Most of the time, your regular vet handles all of your cat’s health needs, from routine check-ups to minor illnesses. But there are occasions when your cat may need more specialized attention. Just like in human medicine, veterinary specialists focus on areas like cardiology, dermatology, ophthalmology, etc.
Knowing when to bring your cat to a specialist vet can ensure your cat gets the best care possible. Usually your attending vet should refer you when he/she feels that the case is beyond his/her expertise. However, sometimes you will need to strongly request for a second opinion if you have doubts or are unsure of the options presented to you.
Here’s a quick guide on when to consider taking your cat to a specialist vet:
1. Ongoing or Worsening Health Problems
If your cat has an issue that isn’t improving or keeps coming back, it might be time for a specialist, e.g.
Skin or ear infections that don’t respond to regular treatment.
Ongoing digestive issues, such as chronic diarrheoa or vomiting.
Specialists may have access to advanced tools and treatments that help them get to the root of ongoing health concerns.
2. Complex Conditions or Diagnoses
Just like humans, animals can develop complicated conditions If your cat is diagnosed with something complex such as heart disease, eye issues or cancer, a specialist can provide advanced treatment options and guidance.
For example, a veterinary cardiologist can better manage heart disease, or an oncologist can provide treatment options for cancer versus your normal vet.
3. Surgery Needs
For routine surgeries like spaying, neutering, small wound stitching, a general veterinarian is usually enough. However, more complicated surgeries, like those involving bones or joints, may require the expertise of a veterinary surgeon.
For certain situations, seeking a 2nd opinion is to the benefit of your pet e.g. 1 vet suggesting limb amputation vs another who is able to save the limb due to expertise.
Cats with fractures, severe arthritis, or spinal issues benefit from a specialist who is trained to handle these procedures.
4. Oral Health and Dental Issues
Dental disease is common in cats, and while routine cleanings can be done by a general vet, severe dental problems may require a specialist.
A veterinary dentist is trained to handle complex dental issues, like severe gum disease, extractions, or oral tumors, which may need advanced equipment and skills.
Refer to previous blog post on common signs of dental issues in cats.
5. Skin Conditions and Allergies
If your cat experiences constant itching, allergies, or chronic skin issues, a veterinary dermatologist might be helpful.
Dermatologists can perform tests to determine if there’s an underlying allergy and suggest treatments that go beyond standard care, helping your cat feel more comfortable.
6. Eye Problems
Eye issues can be painful and sometimes lead to vision loss if untreated. If your cat has a severe eye injury, recurring infections, or signs of vision problems, a veterinary ophthalmologist can provide the specialized care needed.
Eye specialists are trained to diagnose and treat complex eye conditions and are equipped to handle delicate procedures that might prevent or treat vision loss.
Benefits of Visiting a Specialist Vet
Advanced Diagnostics: Specialists use more advanced tools, such as ultrasound, MRI, CT scanners or specific blood tests, to better understand your cat’s condition.
Specialized Treatments: They can tailor treatment plans specifically for your cat’s condition, often providing access to therapies that aren’t available in a general practice.
Second Opinions: If you’re uncertain about a diagnosis or your vet recommends a second opinion, a specialist can confirm or adjust your cat’s treatment plan.
In Singapore, vet specialists tend to be located in hospitals or specialist clinics.
You can refer to a list of available specialists here.
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