Choosing the Right Veterinarian for Your Cat

Finding a good veterinarian is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your cat in their lifetime. Don’t wait until an emergency to find one – choose a vet you can build a relationship with before you bring your new kitten or cat into your family.

Whether your cat is sick, injured or simply needing a routine check-up, you want to make sure the vet you choose understands their needs and can give them the best care possible.

You can start your search by asking for recommendations from your local cat shelters and rescue organisations. You can also ask fellow cat-owners in your family or social circle for their recommendations. You can even perform a simple online search to see which vets in your area have the best reputation.

Here are a few key things to keep in mind when choosing a potential vet.

Location

It’s ideal to have a trusted vet located close to your home, in case of an emergency. On the other hand, depending on your cat’s specific needs, you might find it’s worth travelling a little further for a vet that’s the perfect match. Just make sure you have a solid back-up plan in place for times your cat may need emergency medical services in a hurry.

Type of clinic

Many veterinary clinics have one veterinarian and several vet technicians. However, group practices are becoming more common, which can be useful because they make several skill sets available at one location. One option isn’t necessarily better than the other, so use your judgment to decide which is ideal for you and your cat.

Rates and insurance

Veterinary care can be pricey, and you want to be assured you’ll be able to get the right care for your cat at affordable rates. Ask all your potential vets about their costs, and discuss options like payment plans or pet insurance.

Set up a preliminary visit

It’s best to start your search for a vet before you adopt a new pet. Plan ahead and give yourself time to look around before your cat joins your household.

Before you commit to a specific vet, you can arrange to visit the practice without your cat, to get a feel for the place and decide if it’s right for you.
Here are a few things to consider:

• Is the facility clean and hygienic?
• Are the staff professional and helpful?
• Are they friendly and approachable?
• Do they seem well-organised?
• What are their surgery hours?
• Do they provide emergency/ after-hours care?
• What services (tests, x-rays etc) do they offer on-site?
• Is there enough space to wait comfortably alongside other people and pets in the waiting area?
• Does it feel like a generally calm and safe environment? 

You can also take time to look at the practice’s website and social media accounts, to see what kind of reviews and feedback they are getting from their clients.

In the end, follow your instincts and choose a vet that makes you feel comfortable and reassured. Once you’re ready to take your cat for a check-up, watch how the vet interacts with them and you’ll soon know if you’ve found the right match!