Old Cats. Know a Good Vet? There are MANY Ways to be Good. Even GREAT.

Old Cats. Know a Good Vet? There are MANY Ways to be Good. Even GREAT.

Picking the Right Vet for Your Cat 🐱

Not every veterinarian approaches cats the same way — and when you’re choosing a vet for your cat, there’s more to consider than simply finding the closest clinic.

  1. Is the veterinarian practical and experienced with cats?
  2. Have they pursued advanced feline training or specialty coursework?
  3. Are they affiliated with the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP)?
  4. Do they understand the very different medical, behavioral, and handling needs of cats?

Marietta is fortunate to have some excellent feline-only practitioners.

I’ve treated cats for 40 years, and feline medicine has always been a major part of my practice — but I want to be completely transparent: I am NOT an AAFP veterinarian, and I am not exclusively a “cat vet.” I treat dogs, too.

If you’re specifically looking for a veterinarian who identifies as a feline specialist or “cat vet,” AAFP affiliation and advanced feline education are absolutely things I would look for.

Here’s a document you can use to help evaluate and choose the right veterinarian for your cat.

It isn’t published by the AAFP — but if someone is presenting themselves as a true “cat vet,” I think AAFP involvement belongs pretty high on the checklist.


Download 1 Page PDF “Old Cats Good Vets”

 

Author: Dr. Erik Johnson
Dr. Erik Johnson is the author of several texts on companion animal and fish health. Johnson Veterinary Services has been operating in Marietta, GA since 1996. Dr Johnson graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in 1991. Dr Johnson has lived in Marietta Georgia since 1976.