Asking informed cat vet questions requires some homework on your part, as well as some practice. It’s worth the effort, though, if it means you and your cat’s veterinarian work together more closely to ensure your pet’s continued good health.
Develop a Rapport with Your Veterinarian
The first step in asking intelligent questions is to develop a rapport with your cat’s veterinarian. Although this may not initially seem like a good first step, stop and think about it. Isn’t it easier to talk to people when you feel comfortable around them?
You don’t have to talk about feline health topics exclusively. Maybe your children attend the same school, or you both follow the same pro sports teams. Find some common interest to begin your discussions so you’ll be more at ease when it comes time to discuss the more difficult topics relating to your cat’s health.
Do Your Research
As the old saying goes, “knowledge is power,” so build your power base by doing some initial research before you start asking your questions. Visit your local library, explore feline health websites, call breeders or breed rescue groups, talk to other cat owners or contact veterinary schools as part of your research.
Think Things Through
Whenever possible, formulate your questions in your head before asking your veterinarian for more information. In emergency situations, of course, this isn’t always possible, but when you take your cat in for her annual examination, you’ll have time before the office visit to collect your thoughts and come up with some questions.
Go through your cat’s daily routine in your mind. Has anything changed? Make a note of it. Also note anything else that has changed, such as a feeding a different food, adding a roommate (human or pet) or changes in your work or leisure schedule. Cats are sensitive, intelligent creatures that may react to changes in household routine, and their reactions sometimes have an impact on their health.
When thinking through your questions, don’t talk yourself out of them or dismiss them as too basic. Veterinarians enjoy working with pet owners who take the time to ask questions, and no question is too basic as long as it’s asked and answered.
Write Down Your Questions
As you get ready to take your cat to the vet, make sure you have written down your questions. Refer to your notes as often as you need to during the office visit, and realize that over time, you’ll have to refer to them less often.
Ask Questions as Appropriate
Most veterinarians leave time at the end of an office visit for questions and discussion. Take advantage of this time to ask questions and discuss concerns you may have about any changes you notice in your cat's behavior or routine. Don't be shy about opening your mouth since you are your cat's health advocate. Your veterinarian can't help you if he or she doesn't know what's going on with your pet.
You are an important member of your cat’s health care team since you are the one who sees her daily. When you notice something isn’t quite right about anything in your cat’s routine, make a note of it and make your veterinarian’s office aware of it.