Feline Veterinarian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era where pet care and wellness is of utmost importance, the role of feline veterinarians has never been more critical.

As the love for our furry companions grows, so does the need for skilled professionals who can provide, enhance, and safeguard their health and wellbeing.

But what does it truly mean to be a feline veterinarian?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the demands of this role,
• A hiring manager attempting to outline the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complex world of feline veterinary science,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive feline veterinarian job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Feline Veterinarian Duties and Responsibilities

Feline Veterinarians are specialized professionals who address the health and well-being of cats.

They are dedicated to diagnosing and treating diseases, injuries, and illnesses, as well as promoting overall feline health.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Performing comprehensive physical examinations to diagnose diseases and injuries in cats
• Performing various surgical procedures such as spaying, neutering, and other corrective surgeries
• Administering vaccinations to prevent common illnesses
• Providing emergency care to critically ill or injured cats
• Advising and educating cat owners on proper nutrition, behavioral issues, and overall wellness
• Prescribing medication or treatment plans for ongoing medical conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease
• Performing diagnostic tests such as blood work, X-rays, and ultrasounds
• Keeping accurate, detailed patient records
• Communicating effectively with cat owners, veterinary technicians, and other veterinary professionals

 

Feline Veterinarian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Feline Veterinarian to join our team.

The candidate will be responsible for the health and wellness of our feline patients, providing preventive care, diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries, and offering expert advice to pet owners on proper feline care.

Our ideal candidate is experienced in managing the medical needs unique to cats and is dedicated to providing the highest quality of veterinary care.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive physical examinations and diagnostic tests on cats
• Diagnose diseases and provide appropriate medical treatment
• Perform surgical procedures as necessary
• Offer advice to cat owners on feeding, behavior, and breeding
• Provide preventive healthcare and advice on pet health maintenance
• Handle emergency cases efficiently and effectively
• Maintain patient records
• Stay up-to-date on the latest medical research and practices

 

Qualifications

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree
• State licensure to practice veterinary medicine
• Proven experience as a Feline Veterinarian
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Knowledge of cat-specific medical issues and treatments
• Ability to perform surgical procedures
• Compassionate and professional manner

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Veterinary services discount

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Feline Veterinarian
• Work Environment: Animal clinic or hospital. May require after-hours emergency services.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Veterinary Practice Manager or Chief of Staff.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Feline Veterinarian Do?

Feline Veterinarians are specialized professionals within the veterinary field who primarily treat cats.

They diagnose and treat a variety of diseases and conditions that affect cats.

This includes conducting regular check-ups, administering vaccinations, and providing preventative care such as flea and tick treatments.

Feline Veterinarians also perform surgical procedures, such as spaying and neutering, as well as more complex operations to treat injuries or serious illnesses.

They also provide advice to cat owners on proper feline care and nutrition, including information on how to handle behavioral issues.

Feline Veterinarians work closely with veterinary technicians and assistants to provide comprehensive care.

They may also refer patients to veterinary specialists when necessary.

In the event of a serious illness or injury, the Feline Veterinarian may also provide end-of-life care and counseling to the pet owners.

 

Feline Veterinarian Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Feline Veterinarian should have the skills and qualifications that line up with the unique demands of this role, such as:

• Comprehensive knowledge of feline anatomy, diseases, and treatments to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to clearly explain medical procedures, conditions, and care requirements to cat owners.
• Strong observational and diagnostic skills to accurately identify and interpret signs of disease or injury in cats that cannot verbally communicate their symptoms.
• Patience and empathy to handle nervous or distressed animals and their concerned owners.
• Proficiency in performing a variety of veterinary surgeries and procedures specific to felines.
• Ability to work well in a team with veterinary technicians and assistants, and collaborate with other veterinarians for challenging cases.
• Continuous learning attitude to stay updated about the latest research and advances in feline medicine.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills to manage a high volume of patients.

 

Feline Veterinarian Experience Requirements

Candidates interested in a Feline Veterinarian position generally need to hold a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited institution.

This usually includes comprehensive coursework and hands-on training in areas related to feline medicine, surgery, and general care.

To gain the necessary experience, many students participate in internships or residency programs that offer in-depth exposure to feline health and wellness.

These programs usually provide a wealth of practical experience with common procedures and medical conditions that affect cats.

Entry-level Feline Veterinarians may have 1 to 2 years of experience working under the guidance of a more seasoned veterinarian.

This role often involves gaining experience with preventive care, treatment of diseases, surgical procedures, and the management of various health conditions in cats.

Veterinarians with 3 to 5 years of experience often expand their skills and knowledge by taking on more complex cases, involving internal medicine, dentistry, dermatology or other specialized areas of feline healthcare.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have developed a sub-specialty, such as feline oncology or geriatric care, which makes them highly sought after in their field.

They may also have some managerial experience, overseeing a team of veterinary technicians and support staff, and could be ready for a leadership position in a veterinary practice or hospital.

Continuing education is crucial for all Feline Veterinarians, as the field constantly evolves with new research and advancements in veterinary medicine.

Therefore, regular participation in seminars, workshops, and courses is often a requirement for maintaining licensure and staying updated on the latest feline health information.

 

Feline Veterinarian Education and Training Requirements

A Feline Veterinarian typically must have a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited veterinary college, as well as a state license.

The DVM program usually takes 4 years to complete and includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical rotations.

Subjects covered include animal anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, immunology, and pathology, with specialized courses on feline medicine.

In order to obtain a state license, aspiring feline veterinarians must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination.

Some states may require additional state-level exams or jurisprudence exams that focus on state laws and regulations.

Many feline veterinarians choose to become board certified in feline practice by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP).

The certification process includes residency or equivalent practice experience and a rigorous examination.

Certification signifies a higher level of expertise in feline medicine and can improve job prospects.

Continuing education is important for feline veterinarians to stay updated with the latest advancements in feline medicine.

This can be achieved through professional development courses, seminars, and conferences.

 

Feline Veterinarian Salary Expectations

A Feline Veterinarian can expect to earn an average salary of $95,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ based on experience, specialization, location, and the nature of the employing organization or clinic.

 

Feline Veterinarian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Feline Veterinarian need?

Feline Veterinarians should have excellent veterinary skills, specifically in feline medicine.

They should be knowledgeable about various feline diseases and conditions, as well as their treatments.

They should also have good communication skills to be able to explain medical conditions and treatments to pet owners.

They must also be empathetic, patient, and have a genuine love for cats.

 

Do Feline Veterinarians need a degree?

Yes, Feline Veterinarians need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited veterinary college.

They also need to pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) to become licensed to practice.

Some may also choose to pursue further specialization in feline medicine from organizations such as the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP).

 

What should you look for in a Feline Veterinarian’s resume?

A Feline Veterinarian’s resume should reflect their DVM degree and a valid veterinary license.

It should also show any specialty certifications or training relevant to feline medicine.

Look for experience working with cats, whether in a veterinary clinic, animal hospital, or even volunteer work in animal shelters.

Any research or publications related to feline medicine could also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Feline Veterinarian?

A good Feline Veterinarian is compassionate, understanding, and patient, as working with cats can sometimes be challenging.

They should have strong problem-solving skills and be able to make quick decisions in emergencies.

They should also be comfortable communicating with pet owners, explaining medical conditions and treatments, and providing emotional support when needed.

 

Is it difficult to hire Feline Veterinarians?

Hiring Feline Veterinarians can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires candidates with specific veterinary skills, a deep understanding of feline health, and a love for cats.

The pool of candidates with these qualifications can be relatively small, making the hiring process competitive.

Offering competitive salaries, benefits, and a supportive work environment can help attract the right candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the realities of being a feline veterinarian.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not just about treating sick cats.

It’s about safeguarding the health of our feline friends and enhancing their quality of life, one patient at a time.

With our comprehensive feline veterinarian job description template and tangible examples, you’re ready to take a leap.

But why not go further?

Immerse yourself with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every cat patient you treat contributes to the broader scope of feline health.

Let’s improve their lives. Together.

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