the Cost of Non-Routine Pet Care

My cat received veterinary treatment for urinary disorder.

The price above reflects two different visits:

On the first, he received a urinalysis. The total fee was $146 for an office visit, urine draw, and laboratory testing.

On the second visit, he was given an ultrasound to check his bladder for obstructions. The total fee was $120.

Medications for his condition totaled out at around $30.

The service was great. This veterinarian always lays out your options really clearly so that you can make informed choices, and he's very good about calling immediately with any results.

Ultimately, the vet determined that the cat had what is known as a "sterile inflammation," because nothing showed up on the urinalysis or the ultrasound. The cat was given a course of antibiotics, which appeared to clear up the condition.

The staff at the clinic were also very helpful and kind, and they obviously genuinely cared about my animal as an individual, not just a source of revenue.

I have been working with this veterinarian for several years, so I knew he was the person I wanted to turn to when my cat was having health problems. Pet owners should get in the habit of going to the vet for regular checkups, because it gives them a chance to shop around and find the perfect vet without the stress of an emergent medical condition.

Make sure to ask for word of mouth recommendations, and do not be afraid to ask a vet about the potential cost of a procedure and what it will involve. A professional vet will always be happy to take the time to sit down and talk with you about a procedure and what it means for your pet.