During routine exams, your vet will check for early symptoms of illness, internal damage, and other serious conditions that should be addressed. Our vets in Diamond Bar explain why regular veterinary checkups are essential.
Why are routine vet checkups important?
By taking your animal to visit the vet regularly, you allow your veterinarian to assess your pet's general health, and test for diseases, illnesses and conditions that can be difficult to identify in their early stages (including cancers and parasites). This way, treatment can begin before the situation gets any worse.
How often should my pet see the vet for a checkup?
Your pet's medical history and age will determine how often they should see the veterinarian for a checkup.
If your cat or dog has a history of illness but is currently healthy, we recommend booking an appointment at your vet's at least twice each year to ensure your pet stays as healthy as possible.
Some otherwise healthy pets, such as senior dogs and cats, or giant breed dogs, face an increased risk of many conditions and should also see a veterinarian at least twice a year to monitor for early signs of illness.
As the immune system of puppies and kittens is still developing, they can be especially susceptible to many illnesses that adult pets are easily able to overcome. For this reason, your vet might recommend booking a monthly checkup.
Typically, an adult dog or cat with no history of illness should see a vet for a checkup on a yearly basis.
How to Prepare
Your vet will need the following basic medical information about your canine or feline companion, especially if this is your pet's first visit. Bring notes on their:
- Eating and drinking habits
- Recent travel history
- Current medications (names and doses)
- Past medical records, including vaccine history
- Tick bites
- Food (what kind do they eat)
- Toilet habits
- In some cases, you’ll be asked to collect and bring along a fresh sample of your pet’s feces (bowel movement) so a fecal exam can be completed
You may also want to bring a favorite blanket or toy for your pet's comfort. While dogs should be on a leash, cats should be in a carrier.
What does a checkup for pets involve?
While the vet may need to do more depending on your pet’s needs, the physical exam will usually cover the following points:
- Measuring your pet’s gait, stance, and weight
- Using a stethoscope to listen to your pet’s lungs and heart
- Looking into the eyes for signs of cloudiness, discharge, excessive tearing, cloudiness or redness. Will also look for issues with eyelids
- Checking for any signs of illness by feeling along your pet’s body (palpating). These symptoms include lameness or limited range of motion, or signs of swelling or pain
- Feeling the abdomen to check whether internal organs appear normal, and to check for signs of pain or discomfort
- Checking your pet’s nails and feet for signs of significant health concerns or damage
- Examining your pet’s ears for signs of wax buildup, polyps, ear mites or bacterial infection
- Inspecting the condition of the teeth for any indications of decay, damage or periodontal disease
- Examining your furry companion’s coat to assess overall condition, as well as look for signs of abnormal hair loss or dandruff
- Inspecting your cat’s or dog’s skin for numerous issues — from bumps or lumps (especially in folds of skin) to dryness and parasites
If no issues are detected along the way, your vet can likely run through this list quickly — they may even chat with you as they do so. If an issue is identified, your vet will explain what they have noticed and recommend next steps or potential treatments.
Annual vaccinations are also administered during a cat or dog checkup, based on the appropriate schedule for your pet.
Ending the Vet Checkup
Once your pet has been examined, tested and given their annual vaccines, your vet will dedicate time to explaining their findings to you.
If the veterinarian has found any signs of injury or illness, they will recommend more detailed diagnostics or potential treatment options to help.
If your pet is healthy overall, this discussion may focus on improvements to exercise, diet routines, or caring for your pet’s oral health. Overall wellness, and preventing parasites will be prioritized moving forward.
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.