TAKING A CAT-CENTRIC APPROACH

Cats are less likely to be brought to the clinic than their dog counterparts, which impacts the sort of state we end up seeing them in and then limits our treatment options.

– Dr Rachel Korman,
BVSc GPCertFelP FANZCVSc MRCVS

Making some simple changes that focus on maximizing the in-and out-of-clinic experience for cat and their owner can boost opportunities for improving preventative health. Dr Korman, BVSc GPCertFelP FANZCVSc MRCVS.
She shares her top practical tips on how to take a cat-centric approach, which has helped her teams as well as both cats and their owners within the clinic.

Insights from Dr Rachel Korman

Globally,

1. Get everyone ‘cat confident’ in your clinic

  • Boost cat handling expertise
  • Consider training sessions or a ‘buddy-system,’ pairing colleagues confident handling cats with those who need more support.

 

2. Preparing for a cat visit

  • Get to know the cat – identify cat- and owner-specific needs ahead of time and provide appropriate advice.
  • Help with transporting cats – offer advice on how to help cats feel more comfortable and recommend carriers which can help cats feel secure
  • Explore sedation – we find sedation can really help get cats into the clinic more calmly and that owners are very receptive.

 

3. Creating a calm clinic experience

  • Give cats places to hide – provide owners with a towel to cover their cage in the waiting area.
  • Get creative with bribery – for example, cat food on a towel to distract cats during procedures.

 

4. Minimise owner anxiety too

  • Actively listen – give owners time to ask questions and show them that you understand their struggles.
  • Tailor your recommendations – talk about which products and formulations could help owners medicate cats more easily.

 

Our aim is to strengthen the owner-cat bond as well as provide excellent clinical care. We as vets are well placed to facilitate that by focusing on what works for an individual cat and owner.”

Dr Rachel Korman,
BVSc GPCertFelP FANZCVSc MRCVS

Dr Korman is the head of the feline medicine service and cat friendly clinic at Veterinary Specialist Services in Brisbane with over 20 years of experience. She provides her expertise to the Feline Expert Panel, Journal of Feline


Medicine and Surgery, British Small Animal Veterinary Association of Feline Practice, Australian Heartworm Advisory Panel and she holds lectures across the globe.