Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions/answers that we are frequently asked. If you have additional questions that aren't covered here, please feel free to give us a call at (713)461-2287.

1. What are the Hospital hours?

   Our hospital is open Monday to Friday from 7:00am to 6:00pm. On Saturdays we are open from 8:00am until 1:00pm. The clinic is closed on Sunday.

2. Do I need to have an appointment?

    Yes, patients are seen by appointment.  Walk-ins are seen as soon as possible.  Emergencies are always given top priority. 

3. What forms of payment do you accept?

     Cash, Check, Mastercard, Visa, American Express and Discover.

4. Can I make payments?

    Payment is required at the time of service.

5. At what age can I have my pet spayed or neutered?

   Spaying or neutering can be done at any point once a cat is 8 weeks of age. Your pet is given an exam prior to surgery to help determine whether your pet is healthy enough to undergo the surgical procedure. Current vaccinations are required at the time of surgery. Also a pre-anesthetic blood screen is recommended prior to undergoing anesthesia and surgery.

6.  What is the pre-anesthetic blood screening?

   This is a blood test run here in the clinic prior to surgery. These tests help us determine kidney and liver function.  If your cat has kidney or liver problems they may require different medications or supportive treatments.  Any surgical procedure involves risk and the pre-anesthetic blood screening is done to help assure safety during surgery.

7. How long do the sutures stay in after my pet's surgery?

   Please make an appointment to have your cat's sutures removed 10-14 days after surgery (unless the doctor gives you different instructions).  There is no charge for removing the sutures.

8.  Is it a good idea to let my pet have at least one litter?

    No, there is no advantage to letting your pet have one litter. However there are plenty of advantages to having your pet spayed or neutered. These advantages include decreasing the chances of breast tumors later in life, decreasing the chance of cystic ovaries and uterine infections later in life, decreasing the desire to roam the neighborhood, decreasing the incidence of prostate cancer later in life, helping prevent spraying and marking, and also decreases the surplus of unwanted puppies and kittens.

9.  Do you board pets?

   Yes, we do boarding for our clients, including cats with chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and chronic renal failure. 

10.  What are your kennels like?

   We have the option of either a cage or a condo available for your kitty.  They both have plenty of room for the cat to stretch and they get constant attention from our staff.   Blankets, water, litter and food are provided for our boarders, but you are always welcome to bring your own. 

11.  What is the best way to medicate my cat?

     Medicating your cat can be challenging and there are several humane techniques we recommend.  Many cats can be medicated by placing them on a counter, using your left hand to firmly but gently hold their head by the cheek bones and using your right hand to open the mouth and insert the medication.  We recommend using a pill popper to prevent the cat from biting your fingers.  Pill poppers are available at our office for a small charge. It is also recommended to follow any medication (especially doxycycline) with 2-3 mls of water (mls are the same as ccs).  If your cat moves around too much for this technique, try wrapping them firmly in a towel and repeating the previously mentioned technique.  Always make sure your cat is able to breathe while wrapped in the towel.  We also recommend giving your cat a treat or playing with a special toy after medicating them as a reward. 
    If you are a current client and are unable to medicate your cat, we offer a special service to help.  Simply bring the cat and the medications and we will medicate your cat at no charge during business hours.  You are also welcome to board your cat during this time.