FelineVMA Introduces Cat Friendly Resource Center to Enhance Veterinary Care for Cats

The Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FelineVMA) has launched a free Cat Friendly Resource Center aimed at improving veterinary care for cats, who often receive less routine and preventive treatment than dogs. The initiative seeks to address barriers to care, enhance the veterinary experience, and support better health outcomes for felines.

Research from the CATalyst Council indicates an increase in cat ownership and veterinary visits, yet many cats still do not receive adequate care due to challenges like transportation issues, stress during appointments, and misconceptions about feline healthcare.

Heather O’Steen, CEO of FelineVMA, emphasized the opportunity for veterinary teams to engage more cats in regular care by understanding their experiences during visits. She noted that by making adjustments that reduce feline distress, veterinary teams can foster stronger relationships with pet owners and improve overall care.

Studies have shown that veterinary practices with the Cat Friendly Practice® designation see more visits per feline patient and conduct more diagnostic testing. This approach helps identify health issues earlier, facilitating timely treatment.

Hazel Carney, President of FelineVMA, mentioned that cats often express fear or discomfort in subtle ways. By considering the cat's perspective during each veterinary visit, teams can enhance communication and care. The new resources will help practitioners better recognize feline emotions and behaviors and implement strategies to reduce stress in clinical settings.

The Resource Center offers concise tips, handouts, reference materials, and detailed guides covering various topics, such as adapting handling practices, minimizing distress, and improving communication with caregivers.

Ashlie Saffire, the Immediate Past President of FelineVMA, stated that being Cat Friendly does not require a complete practice overhaul; instead, small changes can significantly improve veterinary visits for cats.

This Resource Center is part of the wider Cat Friendly Campaign, which promotes feline healthcare education and awareness. Veterinary teams can access the Resource Center at catvets.com/CatFriendly. Additionally, they can pursue role-specific training through the Cat Friendly Certificate Program or apply for the Cat Friendly Practice® designation at catvets.com/cfp.

For further insights into optimizing feline veterinary care, FelineVMA will host a free webinar titled “Elevate the Feline Experience: Implementing Optimal Cat Friendly Care” on October 20, 2026.