Spending Friday night intently watching your cat to see how much of a problem he has peeing, instead of going out to eat ramen with other Yelpers, doesn't sound like a great choice of activity. However, being a responsible pet owner, that is the choice I made (and the poor cat was looking so mournful, I had to forgive him his inconvenient timing).
I phoned All Creatures just before closing time and explained little Alfie's odder than usual behaviour and obsessive toileting needs. The lady I spoke to was immediately helpful, seemed genuinely concerned and quickly advised on the possible medical explanation. I was able to book an appointment for first thing the following morning and she also gave me the number for the emergency out-of-hours vet just in case.
The next morning, (having phoned the emergency vet and been given some very clear guidance enabling me to assess that the situation wasn't imminently fatal - I have so much knowledge on the topic now I feel like I may be capable of achieving a minor veterinary qualification myself), Alfie and I duly pitched up at All Creatures.
The vet we saw came across as caring and knowledgeable, and Alfie seemed pretty calm throughout despite ordinarily being susceptible to stress during close encounters with vets. He even didn't seem to mind the observations about his weight - he's on a diet and going cold turkey on "Dreamies", but no need to rub it in when a fella's already feeling delicate eh.
As well as dealing with the medical issue in hand, the vet also gave Alfie a general check, which seemed very thorough, noticing that he needs some dental work for a cracked tooth (which might have something to do with his penchant for tearing cardboard boxes into bits with his teeth). So it looks like we'll be returning quite soon. read more