Cat Friendly Practice
APPOINTMENTMake your cat’s next vet visit stress free!
Happy Valley Veterinary Hospital is a Cat Friendly Practice. The Cat Friendly Practice® program is leading the movement to make veterinary care less stressful for cats and their caregivers.
Established by the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and the International Society for Feline Medicine (ISFM), the Cat Friendly Practice® program is a global initiative designed to elevate care for cats by reducing the stress for the cat, caregiver, and also the entire veterinary team.
What can you expect at a Cat Friendly Practice?
Cat-Friendly Attitude
The veterinary team is trained to speak softly, avoid direct eye contact with your cat, and move slowly. They know these actions help keep your cat calm and feeling in control. If any team member sees your cat becoming stressed or anxious, they will pause the check-up, let your cat take a break, and resume when she is calmer.
Educated Staff
Each Cat Friendly Practice® has at least one Cat Advocate who ensures all team members are trained to understand and handle them gently and respectfully. They can answer all of your questions and explain the specific cat-friendly features at the practice.
Gentle Handling
Team members use a u201cless is moreu201d approach when examining your cat, without using heavy restraint which could frighten, stress, or arouse your cat. Your cat’s check-up may take place on the table, floor, or in the veterinarian’s lap wherever your cat is most comfortable.
Advice
Cat Advocates provide you with feline-specific tips, like how to get your cat comfortable with the carrier before the visit. They can also advise you on how to transport your cat to the veterinary office in a way to reduce stress associated with the visit for you both.
Contact Info
Phone: 503-395-1649
Fax: 503-676-3288
Hours
Saturday-Sunday: Closed
Location
15957 SE Happy Valley Town Center Dr.
Happy Valley, OR 97086
We are located next door to the New Seasons!
Schedule Your Pet’s Wellness Exam in Happy Valley, OR
Protecting your pet’s dental health is an investment in comfort, longevity, and overall quality of life. Annual pet exams and professional cleanings help prevent pain, reduce health risks, and support lasting wellness.
Whether your pet needs a routine dental evaluation, professional pet dental cleaning, or advanced dental treatment, Happy Valley Veterinary Hospital is here to help. Contact our team today to schedule your pet’s dental exam and take the next step toward a healthier, happier smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Wellness Exams
Can pets have dental pain without showing obvious symptoms?
Yes, pets can have dental pain even when they continue eating, playing, or acting mostly normal. Dogs and cats often hide discomfort, so dental exams can help identify gum inflammation, fractured teeth, loose teeth, or other painful problems before symptoms become easier to notice at home.
Why is tartar buildup a concern for dogs and cats?
Tartar buildup can trap bacteria along the gumline and contribute to inflammation, infection, bad breath, and periodontal disease. Once tartar hardens on the teeth, it usually cannot be removed with brushing alone and may require a professional dental cleaning.
Can dental care help prevent tooth loss in pets?
Yes, regular dental care can help reduce the risk of tooth loss by identifying and treating oral health concerns earlier. Dental exams, cleanings, and X-rays can help your veterinarian find gum disease, damaged teeth, or hidden issues before they progress.
Are dental problems more common as pets get older?
Dental problems can become more common as pets age because plaque, tartar, and gum changes can build up over time. Senior pets may need closer dental monitoring to help manage discomfort, infection risk, and changes that can affect eating or overall quality of life.
How can I tell if my pet may need a dental exam sooner than planned?
Your pet may need a dental exam sooner if you notice bad breath, red or bleeding gums, drooling, chewing on one side, dropping food, pawing at the mouth, facial swelling, or reluctance to eat harder food or treats. These changes can point to oral pain or dental disease that should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
