Even if your pet seems perfectly healthy, it is still important to book in that annual health check with your vet. Dogs and cats are living longer than ever before, so itโs crucial that the beginnings of any health issues are detected before they become serious.
What happens during an annual health check for your pet?
Regular check-ups are the best way to make sure your pet is in top shape.
During the appointment, your vet will undertake a thorough physical examination. They will check your petโs eyes and ears, take their temperature, and listen to their heart and lungs. They will also feel for any abnormalities in the lymph nodes, legs, and abdomen, as well as having a good look at their coat and skin to check for any signs of irritation or lumps and bumps.
A dental check is another key component of an annual check-up. The Australian Veterinary Association has found that 80% of dogs and cats over the age of 3 have some level of dental disease. By thoroughly checking for any signs of dental issues or gum disease, your vet can determine if your petโs teeth require cleaning or any further treatment. If left untreated, dental disease will not only affect your petโs teeth โ infections can lead to serious illnesses which can be life-threatening.
Preventative treatment
As your pet ages, it is inevitable that they will develop health issues during their lifetime. However, many of these issues can either be prevented โ or lessened โ with some preventative actions.
Many serious diseases and illnesses that can affect dogs and cats are completely preventable with regular vaccination. During your petโs health check, your vet will discuss the different vaccinations available and will recommend a vaccination program that is tailored to you and your pet.
Your petโs weight will also be reviewed. An overweight cat or dog will typically have a lower life expectancy and is much more likely to be diagnosed with serious health complications such as diabetes and musculoskeletal conditions. At each check-up, your pet will be weighed, and their weight tracked from each visit. Your vet will also provide you with advice regarding diet and exercise to help your pet maintain a healthy weight.
Discussion of your concerns
An annual health check is a great opportunity for you to discuss any behavioural or diet-related queries you may have regarding your pet.
If your cat or dog is displaying abnormal behaviours, this can sometimes be a sign that something is not quite right โ either with their home environment or with their physical health. Itโs also important to mention any changes to their eating or toileting habits, as this can sometimes be an early indication of gastrointestinal issues or other serious diseases.
Your vet will be able to undertake blood and urine tests at this time, as well as ultrasound and radiographs. These diagnostic tests can all be conducted in-house at Moorabbin Vet Hospital, and help to detect any early stages of disease, as well as provide baseline data for future visits.
Itโs also a great time to discuss your petโs diet and ask any questions regarding what they should eat, how often, or if you have any concerns relating to a change in appetite or water consumption.
The Moorabbin Vet Hospital difference
The staff at Moorabbin Vet Hospital aim to make your visit to our vet clinic as smooth as possible and pride ourselves on our friendly, family-like environment.
We specifically tailor our annual health checks to suit the age and breed of your pet. During their check-up, we take the time to fully examine and discuss what your pet really needs, address any concerns or questions you may have, and talk through any recommendations to help you care for your pet.
Has it been over a year since your cat or dog has had a check-up? Book an appointment online or by calling 9555 4808.
