World of Animals at Elkins Park Veterinary Hospital Implements Cat Friendly Practice Program
Cat Friendly Designation Elevates Cat Care
Elkins Park PA– The cat is king. With cats being the most beloved pet in the country, there is a growing
need to improve the health care and overall well-being of the feline population. Whether it’s a routine
checkup or special visit, the staff at World of Animals Elkins Park is committed to ensuring that cats get
the best care. And, to further its dedication, the clinic recently implemented the Cat Friendly Practice
(CFP) program to offer pet owners more at every phase of the cat’s health care process. “We are
committed to providing quality care to our feline patients,” said Laura Tancredi DVM of World of
Animals at Elkins Park. “When we heard about the CFP program, we knew it was time to take a fresh
look at the practice to determine what could be done to make the veterinary visit more positive for cats
and cat owners.” Program Puts Cats First The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP)
pioneered the CFP program to provide a framework for creating a positive practice environment for
cats, including medical care that supports the cat’s unique needs and knowledgeable staff members
who understand feline-friendly handling. “The AAFP realizes that cats present unique challenges before,
during, and after a veterinary visit,” said Dr. Susan Little, DVM, DABVP (Feline) & President, American
Association of Feline Practitioners. “Some things that can cause a cat anxiety include aversion to
carriers, sensitivity to new sights and smells, and the added stress of an unfamiliar location or
experience. Understanding these obstacles helped to shape the CFP program and its dedication to
putting the needs of cats first.” At a CFP-designated clinic, the veterinary staff incorporates cat-friendly
features into the physical environment of the practice including special waiting rooms or waiting
accommodations; feline-sensitive examination rooms and ward facilities, and equipment appropriate
specifically for cats. Staff members also approach cat care in a different manner. The staff learns how to
understand the needs of the cat such as how to interpret a cat’s facial expression and body language.
Furthermore, the staff is well-trained in alternate techniques to calm an anxious cat and ensure that
exams and procedures do not escalate anxiety.
World of Animals at Elkins Park Veterinary Hospital boosts Cat Care “We evaluated every aspect of the
practice and its environment from the perspective of the cat,” Dr. Tancredi said. “We can proudly say
that from the minute they walk through the door, our patients and clients will be part of a welcoming,
comfortable experience that will ultimately lead to the improved health of our feline patients.” For more
information about World of Animals at Elkins Park, visit us at
www.veterinarianelkinspark.com or call
215-635-2700. World of Animals Veterinary Hospital at Elkins Park is located at 8023 Old York Road in
Elkins Park just off of Church Road. We are a full service veterinary hospital serving cats and dogs. We
have digital radiography, in-house laboratory allowing our doctors to diagnose sick pets quickly and
efficiently. We offer medical, dental and surgical care as well as routine wellness