Creating A Great Home For Your Animals

4 Ways To Make Vet Care For Your Cat More Affordable

15 November 2017

Michele Cruz

Relatively speaking, cats are some of the most low-maintenance pets you can own. They're relatively independent, and aside from routine exams and vaccinations, they generally don't need much in the way of expensive vet care. Still, your cat can fall ill at any time, and the last thing you want is to be stuck with a hefty vet bill you can't afford. Fortunately, there are some options for making vet care for your cat more affordable, should the need arise.

Work Out a Payment Plan

If your cat already has a vet that you see for routine preventative care, check with them to see if they offer payment plans or other options to avoid having to pay your vet bill in one lump sum. Many vet offices will offer installment plans that you can pay off over the course of several months, especially if your bill is higher than a certain amount. CareCredit is another option to consider for paying your cat's vet bills; just be sure to call first and make sure the vet of your choice accepts it.

Opt for Pet Insurance

One of the best ways to avoid hefty vet bills preemptively is actually to purchase pet insurance for your cat. Just like your own health insurance plan, pet insurance will provide coverage for everything from routine preventative care to more advanced care, such as surgeries and treatment for serious illness. By paying just a small amount each month, you can enjoy coverage and peace of mind should your cat ever need more extensive care.

Contact Local Shelters

In a pinch, you might also consider contacting local pet shelters. Oftentimes, these shelters have funds set aside that can be used in emergency situations, so they may be able and willing to help with your cat's veterinary bills. Even if they can't, they may be able to "share" information about your cat's veterinary needs on their social media page. From there, people can choose to call in donations to your vet as a means of paying down your balance. This is a relatively common practice in the age of social media.

Inquire With Vet Schools

Finally, if your cat is in need of expensive vet care, inquire with local veterinary schools to see if they can offer you discounted or free service in exchange for the training experience for students. Veterinary students will be providing your cat with care, but they will be under careful supervision by experienced veterinarians.

Contact an affordable cat vet for additional advice.

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