Cat Friendly Accreditation

The International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) Cat-Friendly Accreditation is a globally recognised certification awarded to veterinary clinics that excel in providing exceptional care to cats.

This accreditation is a testament to our dedication to feline health and well-being. To learn more about ISFM and the Cat Friendly Clinic program, click here.

Receiving the Gold Level Cat-Friendly Accreditation signifies that Eastside Veterinary Clinic has gone above and beyond to ensure cat-friendly practices and facilities.

Our clinic adheres to a set of stringent guidelines designed to promote feline health and well-being while minimising stress throughout their vet visits.

These guidelines encompass various aspects of our clinic, including:

1. Stress Reduction: Cats can be fearful and anxious in unfamiliar environments and situations. That's why we place a strong emphasis on minimising stress at every stage of your cat's veterinary experience, from their time at the clinic, during travel to and from the clinic, and even before and after their visit at home.
2. Tailored Care: We understand the importance of developing relationships with all pets, allowing us to earn and build their trust. We customise our approach for each cat, resulting in more positive outcomes and ensuring their individual needs are always met.
3. Cat-Only Areas & Equipment: Within our clinic, we have dedicated spaces and equipment used exclusively for cats. Cat-only areas include a waiting area, consultation room, treatment area, and hospital ward. Minimising a cat's exposure to and interactions with other animals ensures a calm, quiet, and safe environment.
4. Cat Comfort: Our clinic employs a range of techniques and tools to create a tranquil and comfortable environment for our feline friends. These methods include using calming pheromone diffusers and sprays, privacy screens, cat carrier covers, positive reinforcements, hiding spots, cubbies, shelves, and other enrichments. When appropriate, our veterinarians can also prescribe medications to ensure that our feline visitors remain happy and relaxed throughout their visit.
5. Staff Training: Our entire team undergoes specialised training to handle cats with care and gentleness, understanding their unique needs and behaviours. Our veterinarians and staff are required to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in feline healthcare and medicine, ensuring that our patients receive the best diagnostic and treatment options available.
6. Fear-Free Techniques: Our staff have undergone extensive Fear-Free training to ensure that pets have the most pleasant experience possible. Our approach prioritizes your cat’s comfort and well-being by maintaining calm and quiet environments, employing gentle and low-stress handling methods, and utilising only positive reinforcements.
7. Feline Health Advocacy: We have dedicated staff members known as 'Cat Advocates' who ensure our cat-friendly standards are upheld and are available to discuss our accreditation with clients. Additionally, our entire team is knowledgeable and available to provide resources, information, and advice on various feline topics such as nutrition, behaviour, and preventative care, ensuring the best possible care for your cat.