Getting a second opinion

[PinkSparklyPussyCat]

I posted on Thursday about finding out Harry had a heart murmur and what sounded like quite bad gingivitis. We are still waiting for the results of the blood test but we have decided that we are not going to put him through any more tests, apart from possibly an ECG which another branch of our vets can do.

My biggest worry is his teeth. He obviously can’t go through his remaining years with toothache but, on the other hand, I don’t want him to have another dental unless it’s absolutely necessary. The vet that saw him on Thursday was a locum and I’d like a second opinion as there was no mention of a heart murmur or gingivitis 7 weeks ago when he saw his old vet.

Can I ask to see a different vet at another branch of the same practice or is that bad form? I have no idea of the etiquette of this!

I believe you can ask them but you have to state you want a second opinion. They have to ask the original vets permission. Tbh. If I was doing that I'd go to another practice completely.

It’s difficult. Part of the reason for wanting to see the other vet is that the locum is only going to be there for a couple more weeks but there’s no permanent replacement lined up so presumably another locum.

As Harry has, shall we say, a few ongoing issues, I want some continuity. I was actually offered an appointment at the other branch when I booked but, as I wasn’t expecting any of this, I decided to see the locum and I’m wishing I hadn’t now. He’s been to the other branch before and it was that vet that unwired his jaw and is apparently very experienced.

Why do these cats put us though so much?!