Hi, I’m Dr. Lauren! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my two adventurous cats, Pancake and Tiller.
Have you ever been to your own doctor, and they simply said “I don’t know what’s wrong with you.” Well, it happens to vets too. Obviously, no one wants this to happen, but it can happen for a variety of reasons: the issue is outside of one’s area of expertise, the disease can mimic a variety of complex issues and it’s difficult if not downright impossible. work without particularly advanced testing. modalities, or sometimes, simply, the answers and correct tests have not yet been invented.
In these human medicine situations, you may choose to seek a second opinion from another doctor, or you may even be referred to a specialist. Did you know that this is also possible in veterinary medicine?
What is a Referral?
With cats, as a veterinarian, I have seen referrals and second opinions throughout my career. I have also sent my patients for a referral, or second opinion. So what are they? Does your cat need one? And how do you make the visit as successful as possible? Read more.
The primary veterinarian or general practitioner sees routine appointments, as well as appointments for sick cats. They give vaccines, prescribe medications, and perform various surgeries. However, for patients with multiple ailments, or chronic illness, or multiple clinical signs and no diagnosis, they may be referred to another veterinarian. If the vet is a specialist, then this is usually called a referral. This specialist can then proceed to perform the necessary diagnostics to try and determine the underlying issue and how best to treat it. Referrals should come through your own veterinarian.
What is a Second Opinion?
Second opinions, however, can be seen by any veterinarian-specialist or not. And they can be self-referred, meaning your vet doesn’t have to direct the booking and appointment process. Second opinions in some countries mean that the new vet who sees your cat can’t make diagnoses or provide treatment – they just evaluate the case, and then give you feedback that you can take into your own veterinarian.
Tips For Getting Referrals and Second Opinions
If you’re thinking of getting a referral, or a second opinion, here’s the best way to book this process:
- Make sure your cat’s complete medical record has been sent, including imaging, lab results, and medical history. completely to the new vet. And, make sure this is done in advance as there is often little or no time available on the day of the appointment to review what can sometimes be a very complex history! In a perfect world, a week before would be perfect, in my humble opinion!
- I’ll tell you a secret: we honestly don’t care if you want a referral or a second opinion! Many people I’ve worked with fear retaliation from their vet, some to the point that they won’t even ask to send their cat’s medical records first. This only weakens the whole process, because it is very difficult for me to provide accurate information with only partial facts. And, I promise, we want the best for your cat, just like you do. If that means going to another clinic or vet, by all means, do it!
- Call the referral clinic a day or two before your appointment. This confirms the appointment time and also serves as a reminder for them to obtain any additional information from you or your veterinarian that they may need beforehand.
- Arrive early for a referral or second opinion appointment. Often there is additional paperwork to fill out, or possible questions. And, the vet may see you early, if their schedule allows. Also, traveling to a new place can mean new traffic hazards and other things that can slow down your journey. It’s better to arrive early, rather than late, and cut your appointment time.
So the next time you take your cat to your vet, and the answer comes back with “I don’t know what’s going on here”, know that you have options. Those words may sound scary, but there is also light at the end of the second tunnel- it may just take a little extra time to get there!
This article is part of a series by Dr. Lauren, Pancake, and Tiller.
