Disclaimer: This article provides general guidance on veterinary clinics in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah as of February 2026. Clinic hours, fees, and services may change without notice. Oyen is not affiliated with any of the clinics listed here. Always call ahead to confirm availability. Reviews reflect individual experiences and may not represent every visit.
Finding a good vet in Kota Kinabalu isn't always straightforward. Unlike KL or Penang, Sabah has fewer options, and not every clinic is well-reviewed. If your cat or dog needs medical attention, you want to know exactly where to go.
We've researched 12 of the best-reviewed vet clinics across Kota Kinabalu and the surrounding areas, with real customer feedback from Google and Facebook reviews.
Here's what we'll cover:
- Quick comparison table of all 12 clinics
- Detailed clinic profiles with addresses, hours, and what pet parents say
- Government vet services in Sabah
- Emergency and after-hours options in KK
- FAQ about vet clinics in Kota Kinabalu
Quick Comparison — Best Vet Clinics in Kota Kinabalu
Use this table to find the right clinic for your area and needs. All clinics listed have positive customer feedback from Google or Facebook reviews.
| No. | Clinic | Area | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BDC Veterinary Clinic | Kolombong | Low-stress handling, client education |
| 2 | Kinabalu Animal Clinic | Kolombong | Well-equipped, exotic pets accepted |
| 3 | Purple Paws Veterinary Clinic | Penampang | Excellent customer service, cosy environment |
| 4 | SAMC (Luyang Branch) | Luyang | Late hours (till 10pm), emergency visits |
| 5 | SAMC (Kolombong Branch) | Kolombong | Multiple branches, established network |
| 6 | Companion Animal Clinic | Lintas | General care, central location |
| 7 | Sunny Garden Veterinary Clinic | Tuaran Road | Budget-friendly, cat-savvy vet |
| 8 | Century Animals Medical Centre | Penampang / Putatan | Multiple branches, established name |
| 9 | Pawland Veterinary Clinic | Metro Town | Modern facility, Dr Tracy's personalised care |
| 10 | Penampang Veterinary Clinic | Penampang | Long-established, general practice |
| 11 | Likas Veterinary Clinic | Likas | Convenient Likas area location |
| 12 | SAMC (Donggongon Branch) | Donggongon | Serves southern KK / Penampang area |
Kolombong and Inanam Area
The Kolombong and Inanam area is home to several popular vet clinics. This industrial zone might not look like a typical vet district, but it's where some of KK's most trusted clinics are based.
1. BDC Veterinary Clinic
BDC Veterinary Clinic opened in February 2020 and has quickly earned a reputation for quality care. Dr Annemarie focuses on low-stress handling, meaning your pet will be treated gently throughout the visit. Dr Sze Khay (ZK) is the clinic's go-to for surgical cases.
What sets BDC apart is their emphasis on client education. They take time to explain your pet's condition and preventive care options rather than just treating symptoms.
| BDC Veterinary Clinic | |
|---|---|
| Address | No. 2, Wei Hing Light Industrial Centre, Jalan Kilang, Kolombong, Inanam, 88450 Kota Kinabalu |
| Phone | 012-418 5100 |
| Hours | 9:20am - 12:30pm, 1:30pm - 5:30pm (lunch break 12:30pm - 1:30pm) |
| Services | Consultation, vaccination, surgery, X-ray, preventive care |
| Pets Seen | Cats and dogs (rarely exotic animals) |
| What Customers Say | Praised for low-stress approach and thorough explanations. Vets genuinely care about educating pet parents on behaviour and preventive care. |
2. Kinabalu Animal Clinic
Kinabalu Animal Clinic is one of the better-equipped clinics in KK. They accept not just cats and dogs but also exotic pets like iguanas and snakes, which is uncommon for Sabah. Their facility has proper medical equipment for diagnostics and procedures.
The clinic is well-known among KK pet parents for professional service and a team that takes time with each case.
| Kinabalu Animal Clinic | |
|---|---|
| Address | Lot 6, Lorong Durian 3, Kian Yap Industrial Estate, Kolombong, Inanam, 88450 Kota Kinabalu |
| Phone | 088-385 804 |
| Hours | Mon - Sat: 10:00am - 6:00pm | Sun: Closed |
| Services | Consultation, diagnostics, surgery, vaccination, exotic pet care |
| Pets Seen | Cats, dogs, iguanas, snakes, and other exotic pets |
| What Customers Say | Well-equipped clinic with professional vets. Customers appreciate the ability to bring exotic pets here, which is rare in Sabah. |
3. SAMC Kolombong Branch
Sabah Animal Medical Centre (SAMC) is the largest vet clinic network in Kota Kinabalu, with four branches across the city. The Kolombong branch serves the Inanam and northern KK area.
SAMC is the go-to for many KK pet parents simply because of convenience: multiple locations and longer operating hours than most clinics. Reviews are mixed, with some praising the service and others noting inconsistency, so your experience may vary depending on the branch and vet on duty.
| SAMC Kolombong Branch | |
|---|---|
| Address | G/F, Lot No. 25, Block C, Lorong Kompleks BSA, Jalan Kolombong, Inanam, 88450 Kota Kinabalu |
| Phone | 088-387 481 |
| Hours | Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 5:30pm | Sat - Sun: 8:00am - 4:00pm |
| Services | Consultation, vaccination, surgery, medical check-ups, emergency care |
| What Customers Say | Mixed reviews. Some praise "excellent service," while others note inconsistency. Best to call ahead and confirm which vet is on duty. |
Penampang Area
Penampang is just a short drive south of KK city centre and has become a hub for pet care services. Several well-regarded clinics operate along the Penampang bypass road.
4. Purple Paws Veterinary Clinic
Purple Paws is one of the most talked-about vet clinics in KK. Pet parents consistently praise the excellent customer service, friendly medical team, and the cosy, welcoming environment. Both pets and their owners feel comfortable here.
The clinic offers standard vet services including wellness exams, vaccinations, and surgeries. Their focus on making the visit a positive experience for your pet makes them stand out in KK.
| Purple Paws Veterinary Clinic | |
|---|---|
| Address | G/F, Lot No. 6, Jalan Windrose, Penampang By-Pass, 88300 Kota Kinabalu |
| Phone | 011-1668 5658 |
| Services | Wellness exams, vaccinations, surgery, general consultation |
| What Customers Say | Highly praised for excellent customer service, friendly medical team, and cosy environment. Pet parents say both they and their pets feel welcome here. |
5. Penampang Veterinary Clinic
Penampang Veterinary Clinic is one of the longer-established practices in the area. Located along Jalan Penampang (3rd Mile), it's been serving KK pet parents for years and is a familiar name among locals.
| Penampang Veterinary Clinic | |
|---|---|
| Address | Shop Lot 2, Teck Guan Villa, 3rd Mile, Jalan Penampang, 88300 Kota Kinabalu |
| Phone | 088-230 641 |
| Services | General consultation, vaccination, surgery |
| What Customers Say | Long-established clinic with a loyal customer base. Known as a reliable option in the Penampang area. |
6. Century Animals Medical Centre (Penampang)
Century Animals Medical Centre (CAMC) has been around for a long time and operates two branches: one along Penampang By-Pass and another in Putatan. They're one of the more established vet clinic names in Sabah.
| Century Animals Medical Centre | |
|---|---|
| Penampang Address | G/F, Lot 25, Block C, Plaza Utama, Jalan Penampang By-Pass, 88200 Kota Kinabalu |
| Putatan Address | G/F, Lot 6, Putatan Plaza, Jalan Putatan, 88300 Kota Kinabalu |
| Phone | 088-731 032 (Penampang) | 088-767 032 (Putatan) |
| Services | General consultation, vaccination, surgery, medical check-ups |
| What Customers Say | Established name in Sabah. Two branches give pet parents more options. Service quality varies by branch, so check reviews for the specific location you plan to visit. |
Luyang and City Centre Area
For pet parents living in or near KK city centre, the Luyang area offers one of the most convenient vet clinic options with extended hours.
7. SAMC Luyang Branch
This is SAMC's most accessible branch for those living in the city centre. The Luyang branch stays open until 10pm on weekdays and 9pm on weekends, making it the best option in KK for late visits or unexpected situations.
If your pet falls sick after regular clinic hours, SAMC Luyang is likely your best bet in Kota Kinabalu.
| SAMC Luyang Branch | |
|---|---|
| Address | Lot 4, G/F, Lorong Angsa 1, Taman Fu Yen Phase 3, 88300 Kota Kinabalu |
| Phone | 088-253 481 |
| Hours | Mon - Fri: 8:00am - 10:00pm | Sat, Sun & Public Holidays: 8:00am - 9:00pm |
| Services | Consultation, vaccination, emergency care, surgery, medical check-ups |
| What Customers Say | Most convenient option for after-hours visits. Extended hours until 10pm weekdays. Reviews are mixed across SAMC branches, so experience may vary. |
8. Companion Animal Clinic
Companion Animal Clinic sits along Jalan Penampang near Lintas, making it centrally located for most KK residents. It's a straightforward general practice that handles the usual range of cat and dog health needs.
| Companion Animal Clinic | |
|---|---|
| Address | Lot 3, Block E, Lintas Jaya Uptownship, Jalan Penampang, 88300 Kota Kinabalu |
| Phone | 088-728 991 |
| Services | General consultation, vaccination, surgery |
| What Customers Say | Centrally located and convenient. A solid general practice option for routine vet visits in KK. |
Tuaran Road and Metro Town Area
The northern stretch of KK along Tuaran Road and the newer Metro Town development also has vet clinics worth considering.
9. Sunny Garden Veterinary Clinic
Sunny Garden Veterinary Clinic is known for being one of the most affordable vet options in KK. The vet here is a cat person herself, so cat parents may find her especially knowledgeable about feline health concerns.
The clinic handles simple treatments well. Some reviewers have noted that for more complex cases, they may refer you elsewhere. That said, for routine check-ups, vaccinations, and minor issues, this is a solid budget-friendly choice.
| Sunny Garden Veterinary Clinic | |
|---|---|
| Address | Ground Floor, Fu Yen, Jalan Tuaran Batu 1 1/2, Sunny Garden, 88300 Kota Kinabalu |
| Phone | 088-257 275 |
| Hours | Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 12:30pm, 2:00pm - 6:00pm | Sat: 8:30am - 12:30pm, 2:00pm - 4:00pm | Sun: Closed |
| Services | Consultation, vaccination, basic treatments |
| What Customers Say | "The most reasonably charged vet in town." Staff and doctor are kind. The vet is a cat person and well-versed with feline care. Best for routine visits; complex cases may be referred elsewhere. |
10. Pawland Veterinary Clinic
Pawland is a newer clinic located in Metro Town, one of KK's modern commercial developments along Jalan Tuaran. Dr Tracy runs the clinic and is known for personalised care, treating pets of all sizes and breeds.
| Pawland Veterinary Clinic | |
|---|---|
| Address | No. G-0-5, Lot 53, Ground Floor, Block G, Metro Town, Jalan Bunga Ulam Raja, Off Jalan Tuaran, 88300 Kota Kinabalu |
| Phone | 012-232 8820 |
| Services | General consultation, vaccination, surgery, personalised pet care |
| What Customers Say | Modern facility in a convenient location. Dr Tracy is praised for being passionate and providing personalised care for pets of all sizes. |
Likas Area
11. Likas Veterinary Clinic
For pet parents in the Likas area, this clinic is a convenient option close to home. It serves the Taman Cempaka neighbourhood.
| Likas Veterinary Clinic | |
|---|---|
| Address | G/F, Lot 12, Lorong Kelabu, Taman Cempaka, 88400 Kota Kinabalu |
| Phone | 011-3144 4398 |
| Services | General consultation, vaccination, basic veterinary care |
| What Customers Say | Convenient location for Likas area residents. A good option for routine vet visits without travelling far. |
Donggongon Area
12. SAMC Donggongon Branch
The SAMC Donggongon branch serves the southern part of KK and the wider Penampang district. It's part of the SAMC network, giving you access to their multi-branch system.
| SAMC Donggongon Branch | |
|---|---|
| Address | G/F, Lot 12, HS, Jalan Penampang, Majukota Commercial Centre, 88300 Donggongon |
| Phone | 088-723 204 |
| Services | Consultation, vaccination, surgery, medical check-ups |
| What Customers Say | Convenient for southern KK residents. Part of the SAMC network with four branches across Kota Kinabalu. |
Government Vet Services in Sabah
Sabah has government veterinary services under the Jabatan Perkhidmatan Veterinar (DVS) Sabah. Government vet clinics offer subsidised rates for basic treatments like vaccinations, spaying, and neutering. Fees are significantly lower than private clinics.
The catch? Government clinics typically have limited hours, longer wait times, and may not handle complex medical cases. They're best for routine procedures like annual vaccinations and spay/neuter surgeries where cost is the primary concern.
| Government vs Private Vets | Government (DVS) | Private Clinics |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Subsidised (very affordable) | Market rate (varies by clinic) |
| Wait Times | Can be long (walk-in basis) | Shorter (appointments available) |
| Hours | Limited (weekday office hours) | Longer hours, some open weekends |
| Complex Cases | May refer to private clinic | More equipment and specialist services |
| Best For | Routine vaccinations, spay/neuter | Illness, emergencies, diagnostics |
For the full list of government vet clinics (Klinik Haiwan Kerajaan) in Malaysia, including those in Sabah, check our dedicated guide.
Emergency and After-Hours Vet Options in KK
KK does not have a true 24-hour vet hospital like those in KL. This is a reality of living in East Malaysia. Your best option for after-hours emergencies is SAMC Luyang, which stays open until 10pm on weekdays and 9pm on weekends.
For genuine overnight emergencies, you'll need to call the clinics below and check if any vet is available on-call. Save these numbers in your phone now so you're not scrambling at 2am.
| Clinic | Latest Hours | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| SAMC Luyang | Until 10pm (weekdays), 9pm (weekends) | 088-253 481 |
| Kinabalu Animal Clinic | Until 6pm (Mon-Sat) | 088-385 804 |
| BDC Veterinary Clinic | Until 5:30pm | 012-418 5100 |
For more emergency vet options across Malaysia, see our 24-hour emergency vet clinics directory.
Tips for Choosing a Vet in Kota Kinabalu
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Visit for a routine check first | Don't wait for an emergency to try a new clinic. A routine vaccination visit lets you assess the clinic, staff, and vet without pressure. |
| Check if they handle your pet type | Not all clinics see exotic pets. If you have a rabbit, iguana, or bird, call ahead. Kinabalu Animal Clinic is your best bet for exotics in KK. |
| Ask about after-hours policy | KK doesn't have 24-hour vet hospitals. Know your clinic's after-hours policy before you need it. SAMC Luyang has the latest hours. |
| Keep multiple clinic numbers saved | Your regular vet might be fully booked or closed. Having 2-3 backup options saves critical time in emergencies. |
| Ask about costs upfront | Vet costs in KK vary widely. Don't be shy about asking for a cost estimate before any procedure. A good clinic will be transparent. |
FAQ
Which is the best vet clinic in Kota Kinabalu?
It depends on your needs. BDC Veterinary Clinic is praised for low-stress handling and client education. Purple Paws is loved for customer service. Kinabalu Animal Clinic is best if you have exotic pets. For late hours, SAMC Luyang stays open until 10pm on weekdays.
Is there a 24-hour vet in Kota Kinabalu?
No, KK does not currently have a true 24-hour vet hospital. The latest option is SAMC Luyang, which is open until 10pm on weekdays and 9pm on weekends. For overnight emergencies, you'll need to call clinics to check for on-call availability.
How much does a vet consultation cost in KK?
A basic consultation at a private vet in KK typically ranges from RM30 to RM80, depending on the clinic. Government vet clinics charge subsidised rates. More specialised consultations, diagnostics, or procedures will cost more.
Are there vets in KK that treat exotic pets like iguanas or snakes?
Yes. Kinabalu Animal Clinic accepts exotic pets including iguanas and snakes. Most other clinics in KK focus on cats and dogs only, so always call ahead if you have an unusual pet.
Which vet in KK has the most affordable prices?
Sunny Garden Veterinary Clinic is often cited as "the most reasonably charged vet in town" by customers. Government vet clinics under DVS Sabah also offer subsidised rates for routine procedures like vaccinations and spaying.
How do I find a vet near me in Kota Kinabalu?
Check the area-by-area listings in this guide. KK's vet clinics are spread across Kolombong, Penampang, Luyang, Tuaran Road, and Likas. Pick the clinic closest to your home but also consider their hours, services, and reviews.
Can I use pet insurance at any vet clinic in Kota Kinabalu?
Yes. Oyen pet insurance covers vet visits at any licensed vet clinic in Malaysia, including all clinics in Kota Kinabalu. There's no panel restriction, so you can visit whichever vet you trust most. You pay the vet first, then submit your claim for reimbursement.
What should I do in a pet emergency in KK after hours?
Head to SAMC Luyang (open until 10pm weekdays, 9pm weekends) or call the clinics listed in this guide to check for on-call availability. Keep your vet's phone number saved for emergencies. For more tips, read our pet emergency first response guide.
Protecting Your Pet Starts Here
Vet visits in Kota Kinabalu can add up quickly, especially for unexpected illnesses or emergencies. Having a trusted vet is the first step. Having a financial safety net is the second.
With Oyen pet insurance, your cat or dog is covered for up to RM10,000/year in vet medical expenses at any licensed clinic in Malaysia, including every clinic listed in this guide. No panel restrictions, no geographical limits.
Check your pet's eligibility now — it takes less than 2 minutes.
