Are you about to take your cat or dog to the veterinarian for their first annual physical? Before you hop in the car, educate yourself about the kinds of inspections your pet should receive in his annual exam. Though any vet worth his salt will give a thorough review of everything in this list, be familiar with what your pet is entitled to, in case you have any concerns. Below are the examinations you should expect on your visit.
Inspections
- Eye exam
- Ear exam
- Dental & Oral exam
- Coat, skin, and paw exam
- Weight and nutrition examination and counsel
- Neurological evaluation
- Abdominal and intestinal examination
- Urogenital exam
- Lung and respiratory evaluation
- Parasite inspection
Discussion Points
During the course of the appointment, the veterinarian ought to review certain topics to help acquaint you with any improvements or changes that ought to be made to your pet’s lifestyle, or any care your pet is being given. Such discussion points may include:
- A review of the list of vaccinations your cat or dog has received, including any non-core vaccinations that might be useful for dogs or cats in your region. He should also inform you of whether or not your pet is due for any booster shots to support previously administered core vaccinations.
- The vet should discuss your pet’s diet, and the necessary nutrition needed to improve his health. If there are any changes that need to be made (such as a hypoallergenic, raw diet or starch-free diet, or the implementation of canned foods, or vitamins and supplements), the vet will advise you on what products and supplements to provide your pet.
- Any physical concerns, developing strains, or potential hazards and injuries you should be wary of also ought to be discussed, as well as any exercise advice that may be pertinent to your pet.
- If the vet notices any irregularities in your cat or dog’s physique, he will express those concerns, and may advise potential tests that should be given. If he has diagnosed a disorder or malady in the midst of his initial inspection, the vet will then provide suggestions of treatments and care that may be provided to help the animal heal or prevent infection.
General Costs
Depending on the outcome of your general veterinarian appointment, additional treatments and inspections might be recommended for your dog or cat’s well-being. These charges may include:
- Basic Veterinarian Appointment: $40-60 is the standard payment for an annual check-up.
- Booster Shots: The booster vaccinations prolong your pet’s immunity and improve their health. Most shots, administered 2-4 years yearly, can cost an average of $20-30.
- Blood Test for Parasites: Detecting worms is a vital aspect of preventative care. Heartworm tests and blood testing can cost between $45-50.
- Allergy testing: This can cost between $150-250 for skin testing, or $200-300 for blood testing.
- Dental Cleaning. Oral hygiene treatments are often advised when the pet experiences gum bleeding during the dental inspection. Those that do not regularly have groomers do dental cleaning can expect to pay between $75-400 for an in-depth oral hygiene procedure.
- Geriatric Screening. This kind of test is more applicable for senior dogs and cats who require in-depth urinalysis, x-rays or blood work done. This can cost from $80-110.