The London Cat Clinic

How can we help?

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

At The London Cat Clinic, we understand that every cat is unique, and so are their needs. This page answers some of the most common questions we receive, from preparing for vet visits to understanding pet insurance and general cat care, to help you keep your feline companion healthy, happy, and stress-free.

Appointments & Visits

How do I book an appointment for my cat?

You can book online, call us directly on 0203 740 1112, or visit the clinic in person. We’ll help you choose a time that suits you and your cat.

Bring your cat in a secure carrier, along with any previous vet records, a list of medications, and questions you may have.

Vaccinations & Preventative Care

What vaccinations does my cat need?
Core vaccines include feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), depending on lifestyle.
Booster frequency depends on the vaccine type, but typically ranges from annually to every three years. We’ll advise you based on your cat’s needs.
Yes. Indoor cats can still get fleas or worms from humans, other pets, or through open windows. Regular treatment is important.
We’ll recommend a product based on your cat’s age, weight, lifestyle, and health history—usually a monthly spot-on or tablet.

Costs & Payments

Our standard consultation fee is £98, which includes a full health check and discussion of any concerns.

Yes, we may be able to offer payment options for larger procedures. Please ask at reception for details or read
about our CareFree Credit options.

We can help you submit claims, and in some cases, we can claim directly from the insurer if pre-authorised.
Yes, emergency and out-of-hours appointments usually carry an additional fee. We’ll always explain costs beforehand.

Neutering & Microchipping

Most cats can be neutered from around 4 months old, though we’ll advise based on your cat’s health and development.
Neutering helps prevent unwanted litters, reduces territorial behaviours, and lowers the risk of some health problems.
Yes, microchipping is a legal requirement in the UK from 10 June 2024. It helps reunite lost cats with their owners.
No. The chip is tiny and inserted quickly, usually during a consultation or while your cat is under anaesthesia for another procedure.

Getting you cat to us

Cats often associate carriers and car rides with stress, making vet visits difficult. This can lead owners to avoid trips, potentially affecting the cat’s health.
Choose a sturdy carrier that opens from the top and front, can be taken apart, and is big enough for your cat to move around comfortably.
Leave the carrier out in a place your cat likes, add familiar toys or treats, and reward them for going in. Gradually close the door for short periods to build comfort.
Cats may carry unfamiliar smells that can upset other pets. If needed, keep them in a separate room for 24 hours before reintroducing them gradually.

Insurance

Yes. Many people think only older pets get sick, but we see younger pets needing treatment every day. Insuring your pet while they’re young means fewer pre-existing conditions and more comprehensive cover for future health issues.

There are four main types:

  • Accident Only: Covers accidents, not illnesses.
  • Time-Limited: Covers each condition for a fixed period (usually 12 months).
  • Cost-Limited: Covers each condition up to a set amount of money.
  • Lifetime: Covers ongoing conditions with a yearly benefit that renews each policy year.

It depends on your budget and your pet’s needs. Lifetime cover is typically the most comprehensive, especially for ongoing conditions, but it may cost more upfront. Cheaper policies might offer less long-term protection.

Policies can vary greatly in what they cover and how much support they offer. Always read the small print and compare carefully before deciding.

Switching pet insurance later can be tricky. Any pre-existing conditions your pet develops will likely be excluded from new policies, so it’s best to choose the most suitable cover early on.