environment from the perspective of the cat, and can proudly say that from the minute they walk through the door, our patients and clients will be a part of a welcoming, comfortable experience that will ultimately lead to the improved health of our feline patients.
Getting Your Cat to The Veterinarian
Providing your cat with good health care, especially preventive health care, can allow her to live a longer, more comfortable life. However, this cannot happen unless you take your cat to see us routinely.
Many cats dislike going to the veterinarian, and that usually starts with the difficulty of getting your cat into the carrier. Once you’ve mastered how to get your cat into their carrier, the entire veterinary visit is usually less stressful.
Here are some great tips on how to make your trip to visit is less stressful.
Health Risks for your Cat
Cats are America’s #1 pet. There are 86.4 million pet cats in the United States, compared with 78.2 million pet dogs, making cats the most popular pet. A third of U.S. households own at least one cat and more than half of those own at least two.
Cats need regular veterinary care, including wellness exams at least once a year. Cats age faster than you do, so an annual exam for them is similar to you visiting your doctor or dentist every four to five years. Prevention is always safer and less expensive than treatment, and is why your cat needs to be seen at least once a year by your veterinarian.
Your cat could be sick and you may not know it until it’s too late. Learn to watch for subtle signs of sickness and how to know when to contact your veterinarian.