A YELVERTON veterinary clinic has proven it's gold top when it comes to cat care.

Drake Vets has been accredited as a Gold Standard Cat Friendly Clinic by International Cat Care, an award only held by a handful of vet practices in the country and the first in Devon and Cornwall.

The practice has separate dog and cat waiting areas and hospitalisation wards to reduce stress in feline patients and runs cat only appointment sessions. The cat waiting room and ward have been designed to make cats feel more relaxed, which helps promote well-being and improves recovery from illness.

There are three nominated 'cat advocates' at the practice who oversee the wellbeing of feline patients and ensure that they are continuing to receive the level of care that they require.

The cat friendly clinic scheme is an initiative, run by International Cat Care, to encourage veterinary practices to cater for the specific needs of cats when visiting the vets.

Cats generally do not enjoy travel, and are highly sensitive to the new sounds, smells and sights of an unusual environment.

They are very susceptible to stress, and require gentle handling and considerable attention to their requirements.

To meet the requirements of the Gold Standard Award, Drake Vets have demonstrated that they understand the unique needs of cats and that they have the facilities and equipment required to provide an excellent level of care for their patients.

Vet Emily Coombs said when the practice was built a few years ago it was designed with cats in mind: 'We wanted a separate ward and waiting room for cats because it has became increasingly apparent that cats hated going to the vets.

'Cats are not like dogs — they do not go to lots of different places all the time —they have their own territory and coming to the vets is very stressful for them. We wanted to make things as good as possible for them, so when we had an opportunity to build something specific for cats into the design of the building we went for it.

'We have 4,767 cats on our books and we are really proud of the high standard of care we give them.

'It is wonderful to be recognised by International Cat Care with this award.'