_Photography-_Heartland_Animal_Hospital_IA_(299_of_326)In order to be considered for “Gold Status”, practices have to incorporate the optimum level of “Cat Friendly” criteria. This includes the following areas:

  • Active membership in the American Association of Feline Practitioners
  • Feline specific continuing education for all veterinarians
  • All staff that work with or handle cats must be familiar with the AAFP “Guide to Creating a Cat Friendly Practice”
  • Enhanced communication protocols for clients
  • Provide a clean, well maintained, odor free environment
  • A cat only waiting area, including benches above floor level for carriers to be placed
  • Training in minimizing cat stress during veterinary visits
  • Exam rooms that are dedicated for cats
  • A quiet, calm cat-only ward is available
  • Pain management protocols as recommended by the AAFP
  • Separate surgical and dental suites
  • In house laboratory equipment