Long Trip To Vet. Is It Worth It?

[weebeasties]

My old vet retired and I have been seeing other vets that work at the same practice. I haven't been very happy with them though.

There is a cat only vet that I would like to try, but it would be almost an hour and a half drive one way. Is that too far? Most of our cats are miserable on car rides - they cry, drool, vomit, pee, or poop. Sometimes a combination of all of the above. I hate the thought of putting all that stress on them for such a long drive, but I want them to receive the best care, something I'm not convinced they are getting at the current vet's office. They aren't bad vets, I think they are more knowledgeable with dogs. I live in a rural area so don't have many choices regarding vets.

Would it be worth it to make such a long drive to a cat only vet?

 

[rubysmama]

Hmmm... that's a pretty long trip, since there'd then be the stress of the vet visit, and then another long drive home.

How long is the trip to closer vet? That might make the 90 minutes not seem so long.

 

[christfawk]

As much as I would hate to go to a vet I didn't care for, I would not put my cats through the stress of that drive if they respond like that.

 

[FeebysOwner]

I wouldn't want to go that far. But, it does depend on how far your cat is traveling now. Ever think of trying to use calming products to see if they would help?

Also, if you had a good enough relationship with the retired vet, could you contact him and ask what vet(s) he would recommend?

 

[Pjg8r]

Are there any mobile vets who could come to you?

 

[neely]

I understand your dilemma and appreciate that you are willing to do whatever it takes for your cat(s) to get the best medical treatment. Would it put your mind at ease and help make your decision if you could talk to the feline specialist prior to making the trip? Perhaps you could explain the long commute and circumstances regarding your cat getting easily stressed out which is why you would like to consult via a phone conversation.

 

[maggie101]

At first I did not like but I read many good reviews about him. Also was good friends with my old cats specialist. Have you looked at reviews? If you have next door ask about vets in your area

 

[basscat]

I'd choose a closer vet, start going there, get to know each other...for one reason. Emergencies.
Doesn't matter how good a vet is if you can't get there in time.