Lifestage Wellness: Examinations
Why does my pet need semi-annual wellness examinations?
A semi-annual wellness examination gives your veterinarian the chance to evaluate your pet's overall health and to detect problems before they turn into serious illnesses. Because your pet cannot tell you in words how he or she is feeling, the veterinarian must rely on a thorough physical examination and your observations of your pet in order to determine if your pet is truly healthy.
How often should my pet receive a wellness examination?
Because your pet ages more quickly than you do, it is essential that you take your pet to the veterinarian on a semi-annual basis. Taking your pet to the veterinarian every six months is the same as if you were to see your physician for a physical exam every 3-4 years. Because so much can change with regard to your pet's physical health in such a short amount of time, you can't afford to have your pet miss even one exam.
What will happen during my pet's wellness examination?
Your veterinarian will ask several questions about your pet's heath history. Be sure to mention any unusual behavior. Some examples are:
- Excessive urination
- Excessive drinking of water
- Excessive panting
- Eating much more than usual
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive scratching
- Coughing
- Weight gain
- Weight loss
Notes will be made on your pet's diet, on how much water your pet consumes, and on a variety of daily behavioral patters. Other questions you can expect about your pet's health are:
- Does your pet have trouble getting up in the morning?
- Does your pet show any signs of weakness?
- Does your pet have exercise intolerance?
Your veterinarian will also discuss your pet's exposure to fleas, ticks, heartworms and intestinal parasites at some point during the examination. The protocol for prevention recommended by your veterinarian depends on where you live, your pet's lifestyle and age, and many other factors.
Your veterinarian and the medical support staff will note your pet's temperature, pulse, respiration rate and body weight. Weight loss since your pet's last exam could indicate early stages of a metabolic disease, such as diabetes or kidney disease. Weight is an important consideration in the health of a pet; an extra two or three pounds can mean the difference between your pet being fit and trim or obese. Talk to your veterinarian about appropriate diet and exercise for your pet.
You will probably be asked if your dog or cat has been shaking his or her head or scratching at their ears and if you have noticed any odor coming from the ears. Your pet's deep, curved ear canals provide protection for the inner ear, but these canals also are a snug home for parasites and foreign objects. Your veterinarian will take a close look to make sure nothing appears out of the ordinary.
Many conditions, such as anemia, infections, glaucoma, cataracts, high blood pressure, jaundice, kidney problems and allergies, are often discovered through eye examinations. Previous nutritional status can be assessed by examining the eyes. Injuries and ulcers of the eye also can be detected during examination. Your veterinarian may observe the inner structures of the eyes as well as their outward appearance.
Your veterinarian will check your pet's gums, teeth, tongue and palate for tartar build-up, dental abnormalities, fractures, loose teeth, tumors, infections and other problems. For example, a lack of red or pink in the lining of the lips and gums could indicate anemia. One of the practice's team members will show you how to care for your pet's teeth to prevent periodontal disease, which can cause bad breath and tooth loss.
Your veterinarian will use a stethoscope to listen to your pet's heart and lungs. The early signs of heart disease are often recognized during a routine health exam.
Your pet's reproductive system will be examined for swellings, discharges and breast lumps. If your pet has not been spayed or neutered, your veterinarian will explain that spaying or neutering provides many health benefits beyond birth control.
The skin is the body's largest organ and a good indicator of your pet's health. Your veterinarian will examine the condition of the skin and hair as a means of detecting allergies, infections, warts and tumors. The veterinarian will also check for fleas, ticks, other external parasites, tumors and other wounds while examining the skin.
Your veterinarian will feel the abdomen to detect irregularities such as enlarged organs, masses or areas that are painful. Problems with the stomach, intestines, kidneys, liver and other organs may be detected at this stage. The legs and feet of your pet will be checked. The condition of joints, muscles, lymph nodes and nose will also be noted.
If any abnormalities are found during your pet's examination, your veterinarian may recommend additional test to diagnose or confirm a health problem.
Do not underestimate the importance of your pet's wellness examination. Taking your pet to the veterinarian on a semi-annual basis can help your pet live a longer and healthier life.