New partnership brings AI-powered cat health assessments to fear free veterinary clinics

A young cat frolics in the grass.
(Photo courtesy Bigstock.com)

Calgary-based vet-tech firm Sylvester.ai has announced a new partnership with Fear Free®, an organization known for its pet-centered approach to reducing stress in veterinary environments. This alliance aims to transform how feline health and comfort are monitored, both in clinics and at home.

Sylvester.ai’s technology harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to interpret subtle facial expressions and body language in cats. Through a smartphone app, veterinary professionals and caregivers can snap a photo of a cat and receive an instant assessment of potential discomfort or early signs of health issues. The goal is to support earlier intervention and improve quality of life for feline patients.

“We created our technology to help cats tell us what they may need to live a long, happy life. Fear Free Certified Veterinary Practices are a natural fit as they already understand the nuanced nature of cats and how to ensure a positive veterinary visit,” says Susan Groeneveld, CEO of Sylvester.ai.

Fear Free’s network of Certified Veterinary Practices will now have access to this AI-powered tool, further enhancing their commitment to low-stress, high-compassion pet care.

“This strategic alliance with Sylvester.ai reinforces our commitment to delivering tools and education that elevate low-stress veterinary care,” said Jennifer Merlo, DVM, VP Veterinary Affairs at Fear Free. “By integrating AI into feline care protocols, our Certified Veterinary Practices can detect discomfort earlier and build even stronger bonds with cat caregivers.”

The collaboration represents a shared mission to elevate feline healthcare through innovation, education, and empathy—offering veterinary teams powerful new tools to understand and support their feline patients more effectively than ever before.