Follow these tips to connect with a skilled, feline-friendly veterinarian near you.
1. Veterinary Professional Associations
Contact the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, 200 4th Ave. N., Suite 900, Nashville, TN 37219-2394; (615) 254-3687. You can search by city and state for a diplomate in feline or in canine and feline medicine.
Contact the American Association of Feline Practitioners, 200 4th Ave. N., Suite 900, Nashville, TN 37219; (615) 259-7788. You can search the membership directory by city and state.
Contact The American Animal Hospital Association, 12575 West Bayaud Ave., P.O. Box 150899, Denver, CO 80215-0899; (303) 986-2800.
2. Phone Book Ads
Look for veterinary clinics that mention a special interest or affinity for cats. If none exist, you can call several clinics close to you and inquire about areas of specialization of the doctors on staff, waiting to see if cats are mentioned. Consider location and extended office hours, plus how after-hours emergencies are handled. Follow up with a personal visit to see the facilities.
Chat with the veterinarians about your kitten and what kind of care you desire. Learn about their specialist referral policy, when appropriate.
3. Word of Mouth
Do you have friends, neighbors or co-workers who are just as passionate about their kitties as you are? Ask them where they take their pets, and why. Did they have any bad experiences at a local veterinary clinic? You'll still need to follow all the steps mentioned above for touring the clinic and meeting the staff to be sure the fit is right for you.