This review will end up being a companion review to the one-star review from Jessica L. We took our cat emergently to CHAT a few weeks ago on a Saturday morning for clear pain and distress. Dr. Sternefeld saw him and diagnosed him with a blocked urethra requiring immediate treatment. They told us we could either have him treated onsite, or take him to the Pet ER. The Pet ER would be more expensive but he would receive higher-level, around-the-clock care. There was no charge for the exam. I came away very positively impressed that they had taken him immediately and then referred him away when that was best for the cat (if not best for their business). His treatment at Pet ER went fine and now he is home and healthy.Reading Jessica L's review, it is clear that this wisdom was hard-won. One reason we seek experienced clinicians for our pets and for ourselves is that we hope they will be familiar with our problem, and will have learned from the tough cases. In this case I can personally vouch for their having the benefit of experience. Read Less

I like the service I get here but it's very expensive! If you live on any sort of budget at all, this isn't the place for you. After my last visit, I may need to start considering other options as it gets very difficult to afford very quickly. Read Less

I was disappointed in the care my cat received here (who was seen for an urgent care visit, our regular vet's office was closed). She was not eating or drinking due to an episode of profound vertigo (unable to walk, stand, eat or drink) and the vet gave her a single, long-acting antibiotic injection-- was dismissive about my concerns that she was not eating or drinking and offered to administer a single bolus of saline under her skin. When she didn't improve, I brought her to our trusted vet and a stronger antibiotic was prescribed and I was instructed how to administer sub q saline for supportive care, in addition to an appetite stimulant until she recovered-- which made all of the difference. What bothered me most is that the vet never followed up with a courtesy phone call after my initial appointment with her. This week (well over a year later) the clinic left a voice message stating that she hadn't been in in a while and they were hoping to schedule a visit-- well, my cat passed away a few months back (due to unrelated causes). I have not doubt that there are very caring vets there, but unfortunately, my experience there did not reflect that. Read Less

Really not crazy about this place. I called for an appointment after it was recommended to me that I take my cat there for a grooming. I have yet to find a really good groomer for her, and someone suggested I go to Cat Hospital at Towson since they only work with cats. When I called to make the appointment, I told them specifically that I only wanted grooming, but they said they had to do an exam. I said fine, and had records from her vet sent over so we didn't have to reinvent the wheel. We got through the exam and I asked that her nails be clipped, that she needed a hygiene trim, and her belly trimmed up. They clipped her nails such that two weeks later I have to get them clipped again (her nails stay trimmed for at least 4 weeks with the lady who normally does it at another place) and they shaved... SHAVED!... her belly. They charged me $106 for all this good stuff. Aside from this disappointing appointment, the office was clean and the staff friendly, hence the one star. This is not enough for me to return unfortunately. Update 11-20-17: Customer service is really what makes this place great. Shortly after posting this review, I received a call from Maria, one of the managers. Maria took the time to listen, understand what happened, and offered a solution. While the mishap of the initial visit was due to a miscommunication, Maria took the time to make this right for me and our four-legged family member. Thank you again Maria! Read Less

I definitely will not be coming back, the prices are outrageous! Even if nothing is wrong with your cat they will find things to prescribe and give your cat things that she really isn't due for yet. I came here for a free check up and a toy and left out paying almost $120.00 in fees. They gave my baby medication for a little reddish eye and it seems like she is getting worst. More sneezes and the eye looks horrible now. They want me to come back in 2 weeks to check on the eye and bring a stool sample which will probably cost another $100.00.. I will be taking my services else where, they make me feel like I may need to put her back up for adoption with all these costs!! I can't afford all this!! Read Less

Dr. Cotrell helped me find the right solution for my cat with a chronic disease. This practice provides a treatment plan with pricing up front. It's important to ask questions to understand all the options. Dr. Cotrell is very responsive and cares a great deal for all her kitty patients. Read Less

The following review is intended to provide some lessons learned to other cat owners.  This review also describes how Dr. Sternefeld failed to provide competent veterinary care to my cat Kid.  Kid had an abnormal urinalysis in February 2016.  Dr. Sternefeld recommended a follow up test because at times the lab lets samples sit out for periods of time, and that's when the crystals may have formed.  The unreliability of the lab results was concerning but I understand that there is always potential for human error.  Dr. Sternefeld ordered an In-House lab test in April 2016 to retest Kid's urine. The results came back Negative. Dr. Sternefeld emailed me the results saying she had "no concerns over his urinary health."  No third test was ordered for the future, and no recommendations were given in regards to warning signs or diet changes..  All of these preventative measures could have been dispensed and were not. I have learned them all now when it is too late to have made a difference.Fast forward to a Friday morning in June 2016, where I woke to Kid sitting in a corner and crying in pain. I followed him to his litter box, where he squatted but was unable to urinate. At the time, I knew this was serious but did not realize it was life or death. I immediately called Dr. Sternefeld's office and was offered an appointment on Monday even though I told her my cat was unable to urinate (which later learned is a clear sign of urinary blockage and a life/death situation). I had to push her to please ask the doctor if we could come in that same day or at least request advice from Dr. Sternefeld. She eventually provided me with instructions to drop Kid off and told me they would fit him into the schedule that same day. Within an hour of dropping him off, Dr. Sternefeld confirmed the urinary blockage. She explained the Emergency (life/death) situation and that she must insert a catheter to allow passage of the urine.  Additionally, she explained the 24 hour vet stay requirement and quoted me a price of $1,000.  Dr. Sternefeld did not explain that she was limited in catherization tools. While she was adamant about the situation being life threatening, she did not advise sending Kid directly to the Pet Emergency (located 5 miles down the road).  Even though the ethical code of conduct for veterinarians states, "Veterinarians who believe that they haven't the experience or equipment to manage and treat certain emergencies in the best manner, should advise the client that more qualified or specialized services are available elsewhere and offer to expedite referral to those services."  I followed Dr. Sternefeld's recommendation and gave her the go-ahead to proceed.  An hour and half later, Dr. Sternefeld informs me via telephone that she is unable to attach the urinary catheter because she does not have "the proper tool" and that I must bring Kid to the Pet ER.  I took leave from work, and immediately headed over to pick up Kid.  At this point, Kid was completely lifeless.  Dr. Sternefeld further explained that she lacked the proper tools and promptly requested payment of $780 for the 1.5 hours of failed urinary catheterization.  I paid the bill and took Kid to the ER.  The Pet ER team successfully catherized Kid on first attempt.  During the procedure, I learned that multiple attempts to catheterize causes more trauma to the cat.  This is when I also learned some of the at-home preventative measures that could have potentially prevented the urinary blockage. The ER docs recommended transferring Kid to the surgery team for a procedure that would help reduce the risk of future urinary blockages.  The surgery was a success, and Kid is thankfully doing well today.   Kid's bill for 7 days in the Pet ER was $3500, roughly $500 per day for 24 hour care.  Dr. Sternefeld charged $780 for 1.5 hours. I reached out to Dr. Sternefeld.  I addressed the initial lab test results that she conducted back in Feb 2016 as well as her failed attempt at catheterization.  I respectively requested a partial refund of the $780 bill as Dr. Sternefeld failed to provide competent veterinary care on multiple levels.    Dr. Sternefeld never responded.  As Kid's primary doctor for the past three years, one would expect Dr. Sternefeld to assume accountability for her actions.  Instead, the practice manager called me to say that she witnessed the entire catherization procedure and claimed Dr. Sternefeld did everything correctly. The practice manager is not a veterinarian so it's unclear as to why she is involved.  Dr. Sternefeld has chosen to remove herself from the situation. That is her choice, but it reflects a lack of compassion towards animals and their owners. We were ultimately able to fight the charge through our credit card. I hope Dr. Sternefeld can remember why she became a vet in the first place because it is clear she has forgotten how to compassionately care for pets and their owners. Read Less

I have been taking my cats to CHAT for more than 20 years. One cat lived to 17 and one to 18. My new two year old is now a patient and I thought about finding a place closer to my home. None of them compared. I called Chat immediately for an appointment and look forward to another 18 years. Everyone is great and the experience is easy on the cat. Read Less

I cannot say enough about Dr. Cottrell and her fabulous staff and the exceptional care they gave my kitty, Abagail, in her last weeks of life.  I've lost kitties before, but the genuine thoughtfulness and kindness CHAT showed to her and to me is worth writing about. Their devotion to executing exceptional veterinary care is obvious. From the intentional way they make their hospital environment cat friendly, warm, and cozy, to the way they interact with us humans showing patience and empathy, they are a remarkable care team - simply remarkable!Thank you for making one of the hardest days of my life peaceful, and as joy filled as it could have possibly been. Well done CHAT! Read Less

I've been taking my beloved cat to CHAT ever since I adopted her (2 years). Dr. Cortell is great, really gentle and professional, and all the assistants are amazing too! They provide great service, they will remind you of your appointments, they will email you lab results, receipts, etc., if necessary. They are organized and tidy. The place is clean to perfection and it has a private parking lot in the back. It is great to have a place for cats only, I think it is a less scary situation for them.I would take away a 1/4 a star, though, because of the price. It is quite expensive. I actually save money every month in order to afford this for my kitty. I think it's worth it, though.  I also agree that they always try to sell you a lot of things you don't really need and that are VERY expensive. Eg. Cat Dental Insurance, or a treatment for fleas when your cat has never been outside our apartment in the 9th floor, and she is the only pet we have. But as I said, I'm willing to pay the extra expense, because I can see I'm paying for a cat only place and for a great location and cleanliness. I'll go back to them. They are GREAT people and professionals. I trust them! 4.75 stars!! :) Read Less

I've been taking my beloved cat to CHAT ever since I adopted her (2 years). Dr. Cortell is great, really gentle and professional, and all the assistants are amazing too! They provide great service, they will remind you of your appointments, they will email you lab results, receipts, etc., if necessary. They are organized and tidy. The place is clean to perfection and it has a private parking lot in the back. It is great to have a place for cats only, I think it is a less scary situation for them.I would take away a 1/4 a star, though, because of the price. It is quite expensive. I actually save money every month in order to afford this for my kitty. I think it's worth it, though.  I also agree that they always try to sell you a lot of things you don't really need and that are VERY expensive. Eg. Cat Dental Insurance, or a treatment for fleas when your cat has never been outside our apartment in the 9th floor, and she is the only pet we have. But as I said, I'm willing to pay the extra expense, because I can see I'm paying for a cat only place and for a great location and cleanliness. I'll go back to them. They are GREAT people and professionals. I trust them! 4.75 stars!! :) Read Less

So happy we found Dr. Sternfeld and her staff! Since moving to Baltimore we've had a difficult time finding a vet for our furbabies, especially finding someone we can trust. We found Chat to be very clean, warm and friendly. Their prices are definitely reasonable and let's face it, owning animals is never cheap! But most importantly our Callie girl was super relaxed and calm throughout entire visit (which was very thorough). Read Less

This is the best veterinarian office I have ever experienced. The staff is knowledgeable, and each staff member provides care with compassion and sensitivity, from the front desk to the techs to the veterinarians themselves. Unlike other vet offices, I never feel rushed at CHAT. After my recent visit, Dr. Sternefeld went out of her way to call and email me to see how my cat was doing. I have never had a veterinarian go out of their way to make sure my animal was doing well... I've always had to be the one to call. This place is better than most human doctors offices. Seriously. cannot recommend them enough. Thank you!! Read Less

I Love CHAT. So do my 3 cats. I sometimes stop by just to say hi to the people and the cats who are there waiting for adoption. It is always inviting, clean, and I enjoy all of the cat art and decorations. I have one cat who used to require 3 techs for a claw trim, she was so agitated. Now, she sits still while it is done. That is high praise, to CHAT for providing a very cat-friendly environment. The health care is top notch, too, which I appreciate. I had my fill of vets who treated cats like small dogs. LOVE CHAT. Read Less

The story of our cat Harriett began for us at CHAT Hospital where she had been a 'rescue' and was being cared for and prepared for adoption. The Vet judged her to be between one and two years old. She was sweet and beautiful, if skittish, and seemed a perfect Chistmas present for our animal-loving, eight year old son. Jon. We repeatedly returned to CHAT so Harriett could receive her regular care and shots and were always happy with the professionals working there. We were particularly delighted to see that our young neighbor, Katie John, had chosen to follow her veterinary interests and was working there. It felt good to watch Katie's confident and gentle manner of tending to our Harriett. Jonathan will be be 28 this year, and Harriett is a friendly "old girl", still going strong. Read Less

I took my cat, Neely, here yesterday. She had been feeling under the weather lately and I figured I would give it a try. I had been taking her to falls rd animal hospital, and I can't stress how different the experience was at CHAT!It was so nice to have a calm, quiet experience at the vet. My cats usually hate going to the vet because all the dogs barking and the noisy televisions. They had some sweet adorable cats for adoption in the front, and all the staff members were very nice.They got me in the same day as I called, reassured my neurotic cat-mom worries, and got me out of there within an hour. They did lab work and tests. All vets offices will try to give you services you don't necessarily need, so don't feel bad about refusing any service. The doctor was very sweet and loving and knows how to handle cats. I like this place!!! Read Less

I've taken my cats and some of my foster cats in to CHAT for several years. The staff are friendly, efficient and knowledgeable. The waiting room is, of course, free from dogs and clean. The veterinarians have all been knowledgeable and I like how they will ask colleagues if they need assistance on a diagnosis or best treatment. The only downside is the cost. Treatment at CHAT isn't cheap by any means ($1,000 for an in-heat spay with vaccines and snap test!) but they spell out the recommended treatment with cost and let the client decide. Good care but at a high price.Read Less

First of all, it's really great to have a vet that caters to cats only. CHAT has a great location and private parking in the back, and is inside a nice large house converted to offices. My cat is extremely shy and they did a great job trying to accommodate her in her state of abject terror, as she huddled in a ball and tried to escape any way possible. The vet tech, I think it was Deirdre, was great and by the end of the visit my cat was much more at ease. I saw Dr. Sternefeld, and she was extremely gentle and knowledgeable and explained all the possibilities and various treatments I could try for my cat's allergies (I know, it's ridiculous). They let me stay with my cat while they did shots and stuff, so she would be less scared. Very accommodating. They did recommend a number of tests and various things that I felt weren't absolutely necessary/can't really afford, like teeth cleaning, but they didn't push me or make me feel guilty for declining the services. The only reason I didn't give five stars is because it is fairly expensive, even without the several services I turned down. I guess that's the premium you pay for full service cat-only vet care. I think if you just need vaccinations you could get them a bit cheaper elsewhere, but for checkups and medical stuff, particularly for skittish cats, this place is great! Read Less

We've taken our two cats there for the last year and have really appreciated the supportive, responsive front desk staff, the calm and clean office, the patient and communicative (and...unlike some physicians, not patronizing) vets. The office has been very helpful when we had a few incidents with a swallowed string, a swollen lip, urinary track issues, etc. The location is very convenient, parking is easy, and it's such a relief to not have to stress my cats out unnecessarily by having them interact with dogs in a waiting room. I didn't have a problem with the cost of the services, the medicine, etc. I would recommend, however, getting vaccinations done at the local Humane Society because they are so much cheaper, but for actual diagnosis and annual physicals - I'd absolutely recommend these guys.Read Less

Very nice staff, and extremely knowledgeable. That's why I chose CHAT, because they are all about cats, and I feel have more expertise about cats specifically. I have never adopted a cat befpre, so they help me with everything,and give me great advice. Read Less

This is a top-notch animal hospital that caters specifically to cats. It is a very warm and welcoming office as well. Their staff is friendly and accommodating. It is great to know we have this facility right around the corner from us in Towson.Read Less

Dr. Cottrell and her assistant were amazing! They were incredibly kind, patient, attentive, and gentle! I couldn't have treated my super skittish kitty myself! I'm thoroughly impressed, with their professionalism, and attention. Huge perk: my kitty and I were not separated at any point, making it easier on both of us ;) Read Less

This was our first trip to CHAT since we moved here with two healthy young cats three years ago.  The place was clean, parking was easy, the wait wasn't too long.  I do think they put on the "hard sell" to get you to buy the premium services like insurance, etc.  And really...I am not going to pay hundreds of dollars for my cats' teeth to be cleaned, let's get real.  But they seemed nice and thorough and followed up with a call the next day. Read Less

I am really surprised that I am the first person to review this wonderful practice. From the beginning, they stand out from the crowd. A beautiful building with a "house cat" (they have cats for adoption that they show sometimes and take care of it). It is a real house. Pleasant music is being played. Wonderful receptionists. Great vet assistants. Superb doctors! Dr Cattrell spent an HOUR with our kitten, just on his physical! Really being detailed. My personal physician takes her cat there and she said that CHAT is always very good on follow-ups, they call, email... Send slow mails... Doctors and everyone who works there clearly love cats. Great place, great practice, great doctors (three in the practice). Also, they are not that expensive at all... The price difference for neutering between CHAT and beltway Animal Hospital (which I consider to be the cheapest but you have to wait forever to be seen and then it is five minutes and you are done), anyway, the difference was just 10 dollars. CHAT is totally worth it. If you have a cat (or want to adopt one!), please, check CHAT out. Read Less

I will not be back. The costs were high and the service was minimal. If you are looking for quality service at a reasonable rate, this is not the place for you and your cats. And if you don't go for their suggested treatments, the attitude is ""shame on you"" instead of ""how can we meet your needs."" The hard sell approach is not cat friendly! Read Less