Since I'm involved in cat rescue and have six cats of my own, I've developed client relationships with multiple vets, including one that's close to me and has extended emergency hours. One is out on the country and has lower prices on routine things, and one is an independent vet a half-hour drive from me.
10 years ago, the independent vet saved my oldest cat's life when three other vets failed to solve a severe urinary blockage problem. The cat is 15.5 years old now, and we went to see the vet for a checkup and senior bloodwork. All is well, including bloodwork. I asked if the cat needed a dental cleaning, and he said he wouldn't do it if it was his cat. He described some other vets as "corporation practices" and said they tell every client that every cat needs a dental cleaning, and, indeed, I've noticed my other vets pushing this hard.
This vet said he would do a cleaning if I wanted him to do it, but he didn't think it was medically necessary. And this vet is known as a very talented surgeon.
I know each cat has to be evaluated independently of others, but is it a pattern for vets to push questionably necessary dental cleanings? I simply don't know, and I'm a skeptical person who likes to keep an open mind.
10 years ago, the independent vet saved my oldest cat's life when three other vets failed to solve a severe urinary blockage problem. The cat is 15.5 years old now, and we went to see the vet for a checkup and senior bloodwork. All is well, including bloodwork. I asked if the cat needed a dental cleaning, and he said he wouldn't do it if it was his cat. He described some other vets as "corporation practices" and said they tell every client that every cat needs a dental cleaning, and, indeed, I've noticed my other vets pushing this hard.
This vet said he would do a cleaning if I wanted him to do it, but he didn't think it was medically necessary. And this vet is known as a very talented surgeon.
I know each cat has to be evaluated independently of others, but is it a pattern for vets to push questionably necessary dental cleanings? I simply don't know, and I'm a skeptical person who likes to keep an open mind.