Shipston Vets introduces happy hour for cats

Shipston Veterinary Centre closes its doors to dogs to help make a visit to the vet as stress-free as possible for tense tabbies and timid tortoiseshells.

Vet Victoria Organ said the cat-only clinics are already proving popular with clients.

She said: “Cats can come into the practice on any day of the week, but some are particularly worried by a trip to the vet and the presence or even smell of dogs can unsettle them.

“All the positive changes we’ve introduced are helping to ensure a visit to the vet’s is calm and relaxing, for pets and their owner.”

Shipston Vets has achieved Silver Cat Friendly status (Image: VetPartners)

The feline-friendly sessions run from 12 noon until 1pm every Monday and Tuesday at the practice on West Street.

Cat owners can book in their furry friends for routine boosters, diagnosis and treatment, while nurses will be on hand to offer services such as claw clips and kitten checks.

To create a haven for kitties, the consultation rooms are cleaned, litter trays put out and patients allowed to explore the space and hop onto desks and window sills.

Shipston Vets have achieved Silver Cat Friendly Status with the International Society for Feline Medicine.

The changes are part of a major investment funded by VetPartners, the larger veterinary group Shipston Vets is part of.

The waiting area has been given a refresh, the nursing team has been expanded, and new equipment has been purchased, including laparoscopic kit for performing keyhole spays and a dental X-ray machine for advanced dental care.

Clinical director Julie Lawrence said: “We are very excited and proud to have made these improvements so we can continue to provide excellent clinical care for our patients.

“As well as equipping the practice with the latest veterinary equipment, we have modernised the space to make it more comfortable for pets and their owners, and also create a better working environment for our team.

“We’ve received lots of positive feedback from clients since the improvements have been made.

“Having expanded our team, we are now in a position to take on new clients and patients, so we’re looking forward to welcoming you through our doors.”

Shipston Vets has a separate waiting area for cats (Image: VetPartners)

The cat happy hour and investments to the clinic have helped the practice achieve General Practice Standards accreditation by the RCVS, the regulatory body of veterinary practices, and Silver Cat Friendly Status with the International Society for Feline Medicine.