Feline Healthcare Goes to the Dogs
Craig S. Wallace
Strategist/Executive/Leader connecting companies with capital | Investing and advising early/mid-stage companies | Supporting entrepreneurs in animal health and agribusiness
Cats are a beloved and integral part of many households, but unfortunately, the current veterinary healthcare system is not always equipped to meet their unique needs. The industry has long been geared towards the care of dogs, often ignoring the behaviors and characteristics that make cats such special creatures. As a result, many cats are not receiving the quality care they deserve.
One major issue is a lack of attention to the very different needs of cats. Many owners struggle to find a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about feline health, or who is willing to take the time to address their pet's specific needs. Telehealth has the potential to greatly expand access to care for cats, allowing owners to consult with veterinarians remotely and receive guidance on their pet's care. Greater access would widen the top of the funnel bringing more feline patients into the healthcare system.
In conjunction with telecare, facial recognition AI is an innovative tool that could greatly improve the delivery of healthcare to felines. By using advanced algorithms to analyze the facial expressions and behaviors of cats, this technology can help veterinarians and owners more accurately determine pain and diagnose disease without the immediate need for a stressful car ride to the veterinary hospital.
Along with these cat-friendly healthcare technologies, imagine a nationwide feline healthcare provider network. This network would connect owners with veterinarians and other professionals who are knowledgeable about feline health and can provide the specialized care cats need. Such a network would not only improve access to care, but it would also help to standardize the quality of care cats receive, ensuring they receive the best possible care no matter where they live.
Overall, it's clear feline healthcare needs help. A model can be designed for cats ...not so different from pediatric care in human health. Technology, innovative solutions, and a more patient-centered approach can ensure our cats receive the quality care they deserve.
VCA Cat Hospital of Chicago (Associate Veterinarian, former owner)
2 年Great article and very spot-on.? We've come a long way but cats still get the short end of the stick in many ways if you look at the big picture.??
Very insightful! Now if we can just start recruiting veterinarians and technicians into feline medicine, we might be able to make it happen.
Feline Thought Leader ?? | Principal Consultant at Crain | Animal Health Entrepreneur | Advancing Feline Medicine, Welfare, and Innovation | Cat Caregiver Advocate
2 年Great article!
Indeed! ?????? #catfriendly #telehealth #catcare
Experienced Marketing & Strategy Professional
2 年Excellent article and insightful vision of what is possible with so many emerging technologies. Craig the Cat man? ??