Preventive Care for Cats and Dogs
Routine wellness exams are incredibly important for maintaining your pet's good long-term health. An annual pet exam is necessary. In general, all dogs and cats should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
When connected with regular vaccinations, parasite prevention, and appropriate nutrition, these routine physical exams give your pet the best opportunity to have a healthy life.
If you're looking for a quick vet check-up near Kittrell come in and see us. Our vets can stop any health issues from developing, or catch conditions early enough that they're the most treatable.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical Check-up
Your Kittrell vet will give your dog or cat a thorough physical checkup in order to get the full picture of his or her overall health. Routine wellness exams at Kittrell Animal Hospital include the following elements:
General Condition
Your pet's general demeanor and physical condition can provide clues to 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.
Coat & Skin
During your pet's checkup, we will examine your dog or cat's skin and coat for signs of irritations or problems, including excessive oiliness or dryness, lumps, bumps, dandruff, or abnormal hair loss or shedding.
Face & Head
Your pet's eyes, ears, and nose will be examined for abnormalities or discharge. We will also check the mouth for symptoms of oral health problems such as plaque buildup or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
Heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are vitally important to your pet's heart health. We'll test these to ensure they're normal. The lungs will then be examined for evidence of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling, and we will also examine 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.
Review of Findings
At the end of your pet's routine wellness exam, your vet will take the 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.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
Puppies and kittens need high-quality medical care to start off their life the healthiest way possible.
We'll give your new furry friend a complete physical examination, appropriate vaccinations, and deworming medication. We will also check for intestinal parasites. You'll be provided with a puppy or kitten 'kit' filled with educational material and samples to help you care for the newest member of your family.
Please never hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about caring for your new pet, either at or following your visits.
Once your puppy or kitten's checkup is complete, you'll return periodically for his or her required booster shots.
Seniors
With recent advances in veterinary medical knowledge and care, as well as newer therapies and better nutrition, senior pets are living longer than ever.
While this is terrific news for pets and their owners, it means that special attention needs to be given to your pet's routine healthcare as they age. As your pet surpasses middle age, regular examinations become increasingly crucial to ensure their continuing health and longevity.
In addition to the routine wellness procedures we perform on all adult pets, we will give special attention to your senior pet's potential geriatric conditions, such as arthritis or decreased vision.
Additional laboratory tests may be recommended for aging pets to provide more detailed information about your senior pet's overall health and wellbeing.
Vaccinations & Prevention
Throughout your dog or cat's checkup at Kittrell Animal Hospital, your vet will check to see if your pet is due for any preventive care, or ready for their next round of vaccinations.