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When to Seek Specialist Veterinary Advice for Cats with Ongoing Health Problems
A 500g block of butter doesn’t feel super heavy, but for a cat, losing that much weight is a lot. When those grams disappear little by little, it’s easy to understand how the change can go unnoticed. What can make it even harder to detect is when that cat appears healthy, maintains their appetite and behaves as they normally would.
At Cat Specialist Services, we have a team of feline medicine specialists, a registrar, residents, interns and veterinary nurses working together in our cat-only hospital in Brisbane. We receive referrals for a wide range of conditions, including those that many vets may only encounter occasionally in general practice. From our experience, referrals tend to fall into four main categories.
When a cat has a rare or unusual diagnosis
When cats are all you see, it makes sense that you’ll see even their rarest medical conditions a little more often than those looking after all manner of pets. While general practitioners may recognise and diagnose them, knowing the best way to approach treatment can be challenging, especially when the available veterinary literature is limited. Having managed these conditions ourselves, we can offer practical advice based on what we’ve seen work.
Medication selection is a good example. There may be two or three antibiotics suitable for the same condition, but cats might tolerate one far better than the others. Some are also much easier for owners to administer, which is another important consideration.
With a fungal infection such as cryptococcosis, the choice of medication can be more complicated. Fluconazole may be appropriate for some cats, while others require amphotericin. The best option will depend on the individual case.
When a diagnosis is established but long-term management needs clarification
Sometimes a cat’s diagnosis is confirmed, but the next steps are unclear. Many of our referring vets want guidance on managing certain conditions beyond the initial course of treatment. This may involve reviewing the available therapies, deciding on longer-term goals and establishing a plan that can be adjusted as the patient’s needs change.
A cat’s age, other medical conditions and overall health can all influence how we approach their care. For older cats with multiple diseases, this may involve weighing up competing priorities and deciding which problems need the most attention without compromising the management of others.
A referral doesn’t necessarily mean transferring responsibility for the patient’s ongoing treatment. Following the consultation, we can provide referring vets with detailed recommendations and any follow-up requirements, so the cat can continue seeing their usual veterinary team. We’re also available to discuss any concerns that may arise later.
When the diagnosis is unclear, or several diseases are involved
Then there are the cases where reaching a definitive diagnosis is proving particularly difficult. Initial investigations may reveal several abnormalities without identifying which one is responsible for the patient’s symptoms. This can be even more challenging in senior cats, where multiple diseases may be present at the same time.
For example, chronic nasal symptoms are notoriously hard to get to the bottom of. A cat with persistent nasal discharge or congestion may have lasting damage from a cat flu infection earlier in life, but a fungal infection or nasal tumour can present with very similar symptoms.
When previous investigations or treatments haven’t resolved the problem, further diagnostic testing may be needed to distinguish between these possibilities.
Cats are often referred to us at CSS for further diagnostic investigations. We can perform procedures including CT scans, rhinoscopy, biopsy sampling, and more to help establish the cause of a cat’s symptoms, whether they involve chronic nasal discharge, unexplained weight loss or persistent gastrointestinal problems. The findings can then guide treatment decisions.
When a cat isn’t responding to treatment as expected
But even when a diagnosis has been confirmed and a treatment plan put in place, things don’t always go according to plan. A cat may initially show some improvement before their symptoms return, or their condition may remain largely unchanged despite following the recommended course of treatment. At this point, it can be beneficial to seek advice from specialists who have encountered similar situations with their feline patients.
This can happen for several reasons. One possibility is that the original diagnosis is correct, but another disease is contributing to the clinical picture and went undetected during the initial investigations. Alternatively, the cat may need a different medication or treatment approach, particularly if the first option hasn’t produced the expected results. Understanding why a patient isn’t improving is important before deciding what to try next.
Much like the rare diagnoses we discussed earlier, this is another situation where our experience with feline cases can help. There are conditions that a vet in general practice may encounter only a handful of times throughout their career, whereas we might see 10 to 20 cases in a single year. That familiarity gives us a better understanding of how different cats respond to treatment, including what to try when the usual approach hasn’t worked.
A collaborative approach to complex feline cases
These four scenarios cover some of the more common reasons for involving a feline specialist, but they’re certainly not the only ones. There’s no single rule for when a cat should be referred, and the decision doesn’t have to wait until every possible investigation or treatment avenue has been exhausted.
At Cat Specialist Services, we also offer free advice to veterinarians and nurses within our referral network. If you’re unsure whether a patient would benefit from a specialist consultation, you can contact our team to discuss the case before arranging a referral.
“A referral doesn't necessarily mean transferring responsibility for the patient’s ongoing treatment.”
Are you worried about your cat’s health?
If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.
Meet The Author
Dr Rachel Korman
Specialist in Feline Internal Medicine
BVSc MANZCVS (Internal Medicine) FANZCVS (Feline Medicine)
Dr. Korman’s childhood love for cats led her to veterinary medicine, and early on, it was clear that feline care was her calling. After graduating from the University of Queensland in 2000, she worked in small animal and feline-only practices across Australia and the UK.
She received a Senior Clinical Training Scholarship from the Feline Advisory Bureau (now International Cat Care) at the University of Bristol, where she researched feline infectious and haematological diseases, and in 2018, became a Fellow of the Feline Medicine Chapter of the Australian New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and a registered Feline Medicine specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I refer a cat to a feline medicine specialist?
There is no single rule for when a referral is necessary. Common reasons include an unusual or unfamiliar diagnosis, uncertainty about long-term treatment, several concurrent diseases or a patient who isn’t improving as expected. Specialist advice can also be useful when initial investigations have produced inconclusive results or further diagnostic testing is required.
Can a feline specialist help if I've already diagnosed the condition?
Yes. A confirmed diagnosis doesn’t always mean the best treatment approach is clear. Feline specialists can advise on medication selection, longer-term treatment goals and managing concurrent conditions. Their experience with less common feline diseases may also help when the available veterinary literature is limited or a patient isn’t responding to the initial treatment.
What diagnostic procedures are available for cats with unexplained symptoms?
At Cat Specialist Services, we can perform investigations including CT scans, rhinoscopy and biopsy sampling. These may be recommended when routine investigations haven’t established the cause of persistent symptoms. For example, chronic nasal discharge can have several possible causes, including previous cat flu infections, fungal disease and nasal tumours, which may require further testing to distinguish between them.
Will my patient need to remain under specialist veterinary care after a referral?
Not necessarily. Many cats can continue seeing their regular veterinary team following a specialist consultation. We can provide the referring veterinarian with detailed recommendations, including treatment options and follow-up requirements, so they can continue overseeing the patient’s longer-term treatment. Our team is also available to discuss concerns that arise subsequently.
Can I discuss a feline case with Cat Specialist Services before making a referral?
Yes. We offer free advice to veterinarians and veterinary nurses within our referral network. If you’re uncertain whether a patient needs a specialist consultation, you can contact our team with details of the cat’s medical history, current medications and presenting problem. We aim to respond to enquiries within 48 working hours, although urgent queries should be directed to us by phone on 1300 228 377.
Patient Stories
Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.
Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.
Marley, and a very rare encounter with Listeria
Marley overcame a rare Listeria infection, hepatic lipidosis and diabetic ketoacidosis with intensive treatment and careful ongoing management.
Kitty, a lymphoma survivor
We first met Kitty after she was referred to CSS for the evaluation of a large intestinal mass
Poppi finds her feet again
Following surgery to remove a hairball obstruction, Poppi was referred to us at CSS as she had not bounced back as expected
Rusty and his ongoing chronic rhinitis journey
Lifelong nasal issues, including persistent discharge and breathing noise, have been a bit of a thorn in Rusty’s side.
Lando’s long game with cryptococcus
Lando was referred to CSS because he had a swelling under his jaw that wouldn’t go away.
Key Takeaways
Specialist referrals aren’t limited to undiagnosed conditions. They can also help with treatment planning and unexpected responses.
Multiple diseases can complicate diagnosis. Advanced investigations may help identify the cause of persistent symptoms.
Referring vets can retain responsibility for ongoing treatment, with recommendations and guidance from feline specialists.
Cat Specialist Services Reviews 
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Tanya Bell
6 months ago
We transported our cat here from another animal hospital, as his condition was too complex for them. Our pet was given the highest quality of care, multiple investigations/procedures being able to be done at the one place a godsend. We were kept up to date frequently throughout his stay. All questions & options explained thoroughly. Being able to have private visits certainly helped us and our cat too. I would highly recommend Cat Specialist Services at Underwood. Amazing staff from reception, vet nurses, vets & specialists. Oh, and yes he is recovering wonderfully at home.
Melinda Cox
A month ago
So very happy we were asked to come here for advice for our NORBIT. He has had 2 x UTI blockages within weeks of each other since turning 6. Surgery seemed to be his only option and he didn’t feel it was very fair on him if we didn’t at least exhaust all other avenues first.
Dr Allison was very thorough in her tests and has let us know she would like to treat the cause of the problem. Great news.
It may lead to removal of crystals in his bladder if his diet doesn’t let him pass them naturally.
At least this surgery won’t be as severe at taking his penis off him – so as his fur parents – we are very happy with this.
We await further tests to see what’s in store for him.
NORBIT will now be a patient of the clinic as we are so far very happy with his treatment thus far.
Lesley Rosekrans
A month ago
Hi has only been a week since losing my beautiful Peaches but can’t thank Dr Cindy, Maree and Jackie enough for the tender care they gave her and they after care they gave me. I sincerely thank them and can’t recommend the Clinic highly enough they are such caring people. Peaches I’m happier times.
Madison McEwan
A month ago
I cannot thank the entire CSS team enough and especially Dr Cindy for the care they provided for our boy with a urinary blockage, and we will be taking both our cats here from now on. The clinic is exceptionally clean and calming compared to all other clinics we’ve been too, and all staff from the reception to the nurses/vets were so supportive during a stressful time. I knew from the first minute that I got to see him after he was transferred that he was in the best place, and that the staff genuinely care about their well-being and positive long term outcomes. We were given regular updates and full transparency, so much information including QR video codes on how to administer medications, along with print outs and emails about how to best help avoid future issues or recurrence. Our boy got to smooch on everyone and was beyond well looked after. Thank you again, you all made an incredibly stressful situation actually manageable and calming.
Astrid El Gamal
6 months ago
Dr Wan-Ju has been treating my baby since her first seizure in November 2025 and she has been fantastic.
Everybody at the clinic is so friendly and caring and I know my baby is in good hands.
Thank you team!
Deeba M
3 months ago
Dr Alison Jukes from CSS Underwood is an AMAZING feline physician. She is kind, professional, thorough and our cat is blessed to have her on his side. She even was able to save us money and invasiveness by being skilled to the level of doing ultrasound on two separate occasions without our cat needing to go under full sedation. Our other cat was recently seen by Dr Jukes as well, and she made sure our cat’s heart was ok. I also want to thank the lovely Jacqueline and Mairead from customer care. They are very kind each time I see them and call up. Sending thanks from our family, including Smokey and Floozy!
Judith Dionysius
A month ago
My whole experience with CSS was positive – from the first email I received giving lots of information regarding the process of radioactive iodine treatment to the expected costs, to checking my cat in for the treatment, boarding for 2 weeks after the treatment and picking her up to come home. They didn’t push for any tests that were not necessary.
Janelle Wieden
5 months ago
We never knew this service existed but we are very grateful we were referred to them. Our vet Cindy was really great, she made us feel at ease during a very stressful time. We got the sense straight away the Leo was in good hands. This service made us feel better knowing that they specialise is cats only. Would highly recommend their services
Georgia Carter
5 months ago
My Lani finished her I-131 treatment today and I am beyond impressed with the way she was looked after. I am by definition a neurotic pet owner and sending my fur child away for a week was seriously daunting.
I was given daily updates about how kitty was eating, toileting and behaving. This really put my mind at ease. Vets and vet nurses were so accomodating and allowed Lani to have her favourite foods from home prepared her favourite way.
Her vet was so thorough when explaining her treatment and condition to me.
The ladies at reception were so friendly and understanding.
I honestly cannot recommend this clinic enough and I am so thankful for the positive experience Lani and I have had.
Lauren Woodward
A year ago
My sweet ginger boy Louis was hospitalised at CSS for a Urinary Obstruction. Dr Cindy and all the reception staff were amazing and empathetic. I would often ring up with questions post procedure and Dr Cindy would make time to talk and explain things to me
Service Locations
Cat Specialists accepts referrals for cats across Brisbane and surrounding regions, working closely with local veterinary clinics to provide specialist diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.
Contacting Us
Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.
Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pmSaturday/Sunday - Closed