Our Cat Friendly Practice
A veterinary experience designed around cats
We’re delighted that Sage Vets is a Gold Cat Friendly Clinic, accredited through the International Cat Care Cat Friendly Clinic programme.
Gold is the highest level of accreditation. It recognises practices that have made a significant commitment to providing facilities, equipment and care specifically designed around the needs of cats.
For us, being cat friendly reflects our commitment to providing veterinary care tailored to the unique needs of cats — from the moment they arrive to the moment they go home.
Why does being cat friendly matter?
A visit to the vet can be stressful for cats — from travelling in their carrier to unfamiliar sights, sounds, smells and handling.
Our team understands feline behaviour and aims to recognise signs of fear or anxiety, adapting our approach wherever possible.
What does Gold accreditation mean for your cat?
A dedicated cat consultation room
Gold-accredited clinics provide facilities specifically designed for feline patients, including dedicated consultation facilities and appropriate time for examinations and discussions.
We take the time to understand each cat as an individual and provide gentle, respectful handling throughout their visit.
A calm, cat-only hospital ward
Sage Vets has a dedicated cat-only hospital ward, separate from our dog facilities.
Keeping cats away from the sights, sounds and smells of dogs helps create a quieter, calmer environment for cats receiving treatment or recovering with us.
Gold accreditation means a commitment to ongoing care
Achieving Gold status is an important achievement, but our commitment doesn't stop there.
We continually look for ways to improve feline healthcare and make visits as comfortable as possible — whether your cat is here for a routine health check, investigation, surgery or hospital care.
We’re proud to offer a practice where cats are not simply treated as small dogs, but cared for as cats.
Helping you make visits easier
You can also help your cat have a more positive veterinary experience.
Getting your cat comfortable with their carrier, travelling securely and calmly, and allowing them time to settle can all help.
If you’re worried about bringing your cat to see us, please talk to our team. We’re happy to offer advice on making their visit as comfortable as possible.
A gentler approach to every visit
Every cat is different. Some are confident and curious; others may be nervous or easily overwhelmed.
We aim to:
Handle cats gently and respectfully.
Give them time to settle where possible.
Pay attention to their behaviour and body language.
Minimise unnecessary stress and noise.
Adapt our approach to the individual cat.
Keep cats separate from dogs wherever possible.