Look inside cages to see if the patients have something to lie on, and if the cages and runs are clean and dry. Use judgment, but don't hesitate to ask questions about kennel procedures. There may be some specific reason for a cage to be set up a certain way. You may be concerned about a cat in a cage without a water bowl. That cat could be scheduled for surgery or may be undergoing a diagnostic procedure that requires that water be withheld.
Larger hospitals have more equipment in-house.
That doesn't mean that if some procedures like an EKG, for instance, can't be done right there, that the hospital is substandard. Establish that the doctors do have access to diagnostic tools or specialty services either through teaching hospitals, referral centers, a central hospital, or mobile veterinarians, and that they are willing to use them or make the referral when necessary. Keep in mind that how you are treated and how your questions are answered does reflect on the quality of care at a hospital. Many vets offer boarding. They may board both dogs and cats, only cats, anyone's pets, or just their clients' pets.