Jen, no one could ever accuse you of being a bad cat mommy so no more bad-mouthing yourself, OK? I can certainly understand, with the size of your "family," the desire to make vet visits more financially manageable. You make a good point about the yearly exam though. We tend to think of the shots as the most important part of their exam but it is all equally important. Even that glass thing with the numbers on it that Trevor dislikes so much can give us some insight as to how kitty is doing. I appreciate your bringing this topic up and I am sorry to hear of Willow's diagnosis. Excuse my ignorance, but what is a grade 3 heart murmur? It is worse the higher the number? Is there any treatment planned for Willow? **Hugs** to Willow and also to you.