Last week, I received the following press release with updated information from the Board of Directors. I’ve always been a huge fan of AAFP, and they’ve been a longtime supporter of Cat Writers’ Association. Now for their 50th anniversary year, they’ve updated their name to the Feline Veterinary Medical Assocation.

Over the past fifty years, this Association has strived to improve the health and wellbeing of cats through high standards of practice, continuing education, and evidence-based medicine. We are grateful to our past and current volunteers whose contributions over five decades of leadership and dedication have brought us to this milestone anniversary year. Today, we announce the next stage in our Association’s evolution. We are honored, proud, and excited to announce that the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) is now the Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FelineVMA).

Why is AAFP Changing to FelineVMA?

This Association has always been a welcoming place for all veterinary professionals who work with cats. Our membership is comprised of veterinarians, veterinary technicians, practice managers, assistants, support staff, students, and more. The majority of our members work in mixed, small animal practices, as well as in feline-only practices, academia, specialty practices, relief work, shelters, and more. All of these veterinary team members are valued Members of our veterinary community.

This change not only honors our rich history but also positions us to better serve the current and future diverse needs of the feline veterinary community.

The AAFP’s Leadership utilized Task Forces, focus groups, member feedback, and industry input in thoughtful discussions about changes to the name and logo for nearly two years. Some key areas of discussion included:

• A name to represent all Members including veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and all support staff.
• A recognizable name associated with excellence in veterinary medicine that puts ‘feline’ first and foremost.
• A more modern, welcoming graphic for our logo.
• Recognizing the importance of all our Members, including those throughout the world.

Over the next few months, the FelineVMA team will be updating the many documents, resources, and web pages with the new brand. The catvets.com website name is not changing.

The Mission Continues

This watershed moment for feline healthcare and wellbeing reflects the Association’s strategic direction inclusive of the entire feline veterinary community. As the Association embarks on this new chapter, we remain committed to supporting our Members in improving the health and wellbeing of cats through high standards of practice, continuing education, and evidence-based medicine. With a refreshed brand and enhanced technological capabilities, the FelineVMA is poised to lead the way in feline medicine and education for the next 50 years and beyond. Join us in celebrating this exciting transformation and the bright future ahead for all those dedicated to the care and wellbeing of cats.

I love hearing from you, so please share comments and questions. Do you have an ASK AMY question you’d like answered? Do you have a new kitten and need answers? Stay up to date on all the latest just subscribe the blog, “like” me on Facebook, and sign up for Pet Peeves newsletter.

Stay up to date with the latest book giveaways and appearances related to my September Day pet-centric THRILLERS WITH BITE!  Amy Shojai, CABC is a certified cat & dog behavior consultant, a consultant to the pet industry, and the award-winning author of 35+ pet-centric books and Thrillers with Bite! Oh, and she loves bling!