Beginnings
SmartCat had its beginnings twenty years ago when Betsy Lipscomb, the founder and president of Cats International, gathered old wooden fence posts from her farm in Wisconsin and gave them to cat owners to use for scratching posts. The posts were very popular and over the years were improved with the addition of sisal rope and a sturdy base.
After several years of volunteering for a local humane society and caring for hundreds of cats, Betsy realized that the popular practice of declawing (partial digital amputation) was detrimental to cats, both physically and psychologically. In many cases declawing resulted in more serious behavior problems such as inappropriate elimination and biting problems.
Cats International
Knowing that behavioral problems are the number one killer of pets in this country, Betsy started a free behavior counseling service that is known as Cats International (www.catsinternational.org). Cats International is a reliable resource for intelligent and practical solutions for solving as well as preventing difficult behavior and training problems. Between calls to the behavior hotline and hits on their website, Cats International receives thousands of contacts every month.
The Dream
Betsy dreamed of creating a company that could produce and market superior products for cats. She recognized the need for products that would satisfy cats’ natural instincts and meet their mental and physical needs--thereby eliminating many common behavior problems.
Our Mission
SmartCat was conceived with the unique mission to provide products that are specifically designed to enhance the quality of life for cats by providing for their behavioral needs. This mission is what sets SmartCat™ apart from other companies. SmartCat™ products, with their high quality design and construction, encourage the mental and physical stimulation of cats while meeting the needs of both cats and their humans. The products are designed by feline behavior experts and all are widely tested and approved before reaching the market.
SmartCat Today
SmartCat’s extensive manufacturing capabilities have now taken the farmhouse kitchen operation to new heights. The mission, however, is still the same—to provide superior products that will improve the quality of life for cats and their owners.
SmartCat is proud to be associated with Cats International. A portion of the profits from the sale of SmartCat products will be donated to Cats International to support their vital educational services.