The research on feline diseases and treatments has traditionally lagged behind that of dogs. But now with an estimated 220 to 373 million pet cats around the world, it’s time our feline friends get the attention they deserve.

Hill’s Pet Nutrition recently published the inaugural 2025 World of the Cat Report, which showcases advances in feline diagnostics, treatments and nutrition.

In the past, veterinarians often treated cats like small dogs. Thankfully, they’ve learned that cats respond differently to drugs, some of which can even be toxic to feline patients.

Currently, only about 40% of cats — compared to over 80% of dogs — have annual veterinary visits. With more ways to make cats comfortable in the clinic, the goal is to even those numbers up.