Appointment Options for New Clients

If you are not currently an established client with us, we offer two appointment options so you can choose what feels best for you and your cat:

• Two-Visit Option:
  A 30-minute initial exam to meet our team and the doctor to explain the process and get your pet’s history, followed by a 1.5-hour imaging appointment scheduled for a later date.

• Single-Visit Option:

  A 2-hour comprehensive appointment that includes both the initial exam and all cardiac imaging on the same day.

Our team is happy to help you decide which option is the best fit for your cat.

What to Expect During Your Visit

When you arrive, you’ll check in at our front desk and be escorted to a quiet exam room. We allow a few minutes for your cat to settle and acclimate before we come in.

A team member will then review your cat’s history with you and perform an initial physical examination. Afterward, your cat will be gently taken to our quiet Ultrasound room; where our  Cat Friendly–certified veterinary technicians, who are trained in low-stress feline handling will perform any remaining diagnostics.

During the assessment, we typically perform:

• Blood pressure measurement

• Thyroid level testing

• Chest radiographs (X-rays)

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) - This happens at the same time as the echocardiogram

• Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) to evaluate heart structure and function

All imaging and results are submitted to a board-certified veterinary cardiologist for expert review via telemedicine.

While these tests are being performed, you are welcome to remain in the exam room or step out to run errands — whichever you prefer. When the testing is finished you and your kitty will go home. 

After the Appointment

Most cats need a mild, heart sparing, sedation to help them remain stress free throughout the imaging portion. If your kitty needs these medications they may be a little sleepy and wobbly. This will wear off over time and we recommend keeping your kitty in a small room until they are moving and acting normally. The cardiologist’s report is usually returned within two weeks. Once we receive it, we will review the findings with you and forward all results to your primary care veterinarian.

If heart disease is diagnosed, the Cardiologist may recommend a recheck evaluation in 6–12 months, depending on your cat’s specific condition. Any needed follow-up care or treatment can be provided either by our team or in partnership with your primary veterinarian — whichever you prefer.

If you have questions at any point before or after your visit, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here to support you and your cat every step of the way.

If you are interested in pursuing care with us; please call (802) 860-2287 or email contact@affectionatelycats.com. No referrals needed!