Find a vet you trust.

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You and your vet are your cat's healthcare team; you observe and report, your vet diagnoses and treats. Your veterinarian will arrange a schedule of vaccinations and regular checkups; maintain a medical history of your cat; and provide preventive, critical, and emergency care. Your partnership with your vet will be a long-term relationship. Working together, you and your vet can help your cat have a healthy, happy life.

Start your search by asking people you know for recommendations. Turn to:

• friends, family members, coworkers and neighbors who have cats
• your local branch of a cat fanciers' association, your local or state veterinary association
• your local Yellow Pages

• Are you happy with your vet?
• What is the name of your vet? Where is his or her office located? Is it a group or solo practice?
• Why did you choose this vet?
• Can you tell me about a specific situation and why you feel your vet handled it well?

Compile a list of at least six vets to check out.