Santa Monica Pet Medical Center

Each visit begins with a Comprehensive Physical Exam, where we assess your cat’s overall health, weight, mobility, and organ function via detailed observations of eyes, ears, teeth, and internal health. These exams allow us to catch early signs of illness, manage preventive care, and address concerns before they become serious, emphasizing personalized consultations and transparent communication.

Though specialized for puppies, our hospital supports kitten wellness through comprehensive Puppy & Kitten Wellness Packages, including vaccinations, growth monitoring, deworming, and dietary guidance. We provide age-specific examinations to prevent early-onset diseases, address developmental concerns (e.g., behavior), and ensure a healthy foundation for a lifetime of health and wellness.

For geriatric cats, we prioritize Senior Pet Wellness Care, including tailored preventative screenings (bloodwork, imaging), dental care, and early intervention for conditions like arthritis, kidney disease, or cognitive decline. Senior exams offer a holistic approach to extend mobility, comfort, and life quality, combined with nutritional and lifestyle recommendations designed for aging felines.

We administer Core Vaccinations (Rabies)—mandatory for all cats in California—as part of comprehensive preventive care. While feline distemper (FVRCP) is the equivalent core vaccine for cats, protecting against viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia (feline distemper), we emphasize staying up-to-date on vaccinations to prevent severe, often life-threatening illnesses for kittens and adults alike.

For cats—and dog owners—a crucial service we offer is Heartworm Testing & Prevention, though heartworm is rare in felines. We advise prevention medications based on lifestyle and exposure risks to avoid this potentially fatal disease. We perform regular screenings for cats presenting with symptoms or those residing in endemic regions, combining prevention with monitoring to safeguard overall health.

We actively promote Flea & Tick Prevention through consultations, tailored treatments, and ongoing monitoring. From oral medications to topical preventatives, we recommend products based on your cat’s lifestyle, risk factors, and health status. Regular check-ups and preventive programs help protect against parasites, reduce allergic reactions, and maintain your pet’s well-being, especially when outdoors.

We provide Microchipping & Registration for cats, a safe and permanent identification method that increases the odds of reunification if your pet ever gets lost. The quick procedure involves inserting a tiny RFID chip under the skin between the shoulder blades, linked to your contact information in a national database. We also register the chip to ensure the information remains accurate and accessible in emergencies.

Our team provides Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management tailored to your cat’s unique needs, whether they require weight loss, dietary adjustments, or specialized nutrition for chronic conditions. We assess individual requirements and collaborate with you to create balanced meal plans or recommend premium food options to optimize feline health, support longevity, and prevent obesity-related diseases.

As part of our comprehensive parasite control, we perform Parasite Deworming (Intestinal) to eliminate gastrointestinal parasites (e.g., roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms) that may cause discomfort, malabsorption, or health complications in cats. We recommend regular deworming protocols based on risk factors, lifestyle, and preventative health programs to safeguard your pet’s well-being.

Our team offers Behavioral Counseling to address problematic or concerning behaviors in cats, such as aggression, litter box avoidance, or excessive meowing. We combine behavioral analysis, environmental modifications, and training techniques to create personalized plans that help improve your cat’s quality of life and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Our hospital offers In-House Bloodwork (CBC & Chemistry Panels), allowing us to quickly diagnose infections, anemia, organ dysfunction, or metabolic issues with on-site laboratory services. Rapid results enable immediate treatment planning for acute illnesses (e.g., kidney disease, diabetes) or pre-surgical screenings, ensuring your cat receives timely care without delays.

We perform Urinalysis to evaluate your cat’s kidney, urinary tract, and metabolic health by examining urine concentration, pH, presence of crystals, blood, or infections. This diagnostic tool helps identify conditions like urinary blockages, infections, or diabetes mellitus early on, supporting proactive treatment to prevent progression and maintain comfort.

We employ Digital X-Rays (Radiography) for comprehensive internal imaging, enabling clear visualization of skeletal structures, chest organs, and abdomen. Digital X-rays allow rapid, high-resolution views, crucial in diagnosing fractures, foreign objects, heart/kidney disease, or cancer. Our radiology suite supports precise diagnostics to inform treatment plans and surgeries while ensuring minimal exposure for safety.

Our clinic utilizes Ultrasound Imaging to examine internal organs (e.g., liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder) and diagnose conditions like organ abnormalities, tumors, or pregnancy. This non-invasive, painless technology allows for real-time visualization, enabling rapid diagnoses and treatment decisions before referral to specialists. We focus on providing clear insights and compassionate communication about findings.

Our clinic provides Eye Pressure Testing (Glaucoma Screening) to detect elevated intraocular pressure, a critical component of diagnosing and managing glaucoma in cats. This painless test uses tonometry to monitor eye health and prevent vision loss. Early detection allows prompt treatment to preserve ocular function and prevent complications that could lead to blindness.

Our facility is equipped to perform Dental X-Rays, allowing us to identify hidden dental issues such as tooth root abscesses, bone loss, or fractures that aren’t visible during a routine oral exam. Dental X-Rays enable precise diagnosis and treatment planning for periodontal disease, tooth extractions, or dental surgery, ensuring comprehensive oral health care for your cat.

Our clinic performs Spay & Neuter Surgery with a focus on the safety and well-being of your pet. We provide state-of-the-art surgical care, including pre-surgical assessments, pain management, and post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Spaying reduces the risk of mammary cancer, uterine infections, and heat cycles, while neutering helps prevent testicular cancer, marking, and undesired behaviors.

Cat wounds from bites, fights, or outdoor adventures are treated with Wound & Laceration Repair, employing surgical techniques and advanced wound care protocols. We cleanse, disinfect, and suture injuries promptly to prevent infections, utilizing modern suturing equipment, topical therapies, and follow-up plans to support complete healing and maintain pain management.

We diagnose and treat Bladder Stone Removal for cats using minimally invasive procedures or, when required, cystotomy. Bladder stones (uroliths) risk blockage, a life-threatening condition necessitating urgent care. We combine surgical treatments with dietary recommendations to prevent recurrence, ensuring post-procedural monitoring to maintain urinary health and prevent complications.

We provide Emergency Stabilization for cats experiencing life-threatening conditions (e.g., trauma, poisoning, or severe illness). Our immediate assessment and intervention—including IV fluids, oxygen therapy, and diagnostic testing—help stabilize patients during critical moments before further treatment planning. Our goal is to buy time while implementing treatments to save lives, supplemented by compassionate care for concerned owners.

We provide Hospitalization & 24-Hour Monitoring for cats requiring intensive care due to surgical procedures, chronic illnesses (e.g., heart disease), or emergencies. Our facility ensures continuous observation, medication administration, and clinical assessments by experienced staff. Whether overnight or prolonged stays, we focus on patient comfort, vigilant monitoring, and seamless collaboration with specialist teams.

For cats experiencing respiratory distress, post-surgical recovery, or cardiac issues, we offer Oxygen Therapy using controlled oxygen supplementation. This supports oxygenation of vital tissues, reduces strain on the lungs or heart, and speeds recovery for conditions like pneumonia, trauma, or anesthesia complications. Oxygen is administered under strict clinical supervision with monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness.

We provide IV Fluid Therapy for cats that require hydration support, whether due to dehydration, surgery, kidney disease, or systemic infections. Our IV fluids replenish bodily fluids, support organ function, and aid in the administration of medications. Close monitoring ensures your pet’s responsiveness, and we tailor our approach to individual needs for optimal recovery.

We specialize in Pain Management for cats, offering a range of solutions from pharmaceuticals (e.g., NSAIDs, opiates) to alternative therapies like acupuncture and laser therapy. Our tailored approaches address acute and chronic pain—post-surgery, due to arthritis, cancer, or injuries—to improve quality of life. We monitor patients closely to ensure effective pain control while minimizing side effects.

In addition to standard grooming, we offer Medical Grooming for cats with chronic conditions or post-surgical care. This may include gentle nail trimming (dremeling), sanitary shaves, or specific treatments for skin conditions. Medical grooming services are tailored to prioritize safety, comfort, and prevent further irritation or complications, often combined with other therapeutic approaches.

During appointment visits, we provide Nail Trimming & Dremeling for cats to maintain proper nail health, prevent overgrowth, or discomfort. For difficult cases or cats requiring sedation, we utilize a dremel tool to safely and effectively trim nails. This prevents scratching-related injuries and supports overall mobility, particularly in senior cats or those with arthritis.

We provide Anal Gland Expression to address impacted or painful anal glands in cats, which can cause discomfort, scooting, or straining. This quick procedure involves manually expressing the glands to relieve pressure and prevent issues like abscesses or infections. While generally safe when handled by professionals, chronic problems may require dietary adjustments, such as increased fiber.

We provide Acupuncture as a complementary therapy for cats, rooted in traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM). Using thin needles, we stimulate nerve function, reduce inflammation, and promote natural healing by restoring balance to your pet’s energy (Qi). Our acupuncture treatments can address pain, gastrointestinal issues, arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and improve appetite for cats with reduced interest in food, leveraging physiological changes to enhance overall vitality.

We offer Cold Laser Therapy for cats, a non-invasive treatment that uses concentrated light to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing without medication or surgery. This targeted therapy stimulates cellular activity, improving circulation and supporting faster recovery from injuries, post-surgical healing, and chronic conditions like arthritis. Our laser therapy provides a gentle, drug-free alternative for managing discomfort and enhancing your pet’s comfort.

For cats recovering from surgery, injury, or managing chronic conditions like arthritis, we offer Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation. Techniques include structured exercises, therapeutic modalities (e.g., laser therapy, massage), and patient monitoring to restore mobility and strength. Rehabilitation can shorten recovery time, reduce pain, and improve overall quality of life for senior or recovering pets.

We conduct a Quality of Life Assessment for senior or chronically ill cats, using a structured approach to evaluate physical comfort, mental well-being, and overall vitality alongside medical data. This helps owners and veterinarians make informed decisions about care plans, treatments, and—when appropriate—compassionate end-of-life considerations, ensuring dignity for their cats.