Prepare for your pet's veterinary appointment by knowing exactly what questions you want to ask your vet. This will ensure you get all the necessary information to keep your pet healthy and happy. Our veterinarians in Los Angeles County have put together a list of important questions for you to ask.
What is a pet routine exam?
When you bring your dog or cat to our veterinary clinic in Los Angeles County for a routine checkup, your vet will review your pet's medical history and ask about any specific concerns you might have.
After that, your veterinarian will conduct a physical checkup of your pet, which may include one or more of the following:
- Listening to your pet's heart and lungs
- Checking your animal'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 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
- 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
- Administration of vaccinations or boosters that are due.
These tests aim to identify any signs of illness in your pet. Since our dogs and cats cannot communicate in pain, these tests and checks help determine your pet's overall well-being.
What Questions You Should Ask Your Vet
Remember to prepare for your veterinary appointment by having your questions ready to ask your vet. Being prepared will help you get all the necessary information to care for your cat or dog and keep them happy and healthy. In the next section, the veterinarians at our Los Angeles County animal clinic will list important questions to ask your vet and explain why they are important.
Is my pet up to date with their shots?
Vaccines are crucial in safeguarding your cat or dog's preventive healthcare. It would be best to keep them current to shield your pets from a broad spectrum of severe and potentially life-threatening illnesses and diseases. Our Los Angeles County veterinary clinic's professionals consistently strive to notify you when your pet requires booster shots. Nevertheless, it's advisable always to inquire, as this important task may occasionally be overlooked.
Is my pet's behavior normal?
Pets often perform peculiar actions that can frighten their owners, such as biting, wheezing, or itching. It is crucial to closely monitor these behaviors and promptly seek advice from your veterinarian if you suspect an underlying condition. Additionally, inform your veterinarian about these behavior occurrences to facilitate an accurate diagnosis.
Is my pet's weight healthy?
It can be difficult to determine whether your pet is overweight or underweight. All breeds and ages of pets must adhere to specific weight restrictions to ensure they lead long, healthy lives. This is important as even a slight deviation in weight, whether over or under, can expose your pet to various health issues, some of which can be life-threatening. Your veterinarian will work with you to establish a diet and exercise plan to help your cat or dog shed excess weight if they are overweight.
Do you recommend a specific flea or tick prevention product for my pet?
Both pets and their owners detest fleas and ticks for their annoyance and potential to carry dangerous diseases. With numerous options available, it can be challenging to determine the best product for you and your pet. Fortunately, your vet can recommend or prescribe a prevention product that will offer the highest effectiveness for your pet.
Can you explain my bill to me, please?
Please ask this query when your veterinarian hands you the bill. Your veterinarian will be able to break down the costs and explain what each fee entails to give you a clearer idea of the services being provided. It can assist you in preparing for your upcoming trip.
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.