2022 AAFP/ISFM Cat Friendly Veterinary Interaction Guidelines: Approach and Handling Techniques. Issue 11 (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rodan, Ilona; Dowgray, Nathalie; Carney, Hazel C; Carozza, Ellen; Ellis, Sarah LH; Heath, Sarah; Niel, Lee; St Denis, Kelly; Taylor, Samantha
• Is Part Of: Journal of feline medicine and surgery. Volume 24:Issue 11(2022)
• Page Start: 1093
• Page End: 1132
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Cat Friendly Practice -- Cat Friendly Clinic -- behavioral needs -- feline emotions -- non-physical interactions -- physical interactions -- handling -- chemical restraint -- anxiolytic -- cooperative care; Cats -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Cats -- Surgery -- Periodicals; 636.8089
• DOI: 10.1177/1098612X221128760
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1098-612X

Abstract

Practical relevance: The '2022 AAFP/ISFM Cat Friendly Veterinary Interaction Guidelines: Approach and Handling Techniques' (hereafter the 'Cat Friendly Veterinary Interaction Guidelines') support veterinary professionals with feline interactions and handling to reduce the impact of fear and other protective (negative) emotions, in so doing enhancing feline welfare and In implementing these Guidelines, team satisfaction and cat caregiver confidence in the veterinary team will increase as the result of efficient examinations, better experience, more reliable diagnostic testing and improved feline wellbeing. Veterinary professionals will learn the importance of understanding and appropriately responding to the current emotional state of the cat and tailoring each visit to the individual. Clinical challenges: Cats have evolved with emotions and behaviors that are necessary for their survival as both a predator and prey species. A clinical setting and the required examinations and procedures to meet their physical health needs can result in behavioral responses to protective emotions. Cat friendly interactions require understanding, interpreting and appropriately responding to cats' emotional states and giving them a perceived sense of control while performing the required assessment. Evidence base: These Guidelines have been created by a Task Force of experts convened by the American Association of Feline Practitioners and the International Society of Feline Medicine, based on an extensive literature review and, where evidence is lacking, the authors' experience. Endorsements: These Guidelines have been endorsed by a number of groups and organizations, as detailed on page 1127 and atcatvets.com/interactions andicatcare.org/cat-friendly-guidelines .