Choosing the Right Veterinarian for Your Cat

Your cat is a valued member of your family, so choosing a veterinary office for your pet is just as important as picking a health care provider for you and your spouse or children. There are several qualities common to both good physicians and good veterinarians, including education, specialties, experience, environment and bedside manner, among others, and considering some of these characteristics will make your decision much easier.

In addition, finding a veterinarian is not just a decision to be made for the pets that are already part of your family. If you have no pets and are considering getting a cat or are already on a waiting list, or you are moving to another city and need to change clinics, you’ll want to have a veterinarian lined up in advance.

The first decision you’ll need to make is what type of veterinary office to take your pet to. Opening your phone book to the business directory, you’ll probably find several veterinary practices in your town specializing in a variety of different animals, such as those listed below:

• Does your clinic offer emergency services?

• What kind of credentials do the veterinarians at your clinic have?

• What kind of wait time is normally involved when scheduling an appointment?

• What kind of payment do you accept (billing, credit card, immediate pay)?

• Do you offer any additional services aside from exams, such as dental care, surgeries, lab testing, or nutrition and behavior counseling?

• Can your facility provide specialists or refer clients to them?

• Is your office affiliated with the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)?

• What kind of equipment does your facility have on-site (x-ray machines, surgical facilities, etc.)?

• Do you offer free tours or consultations?

• Are there any types of conditions that your office is not comfortable in treating?

• How many years of experience do your doctors have?