Nora
Nope, you won't get any argument from me there. Contraindicated in my opinion.
They're supposed to be cat experts (they don't treat other animals) but as I'm sure you've figured out, they are victims of their own training, the profitable, "cut-poison-burn" deal.
I won't subject this loving little creature to anesthesia or drugs, and frankly I have a great deal of guilt over having VACCINATED her, which is what caused her cancer. I did that out of ignorance.
The tumor isn't growing, she's gaining weight and her energy is getting better on the herbal tinctures, I'd like to save the teeth too, even though some people seem to think they should go...
I don't have a regular phone, just one with a couple minutes for an emergency. Hubby carries one for work, which I have access to at night, so that makes Skype a no starter, that's why I keep going to the conventional vet. (and am usually broke afterwards)
I like to palp, feel the abdomen, see the coat, look at the eyes, look at the TEETH. I study her and I think a good vet would need to do that physical, whole-cat looksee too, but I can't drive to Vermont to effect it! On your good advice, I'll continue to ignore Dr. Whitcoat's suggestions when my gut tells me they're not right, I think. Heck, the Russians are even re-growing teeth, so there is a lot more to know here. Thanks for weighing in, y'all.