Especially Cats Veterinary Hospital A Thrive Pet Healthcare Partner

We had our cat's teeth cleaned (and a few extracted) with Dr. Wilson. She was fantastic. Very patient and compassionate. Pricey, but that's SF for you. Would definitely recommend taking your kitties here! Read Less

Very nice, helpful staff. One of my cats had an accident on the way over and the staff promptly washed him off AND his carrier, so I have to give them props for that. It was a big load off my shoulders. The vets are also very informative and cat-oriented. This is a fantastic clinic for feline fur babies, my only issue being the hefty bill at the end of a simple visit (I bring my two cats here for routine immunizations and when they're sick). Read Less

My little cats are very, very lucky to have the outstanding Dr. Grace Carter as their vet! They have been Dr. Carter's patients since they were babies, and they're now four years old. They have grown up happy and healthy under her care. She has expertly tended to all of their health needs, from vaccinations to dental cleanings and everything in between. Not only is Dr. Carter an excellent vet with regard to her medical skills, she also has a wonderful rapport with the furbabies. Her love for cats is super evident, and she is very gentle and understanding and calms down her often-anxious little patients with great effectiveness. She is always ready to answer any questions that you may have about your cats' well-being. Important to note: she is great at working with you to find a way to care for your kitties while taking into account your budgetary limitations. She will propose different treatment options that you can talk over with her and see which one works for your cats and your situation. There are two other vets at Especially Cats. Dr. Buttar cared for one of my kitties, Katie,  when she suddenly got sick late one afternoon, and he was excellent, too. He checked her thoroughly and let me know what options were available for treatment, and their costs. The treatment option that we opted for had Katie bright-eyed, chipper, and back to being a happy and energetic kitty early the following morning. The other vet at the hospital is Dr. Wilson, whom I have not yet met, but she is also top-notch I am sure.  The veterinary staff is wonderful; they are tremendously skilled and kind with their furry little patients. Whenever they work with my cats, they do the necessary medical procedures or vet assisting with expertise and patience. Furthermore, they are a pleasure to deal with whenever you visit or contact Especially Cats. In short, Especially Cats is a very special place where your beloved kitties will be exceptionally well-cared for by wonderful vets and staff. It is a pleasure to give Especially Cats the highest recommendation! Read Less

If I could, this would really be a 2.5 rating. I don't hate Especially Cats but I don't love it either. It could definitely be a 4-star rating if not for my one issue.I have used their services for a little over a year and have had all good experiences each time except for the fact that I have felt like the vet is always trying to sell me the highest priced meds possible or tackle on other services to get as much as possible from my visits. I feel she doesn't take the time to ask questions about me or my cat's preferences and immediately goes into recommending highly priced products. My financial concerns probably aren't of importance to her but this goes for something as small as a hygiene clip, which she would recommend at the slightest sight of poop on my cat's butt.A more specific example is the time I took my cat in for a cold. The vet suspected it was more allergy related than a cold and yet, she recommended a "super" antibiotic that would be sure to solve any virus that could be the cause and tried selling me on the fact that it had a good flavor as well. I mentioned that my cat didn't need such a fancy med so she then suggested what I know to be the general med for cat colds, Orbax, and which I have given to my cat for the exact same condition in the past and has cured him. Another instance is when I took in another of my cats for chronic diarrhea. I agreed to get her tested to try to pin down the problem and when the results came back, the vet suggested a med that would cost me over $100. Because it was a powder, I asked if there was an alternative that would come in the form of liquid or a pill, and so she prescribed a different med. The price difference was $80 (!!), and although the med wasn't effective in curing my cat, when I took the time to actually read over the test results, it was noted that the viruses my cat tested positive for were most likely not causing the diarrhea and were of low levels. This infuriated me a bit because the whole point was to cure the diarrhea, not some other conditions that were not of danger to her health. The vet, in her email to me, did not mention any of this and instead just pushed the meds on me, leading me to believe it would cure the condition while also keeping her on a restricted diet. Ofcourse I do take some responsibility in that I should have been more caring in reading the full test results but, I do feel that being able to trust my vet to disclose all my options as well as the if's and whatnot is expected so I did not. I have no issue paying for the care of my cats when necessary and I do think the vet has my cats' best interests at heart but, I do feel that she tries to upsell me on products and services. And while I will still continue to use their services, I do recommend for anyone taking their cat here to make sure that you ask questions and especially about ALL of your options. Other than that, the staff there is nice and polite, parking is fairly easy and, they have good hours and can usually fit me in quite quickly. Read Less

One of my cats needed to remove his heavy tartar on his tooth, Dr. Carter took care of my cat's procedure. I was very anxious when I heard it's done under anesthesia, it's like for other surgeries. Also this cat is very easily get scared. He was seen by another 2 doctors at different vet services in his past, but both time he got really panicked and tried to run away so hard. One of the time it was even mobile vet service, still he was traumatized and hid under the bed for several hours after. But when my cat and I met Dr. Carter first time for pre surgery health evaluation, I was impressed how she treated my cat, very gentle and my cat even let her hold him, my cat didn't seem he was frighten at all, very calm. That's not happening usually with strangers for him. And Dr. Carter herself is very kind and confident doctor, she didn't mind to take her time to explained to me every single things, made sure I had no further questions. Also she came out to greet my cat and me in the morning of the procedure when I brought my cat in. At first, I decided to take my cat to this hospital just because they are cats specialists, but after my first pre-surgery visiting, I was pretty much confident that my decision was right.My cat came back from procedure and recovering at home now, at post surgery also they took time to explain and answered to my all questions. Thank you to Dr. Carter and all staffs who took care of my cat today. I will be surely bringing my cats here in future if they ever need to be seen by doctor. Read Less

Really friendly and knowledgeable. They are especially good with our asthmatic cat who had chronic sinus infections and allergies. I was willing to drive from Oakland to take our two cats to see them because they were so good.Read Less

I am a mom to a "difficult patient" (she even scares me when we go to the vet), but Dr. Carter has always been super compassionate and caring with my baby, even when she's growling and spitting. She does a great job of paying attention to my reactions and reassuring me as well! I also feel well-informed about the diagnosis and treatment options, and when my cat needed some teeth extracted, Dr. Carter did a great job. She and the office staff are also willing to file claims to my pet insurance for me, which is great! I highly recommend this place. Read Less

Dr Carter and all the staff are really caring, knowledgeable and try to do the right thing without pushing too many medical procedures. I love the place € my kitty doesn't really but that's understandable. We've been going here for 10 years now. Read Less

I love Especially Cats and the high quality of care they provide. I'm lucky enough to live within walking distance and they have been accommodating with making quick appointments when My cat needed a vaccination before travel and when I worried about why he had peed on the rug. I should also add I found their prices to be very reasonable for vet care in the city. Even if I move out of Parkside, I plan to continue care here. :) Read Less

Friendly staff is really what makes this place top notch. Also the the fact that they really care about every animal that comes in is a huge plus. If you're looking for a vet for your cat, this is one of the best options around the bay area. *Don't trust the review of Puja. That lady is obviously being a princess over one incident. I've cancelled last minute before and they rescheduled me for another day. Read Less

My cat squished her tail and made this really loud screaming sound. I was so nervous and brought her here. They were very prompt and did a x ray and told me that my cat was ok. No bones were broken and she is just a bit bruised. They gave her some pain killers and we were on our way home. Really gave me a piece of mind. Would take my cat here for regular check ups too. Read Less

So happy a friend reccomended Dr. Carter.  She is very personable and my cats are in great hands.  I don't feel like they are trying to pad the visits like I experienced at Seven Hills in Diamond Heights.  They have a great staff to boot. Read Less

I called to let them know that I couldn't get my cat into my carrying bag and needed to reschedule the appointment because there was no chance my cat is willing to cooperate - she scratched me and bit me when when I trued to, many times. Today, I requested to reschedule for Saturday, and was told that they can't schedule me for any Saturday anymore with reason that I didn't show up once and cancelled the last minute once. Well, when I cancelled the last minute that was because I had migraine attack (I clearly mentioned that to the person I spoke to at the front desk). I don't remember not showing up without calling. Well mind you. You better hope you never suffer migraine! I couldn't believe this is how they treat their client! I have been taking my two cats to them and both always have Saturday appointment. Maybe there was one non-Saturday appointment, but that as an exception. Each appointment i arrived in time of earlier, even so, we're not being seen 15-25 minutes later.. but did I ever compaint? No. until now. Well, I tell you what especially cat hospital; some of your front desk people are a bunch a snobs, no smile, no people-person. You'd think that people who work here will be people and animal friendly. Wrong! I'll take my business elsewhere. You just lost one client. Soon maybe more if this is how you treat your clients. Read Less

Wonderful experience! They were able to squeeze me in for a last-minute appointment with Dr. Buttar. My cat is sweet, but incredibly shy and scared with strangers. He was very kind and gentle with her and seemed very knowledgeable and thorough. I'm so glad to have found a place close to home that I can really trust. We will definitely be seeing Dr. Buttar permanently. Read Less

Have been going to "especially cats"For about 13 years. It has changed owner ship with new doctors.I have been really happy with both incarnations.Last year our 20 year old cat, Nigel, had to have a bandage changed twice a week for a few months, they gave us a little discount because of how often we had to come.They were always so kind and concerned.I felt their concern when we had to put him down.Now we have two new cats, Dr Wilson was so responsive thru emails with the problems I was having with with the new feral cat that actually brought me to tears!It's been a ridiculous struggle but both cats are getting along great now.I really like all 3 doctors here and the staff. Read Less

I have been going here for 4 years ( though two owners) and due to me mention how happy I am with them, 3 of my friends switched from all animal vets to a vet that is all things cat. Thestaff is always polite, the doctors professional, answer all my questions and have always treatmy cat like it is theirs. Several specialized food items they sell, and checked on the internet and they sell them for the same prices. SWEET!  Their prices for services are extremely reasonable and I noticed they have a discount for seniors. Read Less

I drove across the city with my cat who hates car travel to this practice thinking that (based on the name of the practice) he would receive exceptional care. I arrived early for the appointment and sat in the cramped waiting area. I noticed my appointment start time pass and continued to wait without any explanation from the staff as to what was taking so long. More than 20 minutes after my cat's scheduled appointment time, Dr. Carter emerged from the exam room with a couple and their cat. Once in the exam room, I began to tell her why I had brought my cat in (she didn't bother to ask) and she looked up at the clock and in a very condescending tone and with raised eyebrow, told me that we were already past 20 minutes into the appointment. The appointment started late because she went past time with the last patient! My cat did not get a full exam or appointment and I was not allowed to ask anything because of her lack of time management. The entire time I was there she was incredibly rude and even rolled her eyes when I tried to ask her a simple question. I emailed my cat's health history in advance because he was a new patient, per their request. When I mentioned I had done so she interrupted me to say "there were a lot of pages, he has a lot of health problems and I didn't have time to read it because we are 20 minutes into the appointment." My cat is a very healthy young guy with no health issues. His file contained all exams, etc. since adoption including 2 exams to prepare him for flying across the country when we moved. She couldn't be bothered to glance at his file and made an incorrect assumption instead. And if in her mind a lot of pages equals unhealthy that would have been even more reason to *actually look at the paperwork*. I realized then that this woman had no intention of providing the service I was paying for or answering any of my questions or even treating me with basic dignity so I gave up and sat quietly in the corner and waited for the "exam" to end. I was told I would get a call by close of business that day regarding the stool test and have a chance to speak with a doctor regarding any follow up testing. Of course, no one ever called me. I called them and somebody working the front desk emailed me the results; no chance to speak with anyone. I paid over $100 (not incl. stool test fee) for an appointment that was half the time it should have been conducted by a very rude and abrasive woman with no chance to address the concern I brought him in for. I was on time, sent files in advance per their request, and my cat is the world's best patient (purrs throughout exams and wouldn't hurt a fly). Unless she treats everyone in an awful manner I can only guess that she treated me so poorly because I am a young woman of color. Moreover she failed to carry out a proper exam and/or answer any questions. She spoke to me in a manner which you might speak to a naughty child. I even had to hold my cat myself despite the fact that there appeared to be at least 2-3 vet techs in the reception area. She began the appointment 20 mins late and midway through she left the exam room for another 5 minutes. She wouldn't make eye contact with me and I just felt uncomfortable in her presence - she didn't do anything other than waste my time and cause my cat stress because he had to travel by car round trip for no reason as the appointment was pointless. I would not recommend this place to anyone. Total waste of time and money and something felt off about Dr. Carter. The entire experience was disconcerting to say the least. A week later, I found a great mobile veterinarian and redid the entire process and re-spent the money I wasted at Especially Cats. I am writing a review because I made the appointment based on reviews and what I experienced was the opposite of what I was expecting - unprofessional and unacceptable. Read Less

Love love love my cats veterinary hospital. My three cats all go together and they feel at ease, calm and comfortable when they go. It's a bonus that the hospital is dedicated to cats only. The Vets and staff are very friendly which it makes it feel like they truly care. I have been a customer for the past 8yrs and a very happy customer Read Less

(Updated August 14, 2016) Especially Cats has provided great service for the last 3 years. They gave us same day appointments when we needed them, on about 5 occasions. Drs. Buttar and Carter have seen our 13 year old cat for a recurring respiratory infection and on each visit have gotten a bit more aggressive to diagnose and treat the infection. They also were careful to vary the medications to avoid developing a tolerance to the antibiotics. We had used the SF SPCA Hospital for nearly 40 years, but when the SPCA told us that they were booked and could not see our cat, even after being told he was having serious respiratory issues (after a dental cleaning there 5 days earlier), we tried Especially Cats and got an appointment 2 hours later. We are quite happy with the examinations, treatment, prices, location, and the follow-up. Getting a same day appointment when needed (without being charged an "Emergency" fee) is a distinct advantage that Especially Cats provides. We were able to get same day appointments each time we needed one (about 5 times). Other routine appointments were always within an hour or so of the time and day we requested. Appointment times were always honored and our cat was seen promptly by the doctors. We found street parking right in front of the clinic on all but one appointment (in the next block on that one occasion), which makes it very convenient, too. Sadly, our cat died of cancer a few months ago, but the euthanasia process at Especially Cats was particularly gentle and caring. If another cat adopts us, this will be our vet. Read Less

If I could give this Veterinary Hospital 10 stars I would.  Although I've only been going to Especially Cats for a little over a year, I cannot say enough good things about the hospital, staff and doctors.  Dr. Grace Carter is a wonderful Vet.  She is kind, thorough, considerate, highly competent and has a comforting way about her.  She puts the cats and the cats parent at ease, in what can sometimes be a stressful situation.  Although, I've only seen Dr. Lindsay Wilson on one occasion, she too, is highly competent and has a wonderful bedside manner.The staff is great and very caring.  They are all highly efficient in their individual positions and everyone is so personable, professional and accommodating. Another plus is parking is a breeze.  Metered parking all along Taraval with unmetered side street parking.  I highly recommend Especially Cats to anyone thinking of switching vets or anyone that just got a new kitty in their household. Read Less

We have been coming here for 8 years now, and I am very happy with the care that my two cats have received. They have both had their share of health problems, and the doctors and the staff have always been incredibly patient and kind while figuring out the best treatment options. The doctors have gone out of their way to do extra research for more difficult diagnoses, and always call me to check on our cats progress. We also love that they specialize in cats, and I'm sure our cats appreciate the quiet waiting room.Read Less

Very happy to have found Especially Cats.  Staff professional and attentive.  Easy to get an appointment.  I had to call several times and each time staff answered my questions politely and with great care.  When they said the doctor would call me she always did at the appointed time, which I appreciated greatly.  Clean office.  Easy parking.  Dr. Carter is very experienced and it shows in her diagnosis of my cat.  When she doesn't know she says so which I respect.  I truly felt she wanted the best for us.  The price was within range for services.  We will take both of our cats there in the future. Read Less

Couldn't be happier.   The vets are wonderful, appointments can usually be made for the same day and can't beat the cost.  Someone kicked in a window and cut up Mayas face, she's recovering nicely thanks to the work of the vets here. Read Less

We brought our kitten here to get a regular checkup and had a seamless experience! About 6 months ago, we took our baby kitten to SPCA where we got misscheduled and the "Feline Wellness Center" was actually closed. We were able to see a vet, but were forced to stay in a waiting room with 3 big dogs that were barking loudly. Our baby kitten at the time was crying of fright in our carrier and we ended up waiting 30 long grueling minutes for a vet to see us. Loved Especially Cats, because as the name states- this place is only for cats! Dr Wilson was very sweet and knowledgable and gave us a lot of great advice as "new" cat owners. Other pluses include ample parking, close proximity to our home, and being open on Saturdays! So far, so good. Thank you! Read Less

There's nothing worse than when you're worried sick about your beloved sick cat. So, when I took Zack back to Especially Cats where he had been for check-ups before, I was reassured by Dr. Buttar's professionalism and empathy. However, when I left messages with the staff for a promised follow-up call, it *never* came. Now, I read Seth N.'s review and diagnosis of his cat and it sounds exactly like what ailed Zack but this was never discussed, just a recommendation for more expensive tests, e.g. ultrasound. No discussion about a diet change, nothing.Several prescriptions, in pill form, were doled out by a cold front desk assistant. No discussion about any liquid options or even an inquiry about whether it was difficult to administer pills.Fast forward three months and Zack became so ill, the end was inevitable. Under the circumstances, I opted not to return to Especially Cats but went to the San Francisco SPCA Veterinary Hospital Mission where they were warm, caring, empathetic, and helped make a very traumatic occasion as bearable as possible. I feel certain that would not be the case at Especiaily Cats, if no other reason than that they don't have the same facilities for end-of-life procedures.I'll never take my other cat, Zoe toEspecially Cats nor recommend it. They really failed us. Read Less

When my cat was spayed at this hospital I could see right away that she was in very good hands. When we picked her up we even received a few doses of kitty pain killers, which I though was awesome because I could see that she was still in pain. Be forewarned however, the place is pretty pricy. Read Less

We walked into the lobby to the sound of a cat howling. It was blood curdling, but I told my daughter not to worry. No cat likes the vet, but after six years without incident except our cat hiding under the chair with sweaty paws, I was confident things would go well. I was expecting that seeing so many positive reviews, although it was our first visit. I was wrong.  Most things that could go wrong, did at this visit. I have to agree with another Yelper who said unless you have a docile cat, they really aren't knowledgeable on how to warm up and handle a frisky pet.After six years of uneventful visits (in Seattle) I was asked to hold my own cat. (Most cats are not really themselves at a vet appointment, and most owners are not trained in holding a cat during a probing exam. Have you seen a vet take a cat's temperature?)  When I asked for a tech because I was more comfortable with that approach, and mentioned if my cat gets upset she can sometimes nip, a tech was called in and without ever "warming up" the cat, the tech used a restraint hold that contorted the cat's face. Now I've seen lots of firm scruffing of my cat, which she generally responds pretty well to, but have never seen anything like this. My cat started to panic. In return, the hold got tighter. Soon, my cat was making the same alarming sounds we heard when we arrived, and showing her pearly whites in displeasure.  She began fighting to break free. (I was in shock at this point. I had never seen my cat react this way ever, ever at a vet. Her terrified reaction seemed to be in direct relation to the way she was being held.) The situation continued escalate, with my cat scratching the tech to escape the hold with both front and hind legs, the tech insisting she was bitten by the cat (I witnessed a scratch not a bite, and I think the tech was incorrect in saying it was a bite, but it was a confusing situation.) Importantly, we were told our cat, with six years of rabies shots, uneventful appointments and no previous biting incidents (outside of nervous nips) would have to go on a "rabies watch" before our paid-for vacation. The vet insisted: this was the law, they had no choice, it was a ten day watch and we should take it seriously. They would call us in five days to check in.   No one ever followed up or called. Ever. We went on "watch" and they dropped the ball despite calling successfully multiple times prior to our appointment (i.e. they had our number) and despite telling us this was a concerning legal and health issue. We were left to wonder was there any real concern from them? If so, why didn't they call? Moreover, was there concern about the treatment our pet received and that things went completely sideways? Any concern we were asked to pay for an appointment that resulted in no diagnostics or real exam? In six years of vet appointments, this was the most disappointing vet experience for our cat and for us. Later, at a popular cat overnight spot in town, I was told by the owner there that that this vet is not that well regarded and has a poor word of mouth from his other clients. I would never have known that looking at all the mostly favorable reviews. Read Less

Dr Wilson was the veterinarian for my two cats Jasmine and Pippin. She's absolutely terrific. The cats are in great health because of her. Jasmine was sick with a viral infection for a long time and Dr Wilson worked hard to find a solution to get Jasmine healthy and it worked. She is great about getting back to you as quickly as possible when you have a question about your cats and their treatment programme. The staff is friendly, good about reminding of appointments, and do they little things like clip the cats' claws so efficiently when asked. I also appreciate that Especially Cats Veterinary Hospital only treats cats. That's their primary focus and I think that's why the hospital is so effective in caring for our cats. Read Less

We've been using Especially Cats for the last 18 years. We've had many of our feline friends begin and end life with the vets at EC. They have been, unequivocally, expert and available in everything we've needed from them. Most recently, when one of our beloved elderly ladies became too ill to carry on, one of the vets came to our home all the way across town after her long day at the clinic, to do the euthanasia for us so we didn't have to take her back to the clinic to have it done. We know it saved our old girl from having to suffer through the car ride which she hated, and it saved us from the burden of putting her through that. We are so grateful for that consideration. i can recommend Especially Cats without reservation. Read Less

We currently have six cats that range from 1- 16 years old. Over the years we've been to a variety of vets. However, once we discovered Especially Cats, that was it. Now, we only take our cats to Especially Cats and here is why: all of the employees at Especially Cats, from the vet techs to the vets, are friendly, efficient, knowledgeable and compassionate. If I email or call, a vet or vet tech always responds right away. The staff is also consistent. Unlike many veterinary offices I used to go to, the staff at Especially Cats has remained the same with no changes or turnover. That means they get to know you and your cats, and you get to know them. Not only does it make for a more personable experience, it means your cats get better care. Our experience with them has always been positive. I highly recommend them to anyone who loves their cat(s). Read Less

I drive all the way cross San Francisco to take my cats to this place, they are THE BEST and also THE NICEST. First started when my previous vet said my two Maine Coons needed substantial dental work and quoted a very high price. I got a second opinion at Esp Cats - exactly the same diagnosis and about 75% of the cost. The work was EXCELLENT, the cats not at all traumatized, the follow up care was spot-on, and their subsequent visits have been problem free. This is a vet that will happily tell you if your cat needs NOTHING done, is in great shape and come back in a year for a check up - n o pushing of ANY products or services, just genuine heartful vet care. I'm convinced, and so are the cats! Read Less

i was completely awestruck by the sensitivity of Dr. Benfatto. let's get this straight, i'm not a touchy-feely person. i had a sick cat & i wanted to get the no nonsense answers to what was best for my companion of 15 yrs; Dr. Benfatto was so straightforward, patiently listened to my explanations, asked questions, performed an exam & gave me the options. No pressure to make one choice or the other, just the facts ma'am, but in the kindest way imaginable. the choice i made was incredibly difficult, as anyone who's had to make that choice knows & Dr. Benfatto was gentle & comforting to both me and my cat well beyond expectations. here's the kicker - i got a condolence card in the mail today! we hadn't been long-term patients, i don't have other animals right now, so there was absolutely no motive other than kindness for this extraordinary gesture. thank you more than i can say for making a difficult situation bearable. Read Less

These people really know what they are doing. The place is spotless, well-organized, and offers the kind of personal care you can only get from a smaller operation. (I've seen the back area, too.) Dr. Rozycki is especially good with animals. He is not only exceptionally loving and attentive, but he is an expert with phlebotomy (finds the vein every time; always painless to the cat), dental surgery, and any procedures he's done for my three cats. He is also very sensitive to weighing the benefits of a procedure versus the stress it would cause to the animal. I believe the other vets are very good, too. One of them recommended a very effective joint-restoring supplement to a friend of mine, and it worked wonders for her cat. The senior vet tech staff is also highly skilled and intelligent. This place is a gift to the community. PLUS, the prices are fantastically reasonable. Highly recommended! Read Less

Well, not really--our cat is never happy when she goes to the vet! But I am. It is a highly loving and caring veterinary office and we are thrilled with their services. Thank you to all the staff and doctors! Read Less