Your Pet's Physical Checkup
When you bring your four-legged friend into our Sonora veterinary clinic for a routine wellness exam, your vet will review your pet's medical history and ask about any specific concerns you may have.
Once your veterinarian is satisfied that they have all of the background information they need, they will perform a comprehensive physical checkup of your pet. This will usually include any or all of the following:
- Listening to your pet's heart and lungs
- Checking your pet's weight, stance, and gait
- Checking your pet's eyes for signs of redness, cloudiness, eyelid issues, excessive tearing, or discharge
- Inspecting the pet's coat for overall condition, dandruff, or abnormal hair loss
- Looking at your pet's feet and nails for damage or signs of more serious health concerns
- Looking at your pet's ears for signs of bacterial infection, ear mites, wax build-up, or polyps
- Examining the condition of your pet's teeth for any indications of periodontal disease, damage, or decay
- Examining your pet's skin for a range of issues from dryness to parasites to lumps and bumps (particularly in skin folds)
- Palpate your pet's abdomen to assess whether the internal organs appear to be normal and to check for signs of discomfort
- Feeling along your pet's body (palpating) for any signs of illness, such as swelling, evidence of lameness; such as limited range of motion, and signs of pain
These are designed to detect any signs of health problems in your pet. Because our dogs and cats cannot tell us when they are in pain, physical exams help to determine how your pet is feeling in general.
Great Questions to Ask a Vet
Veterinary appointments are always easier for you and your pet when you arrive fully prepared. This includes having the questions you want to ask ready to go. Being prepared allows you to get all the information you need to help keep your pet happy and healthy.
So, what questions to ask your veterinarian? Below, we provide a few examples that will help you get the most out of your pet's routine exam:
How is my pet's overall health?
- Starting with a general inquiry about your pet's well-being can help you gauge their overall health. Your vet can provide insights into your pet's weight, dental health, coat condition, and any signs of potential problems.
Is my pet up to date with their shots?
- Vaccines are a very important part of your cat or dog's preventative care. They must be kept up to date to help protect them from a wide range of serious and often life-threatening illnesses. Most veterinary clinics are happy to send clients a reminder when their pet is due for booster shots but, it's good to have a general idea of when your pet's next round of shots will be due.
Are my pet's teeth in good condition?
- Like people, our furry friends can suffer from a variety of dental health issues, many of which are preventable. Your veterinarian can provide you with valuable tips on how to care for your dog or cat's dental health at home, and let you know if it's time for your four-legged friend to have an in-depth dental examination and cleaning.
Is my pet's behavior normal?
- Pets do strange things that worry their owners, such as biting, wheezing, or itching. Always keep track of these behaviors and consult with your veterinarian if you suspect an underlying condition. You should also tell your veterinarian when these behaviors occurred so they can make an accurate diagnosis.
Is my pet's weight healthy?
- Pets of all breeds and ages must adhere to specific weight guidelines to live healthy lives. Even a few extra pounds over or underweight can put them at risk for a variety of serious health problems, or be a sign of an underlying illness, such as hyperthyroidism or diabetes. If your cat or dog is overweight or underweight, your veterinarian can determine whether there is an underlying cause and work with you to develop a plan to help your pet achieve a healthy weight.
Are there any changes to my pet's diet that I should consider?
- Diet plays a crucial role in your pet's health, and your veterinarian can offer valuable advice on the right nutrition for your furry companion. Ask about appropriate portion sizes, feeding schedules, and any dietary modifications specific to your pet's breed, age, or medical conditions.
Do you recommend a specific flea or tick prevention product for my pet?
- Fleas and ticks are not only bothersome for both pets and their owners, they also spread numerous serious diseases including Lyme Disease. With so many different products available, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your pet. Fortunately, your veterinarian will be able to recommend or prescribe a prevention product that will work best for your pet.
Can you explain my bill to me, please?
- When the staff at your veterinary office hands you the bill, please ask this question if you don't understand the charges. To give you a better understanding of the services offered, your veterinarian will be able to break down the costs and explain what each fee represents. It can also help you plan your next visit.
When should I schedule the next appointment?
- Finally, discuss when you should schedule the next routine exam for your four-legged friend. Establishing a regular check-up schedule ensures that your pet receives ongoing preventive care and allows any emerging health issues to be addressed before they become more serious concerns.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets.