Most pet owners will likely go to a vet clinic nearest to them, or a vet clinic that a family member or a friend uses.
14 years ago, when I first adopted my eldest cat, Lucky, he was a hissy kitten. He would hiss at everyone and everything. Finding a suitable vet for him was difficult as the first clinic I brought him to didn't want to deal with him. The male vet shook his head and told me, "This one cannot make it, terrible cat".
I was taken aback as I didn't know back then that some vets prefer not dealing with cats or does not have adequate experience handling cats. It took us 3 tries before finding a vet who wanted to handle my cat.
Now, there are many available options and vets who specialize in cats and especially feral cats.
Take the time to evaluate which clinic is most suitable for your pet with these considerations in mind:
1. Ask for recommendations:
Don't be afraid to ask experienced cat owners, friends & rescuers for their opinions.
Many published lists online may not be the true reflection from the point of view of a pet owner but rather marketing or a quick Top 10 list for someone's blog or article. Ask why the clinic is recommended and evaluate the reasons - is the vet very experienced & qualified or is it a biased recommendation due to friendship?
2. Check online reviews (Google, Facebook):
Make it a habit to read the Best & Worst reviews before deciding of the clinic is suitable. Take the reviews with a pinch of salt but a general outlook of what to expect. A review of the staff & nurses are equally as important as you do not want to deal with forgetful nurses. However, bear in mind that some Google reviews may be paid reviews, so look out for the timeline. I would be suspicious if majority of the 5 star reviews were written during the same period.
3. Evaluate the cost, location of clinic and operating hours:
Is the location convenient to you? If you work, is the clinic open till night or on weekends, or do you have to take a day off everytime your cat needs to see the vet?
If it's a specialist clinic, are you able to afford the care & hospitalization?
4. Vet availability & after care options:
How long do you have to wait to get an appointment? How long do you have to wait to see the vet? Sometimes even with an appointment, you might end up waiting for 2 hours before the vet can consult your cat.
If your preferred vet is always unavailable, are you comfortable with the other vets attending to your pet? Does the clinic offer emergency services or after hours?
Do they have a contact outside working hours to clarify instructions such as a Whatsapp chat? Do they have a list of 24 hour clinic options if they are unable to attend to you?
5. Experience & Compassion
A good vet should be knowledgeable, compassionate & able to communicate effectively with you & your pet. This does not mean that you should stay away from new vet clinics, as some of the vets may have gained their experience overseas or with other clinics before venturing out on their own.
Do the nurses & vet seem comfortable handling your pet if it's fierce? Does your pet seem overly traumatized after each vet visit?
They should be willing to listen to your concerns, answer questions & explain treatment options in a way that you understand.
If your pet requires special care that is beyond your clinic's expertise, they should be professional enough to refer you to a specialist.
6. Trust your instincts:
Ultimately, trust your gut and choose a vet clinic with whom you feel comfortable & confident in doing what's best for your pet. Building a trusting relationship with your vet & clinic staff is essential for your pet's ongoing healthcare. I once stopped visiting a vet clinic because their staff always failed to follow up on referrals & appointments, and my confidence in the clinic waned because they didn't seem like they could handle their clients. My money was better spent elsewhere.
Never be afraid to clarify & just remember not every vet is good at everything & it is OKAY to seek a second opinion.
Attached is an easy infographic for your reference.
Download & share!
© The Cat Whisperer Singapore
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