Business Details
28 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Feline Veterinary Care Provider in Chico, CA
Chico Hospital for Cats was founded in 1998 with a mission to provide compassionate, feline-exclusive veterinary care. Our practice was designed to create a stress-free environment for cats, incorporating specialized techniques like Feliway diffusers, quiet spaces, and gentle handling methods. We offer comprehensive services including wellness exams, dental care, diagnostics, and emergency treatment, backed by a team of experienced feline specialists. Our facility is Northern California's only Gold-designated AAFP Cat-Friendly Practice, ensuring cats receive care tailored to their unique needs.We utilize advanced tools like ear thermometers and customized sedation protocols to minimize discomfort during examinations. Our commitment extends beyond medical care to include client education and creating a welcoming atmosphere that reduces anxiety for both cats and their owners. With over 25 years of dedicated feline practice, we combine expertise with empathy to deliver exceptional veterinary services.
Services
Wellness Care
Kitten Care
Cat Dental Care
Pet Microchipping
Diagnostics
Pet Laser Therapy
Cat Boarding
Spay & Neuter
Nutrition Counseling
Emergency Care
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience specializing in feline healthcare
- Our facility is Northern California's only AAFP Gold-certified Cat-Friendly Practice
- We utilize specialized feline handling techniques to minimize stress
- Our team includes board-certified feline specialists with advanced training
- We offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options specifically for cats
Associations and certifications
- AAFP Cat-Friendly Practice
What people say
Friendly and super helpful
Took wonderful care
Professional and competent
Feline-exclusive expertise
Stress-free environment
Services
Wellness Care
Our wellness exams focus on preventive care through comprehensive physical examinations and health profiling. We monitor vital organ systems, discuss behavior and nutrition, and recommend vaccinations tailored to your cat's lifestyle. Early detection of potential health issues allows for timely intervention and better long-term outcomes.
Kitten Care
We provide specialized care for kittens through multiple early-life examinations, staged vaccinations, and developmental assessments. Our program includes FeLV/FIV testing, parasite screening, and guidance on spaying/neutering. We help establish healthy habits and create personalized care plans for growing kittens.
Cat Dental Care
Our dental services include routine cleanings, digital radiography, and treatment for oral diseases. We use specialized equipment to diagnose and address dental issues while minimizing stress. Preventive care focuses on maintaining oral health to prevent systemic complications from dental disease.
Pet Microchipping
We offer microchip implantation for permanent pet identification. The rice-sized chip provides secure identification that can't be lost like collars. Our staff assists with registration and maintains protocols to ensure accurate contact information updates throughout your pet's life.
Diagnostics
Our diagnostic capabilities include digital radiology and ultrasound for internal organ evaluation. On-site laboratory services enable rapid testing for accurate diagnosis of illnesses and injuries. Specialized imaging helps identify complex medical conditions requiring targeted treatment plans.
People
Elizabeth Colleran
Chief of Staff
Dr. Colleran founded Chico Hospital for Cats in 1998 after completing her Master's in Animals and Public Policy at Tufts. She established Northern California's first AAFP Gold-certified Cat-Friendly Practice, developing specialized feline care protocols used throughout the facility.
Questions
What services does Chico Hospital for Cats offer?
We provide comprehensive feline veterinary care including wellness exams, dental services, diagnostics, emergency treatment, spay/neuter procedures, nutrition counseling, microchipping, and cat-only boarding.
Are you open for emergency pet care?
Yes, we offer emergency veterinary services for cats during regular business hours. Please call us immediately at (530) 892-2287 if your cat requires urgent medical attention.
What makes your hospital different from other vet clinics?
We're Chico's only feline-exclusive veterinary hospital and Northern California's sole AAFP Gold-certified Cat-Friendly Practice, with specialized facilities and staff trained specifically in feline care.
Do you offer boarding services for cats?
Yes, we provide cat-only boarding in a quiet, dog-free environment. Boarders must be current on vaccinations and parasite prevention. We recommend bringing your cat's preferred food and toys.
How can I schedule an appointment?
You can book appointments online through our website, via the PetDesk mobile app, or by calling us directly at (530) 892-2287 during business hours.
What are your office hours?
We're open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We're closed on Saturdays and Sundays but offer emergency services during regular business hours.
Reviews (5)
Lisa Rizzo
Jun 13, 2022
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Dr. Kleiman was very kind, very informative and quick to answer my questions. Samet is a very very knowledgeable young man and the information he has provided me set my mind at ease. I feel truly comfortable & appreciative that my Gizmo is in Terrific hands for all his health needs. Thank you to both of them for all they are doing to help Gizmo overcome his thyroid & kidney issues. P.S. they were sweet with Gizmo - I am sorry Gizmo was a bit grumpy Sincerely, Lisa Rizzo & Gizmo
Rosario Clerici
Jun 09, 2022
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Our poor cat has suffered from allergies for a while and I decided to give Chico Hospital for Cats a try. The doctor and staff were great. The doctor gave me lots of useful information about cat allergies and explained the why and how of treatment. Happy to say that after following her recommendations, our little feline is doing great. If you are a cat owner, Chico Hospital for Cats is the place to go for your cat's health care.
T. Oates
May 27, 2022
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If I could leave a million stars I would! We had the most frightening experience thinking we were losing our baby, Tux. He is young so we were beside ourselves. His Vet is Dr Vekman. She is the most compassionate and dedicated feline veterinarian we have yet to come by. She treats all her patients like she would her own. She has the compassion for the family dealing with a new and scary diagnosis.
In our case it was diabetes and pancreatitis for our Tux. She takes the time and goes beyond the call of duty to guide and teach you every step of the way. If there is something she can't figure out with your kitty, she WILL find someone who can! You want the best Vet for your Cat, Dr Kaarin Vekman is who you want. I am certain all the staff is just as wonderful, but she is who we have been with since this happened with our own kitty.
I first brought our daughter's cat Daisy in a couple times a few years ago when she moved up here for college and our positive experience then is what sold us on where we wanted to bring our own cats when we retired up here.
In our case it was diabetes and pancreatitis for our Tux. She takes the time and goes beyond the call of duty to guide and teach you every step of the way. If there is something she can't figure out with your kitty, she WILL find someone who can! You want the best Vet for your Cat, Dr Kaarin Vekman is who you want. I am certain all the staff is just as wonderful, but she is who we have been with since this happened with our own kitty.
I first brought our daughter's cat Daisy in a couple times a few years ago when she moved up here for college and our positive experience then is what sold us on where we wanted to bring our own cats when we retired up here.
Denise Younie
Apr 29, 2022
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After rushing my kitten to 3 other vets. Chico Animal hospital knew what was wrong with him. I would highly recommend them to anybody that loves their cats.
Charley H.
Apr 12, 2022
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If I could give 10000 stars to Dr. Vekman, I would. Thank you for your kind heart and gentle hand, your knowledge and helpfulness. There is NO vet in the world like her. You will be impressed regardless of the reason of the visit. here I felt safe to express my concerns and knew that I was not judged for any questions I had. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the support with my old boy.
