The CATalyst Initiative
CATalyst is a national initiative to champion the cat in light of troubling statistics released by the American Veterinary Medical Association that show an increase in the cat population coupled with a decline in veterinary visits for cats.1 At the CATalyst Summit, held by the American Association of Feline Practitioners with underwriting from Pfizer Animal Health, key influentials from more than 30 leading organizations and companies gathered to discuss how to improve health care for felines, increase responsible pet ownership, enhance the stature of cats and enrich lives.
The action plan developed to respond to these statistics includes the following five elements:
- Continue to Collaborate Across all Channels
- Develop Feline Life-Stage Guidelines (for veterinarians and pet owners)
- Create Cat-Friendly Veterinary Practices
- Brand the Cat
- Produce a Consumer Awareness Campaign
As an immediate outcome of the Summit, the AAFP and the American Animal Hospital Association announced their plan to partner on developing feline life-stage wellness guidelines for veterinary professionals. Winn Feline Foundation will coordinate the writing of a consumer version of the guidelines underwritten by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
Please register to receive e-mail updates as CATalyst moves forward with its plan.
1 2007 U.S. Pet Ownership & Demographics Sourcebook
Post Summit Media Kit
Post-Summit Press Release
Cat Ownership Facts
Background
Jane Brunt Bio
Human Animal Bond JAVMA Release
Companies and organizations interested in sponsorships can contact Lea-Ann Germinder, APR, at 816-822-0192 or at lgerminder@germinder.com.