​​If you’re a cat lover, you know that your feline friends are extremely particular about who they trust and how they behave toward strangers. This means that a trip to the vet can be an incredibly stressful experience—unless you take the time to find a cat-friendly vet.
 
What exactly is a cat-friendly vet, though, and will visiting one with your pet really make your cat more comfortable with the process? To start, it’s important to understand the specific markers of a cat-friendly veterinary service.
 
Understanding Cats’ Characters
 
All too often, vet practices focus on caring for dogs and other larger animals while downplaying the importance of making felines comfortable, too. That’s why Cat-Friendly Practices were born—to give cats the consideration they deserve. Because cats are so particular, this concept is more complicated than it sounds, and takes a fair amount of work on the part of the veterinarian.
 
A cat-friendly vet not only works to understand the specific ailments that affect cats, but also ensures that their facilities meet the specific needs of cats. What’s more, these vets take the time to understand how cats behave, and how to manage that behavior tactfully. All of this culminates in a more relaxing and gentle experience for your cat.
 
How a Cat-Friendly Vet Makes All The Difference
 
Just like with people, if your cat feels cared for gently and empathetically, it’s much less likely to have a negative reaction to its vet visit. A cat-friendly vet will keep your cat calm and comfortable throughout your entire visit, which makes your life easier when it comes time to visit the vet again.
 
Cats are smarter than they’re often given credit for, and the last thing you want is to have a cat on your hands that’s unwilling to cooperate with the vet when they’re genuinely in need of care. The best way to avoid this is to take your cat to a vet that will make them comfortable right from the start. Do some research into cat-friendly vets in your area, and you’ll be amazed by the difference that it makes.
 
Our staff is trained to reduce stress in cats from the moment they walk in the door. A few of the strategies we utilize are low-stress handling techniques, strategic towel wrapping, Feliway pheromone, and  a dedicated cat-only exam room. Helping keep your cat’s stress to a minimum is our highest priority.
 
No veterinarian wants to give your cat a lacking experience, but many of them simply don’t have the tools and knowledge to provide a cat-friendly practice. If you’re looking for the best possible care for your feline friend, visit us and witness the difference. 

​February – Pet Dental Health Month Is Here!

It’s February, and that means that dental pet health month has arrived! Routine dental care is an important part of your pet’s overall health and wellbeing. Unfortunately, it’s something that’s all too often overlooked. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of periodontal disease by the age of 3.

So what can you do to help your furry friend? Your pet should be examined by the veterinarian at a yearly minimum, to detect problems early. Why, you ask? If left untreated, poor dental health can cause damage to the pet’s teeth, roots, bones, and mouth, and can lead to abscesses and infection that may spread to the heart, liver, and kidneys. Have your pet checked sooner if you observe any of the following warning signs, as they may be indicative of a more serious problem:

• Bad breath
• Discolored teeth
• Poor appetite
• Drooling
• Dropping food
• Redness of gums
• Loose or broken teeth
• Tenderness and/or bleeding in or around mouth
• Swelling in/around mouth

 

Early detection and treatment of oral health problems are of utmost importance. Periodontal problems can cause severe pain and illness for your pet. Think about it – how would you feel if you never brushed your teeth? Our pets can often be stoic, and it may be difficult to tell that they’re experiencing pain until the problem has progressed. Your best bet is to schedule an appointment and prevent the problems before they start!

Okay, but you may be thinking to yourself – “what else can I do for my pet’s teeth – right now?” Getting them evaluated and treated at the vet’s office regularly is imperative, but there’s even more you can do! Brushing your pet’s teeth is the best option for providing your pet with dental care at home. (Just make sure you use pet-safe toothpaste! Human products are not pet-safe). However, some cats and dogs will not tolerate a foreign object in their mouth if they are not used to being brushed. That’s why we sell products such as dental foods, dental chews (CET and Oravet), water additives and dental wipes, to help you care for your furry friend. These products keep plaque and tartar at bay, freshen your pet’s breath, and provide a easy and safe way to participate in your pet’s health care on a daily basis.

Here’s a 3-minute video showing how to brush your pet’s teeth.  

Happy National Pet Dental Health month!