OP, did they do a urinalysis and test for a UTI? Sounds possible, given your cat's symptoms.

Anonymous wrote:Concur this is why we have pet insurance.

We get it through VPI (Warren Buffett's group) but the ASPCA also offers it (not sure who the underwriter is).

We also have VPI for our dogs. Just submitted a $3200 bill - waiting to see what we get back.

OP - I agree with the previous posters. As a sidenote: we also go to Petworth Animal Hospital for routine dentals. The most I've spent for a dental was $120.

If they can get away with it, yes. They tend to charge according that what they can get -- my richer friends it is $2k, more poorer friends it is $500. Yes, it is a scam. Your cat has cancer. I am very sorry but do you really think that pouring money into the cat is going to cure the cancer? More like cause a lot of suffering for the poor animal and make you broke. I do not want to sound mean, but I hate the way vets take advantage. Very very sorry about your cat.

Wait and see.

It's not only the cost aspect.
It's the discomfort to the animal if invasive procedures are not going to make him feel better or cure him. This is actually the most important consideration for me.