10 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Veterinarian for Your Cat

Finding the right veterinarian for your cat can be a challenge. Whether preparing for your first vet visit for a kitten or searching for a cat-friendly vet clinic, asking the right questions can make a huge difference. Visits to the vet can be stressful for cats, so choosing a practice that suits your needs and your cat’s personality is essential.

These 10 questions will help you select the perfect veterinarian for your cat, ensuring both you and your cat have the best possible experience.

1. Can I Schedule My Appointment During a Quiet Time?

The vet office is noisy since barking dogs and other animals are tense. Cats, in particular, are noise- and stress-sensitive animals, so it’s best to ask them if you can schedule your session at a non-peak hour. This helps keep your cat stress-free and tension-free.

Benefits of a Quiet-Hour Appointment

• Less stress for your cat
• Shorter wait times
• More focused care from the vet

2. Is My Cat at a Healthy Weight?

Obesity is a persistent problem in many pets, such as cats. Over 50% of cats in the US are overweight, and this can lead to severe health problems. When at the vet, ask about your cat’s weight and whether it is within the normal range. If your cat is overweight, ask your veterinarian to recommend a weight reduction and diet modification plan.

Signs Your Cat May Be Overweight

• Difficulty grooming themselves
• Sluggishness or less activity
• Difficulty jumping or climbing

3. Should I Be Concerned About This Change in My Cat’s Behavior?

Cats are masters at hiding illness, so even slight changes in behavior can mean that all is not well. From drinking more water to hiding in odd places to changing their food intake, these signs can be indicative of underlying health problems such as kidney disease or diabetes. Don’t be afraid to ask the vet if such behaviors should be investigated.

Cat owners might have to look for the following Behavioral Changes:

• Increased thirst or urination
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Increased vocalization or aggression

4. Does My Cat Need Vaccinations?

Vaccinations are crucial for protecting your cat against diseases that can be serious or even fatal. Regularly updating your cat’s shots is one of the best ways to ensure they remain healthy. Ask your veterinarian if your cat is up to date on all necessary vaccinations, including rabies, feline distemper, and feline leukemia.

Core Vaccines for Cats:

• Vaccine Protects Against
• Rabies is a Fatal viral disease, required by law in many areas
• Feline Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease
• Feline Leukemia (FeLV) is a severe viral infection that affects the immune system

5. When Should We Schedule a Dental Cleaning?

Feline dental care often receives short shrift, but it is just as vital as any other aspect of their treatment. Cats develop dental disease just like anyone else, leading to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Question your vet when your cat is due for a professional cleaning, and don’t miss routine maintenance to stay healthy at home:

• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Difficulty eating or chewing
• Excessive drooling

6. Can I Give My Cat Human Medication?

Occasionally, we would give our pets human medicine to make them feel better. Yet many human drugs are dangerous or even toxic to cats. Always consult with your veterinarian first before giving any medication to your cat, even over-the-counter painkillers or cold medications.

The following are some drugs that are poisonous to cats:

• Tylenol Liver damage can be fatal
• Ibuprofen can cause kidney failure
• Aspirin is Dangerous for cats, especially in large doses

7. Does My Cat Need a Blood Test?

Blood tests are an excellent tool for identifying health problems early. They can detect kidney disease, liver problems, or diabetes before symptoms become severe. If your cat is due for an exam, ask your vet whether a blood test would be beneficial, especially if it is over 7 years old.

Here’s why blood tests are essential:

• Detect underlying health issues early
• Establish a health baseline for future reference.
• Monitor chronic conditions

8. What Are These Lumps and Bumps?

It’s normal for cats to get bumps or lumps as they age, but not all of them are benign. Some might be cysts, but others are signs of cancer. Always refer any new bumps or growths on your cat’s body to the vet and ask for their expert opinion.

A cat owner should be concerned about lumps when:

• Rapid growth of the lump
• If the lump feels complex or irregular
• If your cat shows signs of pain or discomfort

9. When Should We Schedule a Follow-Up Appointment?

Once your cat has received treatment or a wellness exam, schedule a follow-up visit before leaving the clinic. This could be for routine check-ups or to ensure ongoing treatments work effectively. Scheduling the next visit while you’re still at the clinic helps you stay on track with your cat’s health care plan.

Follow-up appointments are important because:

• Keeps you on top of your cat’s health
• Helps manage ongoing treatments or medications
• Ensures that any changes in your cat’s health are monitored closely

10. Can You Explain My Bill?

Vet bills can sometimes be daunting, particularly when confronted with unexpected expenses. Don’t ask your vet to explain the fees in detail. A good vet will be more than willing to itemize the costs and explain why specific services or procedures were required.

Common Services That May Appear on Your Vet Bill:

• Wellness exams
• Vaccinations
• Blood tests and diagnostics
• Medications and treatments

Veterinary Jobs and Their Role in Your Cat’s Care

When choosing a veterinarian, it’s also important to consider the veterinary clinic as a whole – not just the vet, but the entire team that will be working with your cat. The veterinary profession is full of specialized roles that play a crucial part in ensuring your pet receives the best care possible. Here are some key veterinary jobs you may encounter during your visit:

1. Veterinary Technicians (Vet Techs)

Veterinary technicians are skilled professionals who support veterinarians in diagnosing and treating animals. They perform a variety of tasks, including taking X-rays, drawing blood, administering medications, and assisting in surgeries. They are often the first to interact with your cat, helping make the visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

2. Veterinary Assistants

Veterinary assistants are the support staff that help with tasks such as cleaning the clinic, preparing exam rooms, and assisting with client communication. While they may not perform medical procedures, their role is crucial in ensuring that the clinic runs smoothly. They can also offer valuable information about your cat’s care, like post-appointment instructions or how to manage medications.

3. Practice Managers and Office Staff

The administrative team is often the first point of contact when scheduling an appointment or discussing your cat’s care. They play an essential role in making your visit as efficient and seamless as possible. Practice managers ensure that the clinic operates smoothly, overseeing both the medical and administrative sides of the practice.

Conclusion

Selecting a veterinarian is a significant decision, one that has a direct impact on your cat’s well-being and happiness. By asking these 10 questions, you’re getting yourself and your cat on the right track towards the best care possible. If you’re seeking the best cat vet near you or searching for a cat-friendly veterinary clinic, these questions will help guide you in the right direction.

The proper vet will not only take care of your cat’s physical well-being but also strive to build a trusting and empathetic relationship with you as a pet owner. So don’t be shy to ask questions, get to know your vet, and have your cat’s health in good hands.

Don’t forget that what happens after the vet visit matters too – like keeping your cat calm, entertained, and healthy at home. You’ll find plenty of practical tips in my Indoor Cat Care guide.

About This Article

This article, “10 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Veterinarian for Your Cat”, was written by guest contributor Sara Williams.

Sara Williams is a professional content writer specializing in animal healthcare and veterinary topics. Her work provides pet owners and veterinarians with insightful, well-researched information to improve animal care.

In her own words, she writes “to empower people with knowledge and make life better for animals everywhere.”