Cat Clinic of Central Illinois

My husband took our cat Yaya to see Dr Carlson, she was diagnosed as having Chronic Kidney Failure.
I had no idea the journey we were about to embark with CKD. Dr Carlson advised my husband to stay off the internet and off internet groups and that was a mistake. As I’ve come to learn the internet groups have offered more support and information on how to treat my cat’s CKD than Dr Carlson.
I’ve only been to the office once to visit my cat while she was hospitalized. The place itself is very clean. So that might be the only reason they merit one star.
Finances were important to us when treating our cat which is why on numerous occasions my husband spoke to Dr Carlson about splitting balances into payments — which she did — up to the last treatment she provided.
I would rate this office as one of the most expensive offices we’ve ever taken our cats to. If you want to pay Gold Coast Chicago prices, go to her.
My husband was asked to sign a credit form to split payments. Upon picking up our cat after the hospitalization my husband was blindsided with a staggering bill which was never discussed with him. Granted he should have asked for everything in writing but he thought Dr Carlson’s word could be trusted.
On the form my husband received it stated payment needed to be made in full by July 7.
After release Dr Carlson did not once follow up to see how our cat was doing. On the occasions my husband called the office no one ever asked how she was, they just asked about the payment.
Just last week Dr Carlson wrote my husband an email asking for the balance to be paid by June 26 or the account would be turned over to collections. We also received a letter addressed to both of us including a copy of the credit financial form that had been filled in with additional information. This without my husband’s knowledge or permission.
Although I never signed anything at Dr Carlson’s office she took it upon herself to stalk me on the internet, find out where I worked, called my employer and verified private information about me.
Her bio lists her as a member of the American Association of Feline Practitioners but the AAFP website does not list her as a current member. I suggest if you are looking for a reputable vet/​cat specialist to treat your cat, you start by doing a search there. There are other vets in the Champaign area that are listed.
So… if after reading this you are still planning to take your cat to them, just a few tips.
Ask for a written estimate before any treatment is performed.
Go online and do some research.
Proceed with caution.
Also, due to the algorithm in this site there are various reviews that are currently hidden. Do yourself a favor and click the gray link that says # other reviews that are currently not being recommended. There are a few positive ones but the negative ones will help you understand the experience other patients have had at the hands of Dr Carlson.

The people were really nice

4 reasons I take my cats to Cat Clinic:
1. It is a feline only clinic. The calm, peaceful atmosphere has totally changed the stressful visit to the vet that my cats (and I) dreaded.
2. Dr. Carlson is a feline specialist. Her knowledge and compassion for cats is evident. Her exams are thorough and informative. Her recommendations are in the best interest of the cat… not her bottom line.
3. It is the cleanest clinic in town.
4. If you need to board your cat, the luxury condos are fabulous. No other boarding facility in town can compare.

I have known this clinic since June2012 when my kitty was diagnosed with FIP. I have been very satisfied with their services. Dr. Carlson and her assistant Lorianne, provide the best service they can for the felines. Highly recommended.