If your pet is due for a checkup, you may be wondering what to expect and if there's anything you should do to be prepared. To get the most out of your pet's routine exam appointment, ask your veterinarian these important questions suggested by our North Fort Myers vets.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Routine Checkup
When you bring your dog or cat to our North Fort Myers veterinary clinic for a checkup, the vet will review your pet's medical history and ask about any specific concerns.
After these initial steps, the veterinarian will perform a physical checkup of your pet, which will usually include any or all of the following:
- Listening to your pet's heart and lungs
- Checking your animal's weight, stance, and gait
- 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 dog or cat'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
- 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
- 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 tests are designed to detect any signs of health problems in your pet. Since our dogs and cats cannot communicate when they are in pain, these tests and checks help determine how your pet is feeling overall.
Common Questions That You Can Ask Your Vet
Veterinary appointments are always easier for you and your pet when you are fully prepared, which includes having the questions you want to ask ready to go. Being prepared ahead of time allows you to get all the information you need to help keep your pet happy and healthy. Below, the vets at our North Fort Myers animal clinic provide some questions they feel are important for pet parents to ask:
Is my pet in need of any routine vaccinations?
Vaccines are a crucial part of your cat or dog's preventive care. Keeping them up to date helps protect your pet from a wide range of serious and often life-threatening illnesses and diseases. The veterinarians at our North Fort Myers 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. It would be best to 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 challenging to determine whether your pet is overweight or underweight. Pets of all breeds and ages need to follow specific weight guidelines to live healthy lives. Even a few extra pounds, whether over or underweight, can put your pet at risk for various health problems, some of which can be life-threatening. 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, knowing which one is best for you and your pet can be difficult. Fortunately, your veterinarian will be able to recommend or prescribe a prevention product that will work best for your pet.
Can you please explain the items on my bill?
When you receive the bill from your veterinary office, please ask this question if you don't understand the charges. Your veterinarian will be able to break down the costs and explain what each fee represents, giving you a better understanding of the services offered. This can also help you plan your next visit.
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.