How to know if a vet is right for your pet?

Question

I recently relocated and a friend recommended a vet to me. My cat has her first appt. tommorow. They sound pretty good. The office is in a nice location, the pictures on the website look clean, etc. The doctor and support staff profiles show they have plenty of experience. The person who set the appt was very helpful and friendly. But my kitty has had some so-so experiences with good sounding vets before (one actually recommended by the shelter we got her from). What are some things to look for or questions to ask to make sure this is a good place for my baby?

Answer 1

Good question!

The things you have described all point to this being hopefully a decent vets - generally if the staff seem genuinely interested in you and your animal, this is a good sign. A nice modern, well-funded looking practice also indicates a successful practice that has access to the latest technology and medicines. Modern is good.

Feel free to ask as many questions as you like. First thing is, if they seem happy to chat and chat about your cat and not anxious to shove you out the door (although maybe forgive this if the waiting room is absolutely teeeeming with clients). Ask what their worming, vaccination and flea regimes are, and when to neuter. Ask what they can recommend for food, and even pet insurance (even if you don't want it, see what they say!). Oh, you can ask about microchipping too. And ask behavioural questions, like how to introduce a cat to a dog or something. You know, grill them! I'm always delighted with people who ask all the questions!

Be aware that shelters tend to favour cheap vets, not necessarily good ones, so these aren't always the best recommendations - stick with recommendations from friends, like you have. I think you're off to a good start.

But most importantly, just go by your instinct - did this FEEL like a good place?

Chalice

Answer 2

Yes, the vet i go to has 2 Pit Bulls and a Rottweiler. Why wouldn't they have time for a pet? Regular vets usually have the same hours as the average working person and they have days off just like the average working person. Emergency vets also have days off and have time to go home (breaks, lunch, etc..), they have different shifts like every other working person. Veterinarians have families, friends, and pets just like every other person. There is no reason why you can't own a dog or any other pet while you are working as a veterinarian.

Answer 3

A recommendation from a fellow cat owner is always a good start. Like most cats, mine hate going to the vets and can be a little feisty, so I pay attention to how the vet reacts to their behaviour. A previous cat bit my hand badly at the vets as they were trying to take a blood sample. The vet was surprised that I said nothing and told me that I shouldn't "let her do that". I was more shocked that the vet didn't seem to understand this elderly cat bit me because she was frightened. I changed to a vet who has a better understanding of cat behaviour, as that can be helpful in addressing non-medical problems. A good vet should always fully answer any questions that you have, and you should feel comfortable with asking them to fully explain tests and treatment.

The web article below has lots of good suggestions on what to look for when checking out a new vet for cats.

http://www.secretsofcats.com/health/choosing-a-veterinarian.html

Good vets can be hard to find, so try a few, until you find one you are happy with. Remember in an emergency, your vet could be dealing with a life or death situation, so make sure you are completely happy with who you entrust to care for your cat's health.

Answer 4

This question is outstanding. Very few people even consider the competency of their veterinarian and assume that they're all pretty much the same besides prices for procedures and exams.

The old cat lady (I'm an old cat lady too) has the right idea. I always ask a new vet whether he/she has pets of their own and what kind they have. Most vets have purebred animals. I put more stock in the professionals that have mixed breeds and mutts just because it's not necessarily the financial gain they can get from their pets, it's more about really loving the little goobers and what they do.

Answer 5

When you meet the vet does he/she greet the animal? Do they take the time to make your kitty feel at ease by stroking and speaking to it. Vets should have slow gentle hands. Do they ask you thorough history questions? Do they take the time to discuss and explain what's going on? Do they explain your options with regard to cost as well as effectiveness? Do they teach you how to give any necessary medication? Do they seem more comfortable with your kitty than with you?

I believe I have the world's best vet. I've taken 5 cats and 2 dogs to him for regular and emergency care in the last 14 years and he has never disappointed me. The first time I took my lab in he dropped to the floor and rubbed her belly and scratched her ears. He sobbed audibly as we put my beautiful tomcat down from cancer this spring. He has never shoved an expensive test or treatment down my throat when there was something less expensive and just as effective we could do and he has never tortured my animals when they were sick with extreme measures that weren't going to do anything but make me feel better while prolonging my animals' suffering. Come to think of it, I owe him a letter of appreciation.

Good luck. You'll know by the way the vet treats your cat if you've got a good one or not. When they are more concerned about the animals sensibilities than yours, you've found a great one.

Answer 6

I think you have to go with your Instincts on this one. You know how "You Feel?, about the Place", regardless of the physical appearances etc,.
I had a "Very Bad Experience a good many years ago when My cat was run over with a motor. i took It to a Vet that really looked the part cosmetically. I am sure you know what i mean?......

It was later, I discovered that not only was the vet (and assistants totally hopeless,but I am certain, they caused my pet to suffer unnecessarily) It died In fact.

Plus the fact they sent me a huge Bill?, which wasn't Important, If you no what I mean. (I never gave them a cent, and they tried to take me to court, then they backed out as I got evidence against there practice.

I am sorry I have rattled on at such a rate. I am simply trying to say"Be War y of some of these practices for the sake of your precious pet.
Tom 777

Answer 7

Ask around town, visit vet's offices, make sure the staff and facilities are clean. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against them. But the best thing to do is what I mentioned first...ask around town.

Answer 8

You have good advice, but I discovered that by watching their hands you learn a lot. I had a vet that only like dogs so when I got a cat I went to one a friend recommended. This man had really big hands, but he was so gentle, even when administering a needle.
He sold his practice and I was even happier with the new vet as soon as I watched his hands.

Answer 9

It took me many years before I found the best vets for my cats. Recommendations from other cat owners are usually the best way.

You might casually ask the vet when he is examining your cat if he is a cat owner. The three that I use at the clinic where I take them all have multiple cats in their home. Most vet practice is 80% dogs. Cats are difficult veterinary subjects and it takes a special gentleness to handle them.

One of the vets is so dear (and he has been practicing for thirty years). He opens a cat box with all the delight of a six year old opening a Christmas present!

You will sense the vibes from the vet and his personnel so be open to that and follow your instincts.

Answer 10

Well if the vet Rips the cat out of her carrier by the scruff of her neck, holds her that way while he gives her her shots, and then tosses her back in DON'T GO BACK..
if he talks to her sweetly & patiently until she comes out on her own and then showers her with love an attention while they treat her. go back.. again and again.. and DO NOT LEAVE.. I am returning to my old vet.. I left only because of the "wellness plan" the other vet offered.. but I HATE the other vet, They never treat the animals in front of me, which makes me wonder what the heck they are doing?