Checking In on Your Pets Health & Well-Being
Routine examinations, in combination with regular vaccinations, parasite prevention, and proper nutrition, are key to maintaining longstanding health in cats and dogs.
When you bring your pet in for routine checkups, we may be able to prevent health issues from developing or catch them early, when they are most treatable.
Your veterinarian at Animal Hospital of Milton will give your companion a physical checkup in order to get a picture of his or her overall health. They'll also provide you with expert guidance to help you maintain their optimal health between appointments, and give you the knowledge you need to spot signs of illness and disease.
What to Expect During an Exam
Knowing what is going to happen during your dog or cat's routine exam can help you prepare your pet for certain aspects of the exam. Your veterinarian will start with a thorough, head-to-tail, assessment so it is important that they are used to being handled.
Your veterinarian will also check whether your pet is due for any routine vaccinations or preventive care.
Once your pet's exam has been completed, your veterinarian will take time to discuss any concerns they may have about your pet's overall health and talk to you about your dog or cat's nutritional requirements.
Pet checkups at our Milton veterinary clinic typically include an examination of each of the following elements of your furry friend's health:
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General Condition
Your dog or cat's general demeanour and physical condition can actually provide a great deal of insight into their overall health. How they stand and walk, their level of alertness, and whether they are a healthy weight for their size are all important indicators of overall health.
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Coat & Skin
During your cat or dog's checkup, your veterinarian will examine their skin and coat for anything that causes concern. This can include excessive oiliness or dryness, lumps, bumps, dandruff, or abnormal hair loss.
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Face & Head
Your companion's checkup will include an examination of their eyes, ears, and nose. Your veterinarian will look for any irregularities or unusual discharge coming from these areas.
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Teeth & Mouth
The teeth, gums, and mouth will be thoroughly examined for indications of oral health issues, such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease, to help determine if your dog or cat needs dental treatment.
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Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are essential elements of your dog or cat's heart health. We'll check these to ensure they're normal. We will listen to the lungs to check for evidence of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling, and we will also palpate the abdomen to ensure the intestines, kidneys, bladder, spleen, liver, and stomach all feel normal, and that your pet is not exhibiting any signs of discomfort.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
To help get your puppy or kitten off to a healthy start in life, proper medical care is essential during the first few weeks of life. Our team will perform a physical examination of your new fur baby and provide immunizations and deworming medication as needed. We will also test for intestinal parasites.
Once your puppy or kitten's first checkup is complete, you will need to bring them in periodically for their required booster shots.
Learn More About Puppies & Kittens
Checkups for Seniors
As dogs and cats enter their senior years, regular examinations play an increasingly important role in ensuring their continuing good health. During your senior pet's wellness exam, your veterinarian will be particularly watchful for signs of potential age-related conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis or decreased vision.
Additional lab testing may be recommended in order to provide you with a more detailed diagnosis of your senior pet's condition and provide a customized treatment plan.