Is your cat or dog due for a checkup with the vet? If so, you might be wondering what questions to ask your veterinarian and if there's anything you should do to come prepared. In this post, our Johns Creek vets offer an important list of inquiries to bring with you to your pet's appointment.
What Will Happen During Your Pet's Routine Checkup
When you bring your dog or cat to our veterinary clinic for a wellness exam, your vet will review your pet's medical history and status, and ask you about any specific concerns you may have.
After this initial discussion, your veterinarian will perform a physical exam of your pet, which will typically include any or all of the following:
- Checking your pet's weight, stance, and gait
- Checking your pet's eyes for signs of eyelid issues, excessive tearing, redness, discharge, or cloudiness
- Listening to your pet's heart and lungs
- Examining your pet's nails and feet for damage or symptoms of more serious health issues
- Examining your dog or cat's skin for a variety of issues, from dryness to lumps and bumps (especially in skin folds) and parasites
- Examining the condition of your pet's teeth for any indications of decay, damage, or periodontal disease.
- Inspecting your pet's coat for general condition, abnormal hair loss, or dandruff
- Looking at your dog or cat's ears for signs of wax buildup, polyps, ear mites, or. bacterial infection
- Feeling along your pet's body (palpating) or any symptoms of illness, like swelling, signs of pain, or evidence of lameness such as limited range of motion
- Palpating your pet's abdomen to check whether internal organs appear to be normal and to look for signs of discomfort
All of these tests are designed to detect any symptoms of health problems in your cat or dog. Because our pets cannot tell us when they are in pain, these tests and checks help to determine how your pet is feeling generally.
Common Questions That You Can Ask Your Vet
Your pet's veterinary appointment will go smoother if your are both prepared for the visit. To get ready, have the questions you want to ask on hand. Being prepared ahead of time will help you get all the information you need to keep your pet happy and healthy.
Here are some questions the vets at our animal clinic in Johns Creek feel are important for pet parents to ask:
Is my pet in need of any routine vaccinations?
Vaccines are a very important part of your cat or dog's preventative care. They have to be kept up to date to help protect them from a wide range of serious and often life-threatening illnesses and diseases. The vets at our Johns Creek vet clinic always do their best to inform you when your pet is due for their booster shots however, it can sometimes be overlooked so it's always best to ask.
Are there any concerns with my pet's behavior?
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.
Do you have any recommendations for my pet's diet and nutrition?
It can be difficult to determine whether your pet is overweight or underweight. Pets of all breeds and ages must adhere to specific weight guidelines in order to live healthy lives. Even a few extra pounds over or underweight can put your pet at risk for a variety of health problems (some of which are life-threatening), making this a critical question. If your cat or dog is overweight, your veterinarian will work with you to develop a diet and exercise plan to help your pet lose weight.
What prevention medication should my pet have?
Fleas and ticks are not only bothersome for both pets and their owners, but they also spread a number of serious diseases. With so many different products available, it can be difficult to know which one is best for you and 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 the items on my bill, please?
When the staff at your veterinary office hands you the bill, please ask this question if you don't understand the charges. Your veterinarian can break down the costs and explain what each fee represents so you can gain a better understanding of the services offered. This will also help you plan your pet's next appointment.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.