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Physical Examinations

All pets need to be examined at least once a year in order to prevent or detect health problems. The physical examination is also an opportunity for you to discuss important wellness issues with your pet’s doctor. It’s one of the best ways to help your pet keep healthy and around as long as possible.

The main benefits for puppies and kittens is to make sure they’re growing properly and getting the right vaccinations and medications, as well as to spot any inborn abnormalities or parasite infestations. Adult pets benefit from examinations because they can help to catch health problems before they become more serious. Exams on senior pets can prevent or manage the onset of many age-related chronic diseases such as arthritis, cancer, dental problems, diabetes, kidney disease, or heart trouble.

The frequency of exams depends on the stage of life you pet is in. Any new pets of all ages should be examined immediately. This not only ensures that your new friend is healthy, but also that he or she cannot transmit any health problems to you or your family. Puppies and kittens need to be examined more frequently than adults up until about one year of age on a schedule recommended by your veterinarian. Adult pets, one year and older, should be examined at least once every 12 months. Senior pets, over 7 years, or any pet suffering from a chronic health problem, should be seen at least twice a year. One adult dog or cat year equates to approximately 4 human years. So examining a senior pet every 6 months is similar to an older person getting a check-up every 2 years.

Your pet’s routine annual veterinary visit usually includes several components. A health consultation is performed where your veterinarian will ask questions about your pet’s daily routine and make health care and nutritional recommendations appropriate for your pet’s stage of life. A hands-on examination is performed during which your veterinarian will check your pet’s musculoskeletal system, abdomen, listen to your pet’s heart and lungs with a stethoscope and examine your pet’s eyes, ears and mouth. If needed vaccinations will be given depending on your pet’s age and exposure. A fecal examination may be performed to check for intestinal parasites. Additional recommendations on routine wellness care might be offered such as parasite prevention, heartworm testing, heartworm prevention and dental cleanings.

Some things that your veterinarian will examine include:

• Discharge

• Swelling or growths

• Respiratory sounds

• Gum color

• Condition of teeth and gums

• Inflammation or redness

• Cloudiness in the eyes

• Pain on palpation of the abdomen

• Organ enlargement or irregularity

• Presence of any bloating or gas

• Evidence of any inflammation or discomfort in the anal area

• Breathing pattern

• Lung sounds

• Heart rate and rhythm

• Heart sounds (murmurs, extra beats, missed beats)

• Lameness, pain, or weakness in the spine or any limb

• Muscle tone

• Joint function

Contact Bradshaw Veterinary Clinic today at (916) 685-2494
to make an appointment for an annual exam for your pet!

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