Frequently Asked Questions
Got Questions?
We Have Answers.
Our FAQs cover some of the most common queries we receive from pet owners, so you can feel informed and confident before your visit. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, just give us a call, we’re always happy to chat.
What makes Companion Animal Vet a cat-friendly clinic in Dapto?
We are proud to hold Gold Accreditation as a Cat Friendly Clinic — one of the highest recognitions in feline veterinary care in Australia. This means our team is trained in gentle, cat-specific handling (we never scruff), our clinic has separate cat waiting areas to minimise stress, and we use pheromone diffusers and low-stress examination techniques. For cats in Dapto and across the Illawarra, this translates to calmer visits and better health outcomes.
What cat health services do you offer at your Dapto vet clinic?
We offer a full range of feline services including wellness exams, vaccinations, desexing, dentistry, parasite prevention and senior cat care. We also provide the Companion Kittens program for new kitten owners, our Companion Cat Hotel for boarding, and — uniquely in this region — I-131 radiotherapy for cats with hyperthyroidism.
How often should my cat see a vet?
We recommend annual wellness checks for healthy adult cats, and six-monthly checks for cats over 10 years of age. Cats are very good at hiding signs of illness, so regular check-ups at our Dapto clinic are essential for early detection of issues like dental disease, kidney problems, hyperthyroidism and arthritis — all of which are common in older cats.
Does my indoor cat in NSW still need to be vaccinated?
Yes. Even indoor cats require core vaccinations (F3: feline enteritis and cat flu) as some viruses can be brought indoors on clothing or via contact with other animals. We’ll tailor a vaccination schedule to your cat’s specific lifestyle and exposure risk during their annual consult at our Dapto clinic.
My cat gets very stressed at the vet — what do you do differently?
We understand that vet visits can be very stressful for cats, and we’ve designed our entire clinic experience with that in mind. Cats have separate waiting and consultation areas away from dogs, we use Feliway pheromone diffusers, handle each cat gently and at their own pace, and always allow extra time for anxious patients. Bringing your cat in a familiar carrier and covering it with a blanket from home can also help — we’re happy to advise you on preparation tips when you call to book.