Physical Examinations on Your Pet
The reason for this is to look for any abnormalities or signs of illness. Lumps, cuts, infection, irregular heart rate, and bad teeth are just a few of the things that may be found by a physical exam.
The exam may lead to other tests if a problem is found. It is meant as a preventative measure in healthy pets to keep small problems from becoming big ones. In sick animals, the physical exam helps the doctor narrow down possible causes for the illness. Most likely, some other form of diagnostic test will be necessary, an ear swab for an ear infection, bloodwork, or x-rays, depending on the problem. The physical exam, together with the information you provide and the diagnostic tests all work together to suggest the best treatment for your pet.
Many people think that we can 'just give the pet a shot' when they need a Rabies vaccine or other regular vaccination, but that's not true. Vaccinating a pet with an undiagnosed illness can make your pet worse and it's not practicing good medicine. Therefore, in most cases, you will have an exam charge even if we are 'just vaccinating' your pet.
Sometimes exams are done for behavior problems as well. Even though you may think the problem is behavior related, we still need to rule out physical illnesses like infection or pain when consulting on a behavior issue. For example, many times when a cat is urinating outside the litter box, it's not because they are angry at you, but because they have a bladder infection.
Regardless of the reason you are bringing your pet to see us, 99 times out of 100, the pet will receive a physical exam. Many illnesses can be seen during an exam, but please realize that even with an exam, the doctor can't detect what may be going on 'inside' your pet without other tests. For a complete wellness check, bloodwork, urinalysis and x-rays need to be done regularly, especially on older pets. See more information on our Senior Pet Health Checkups here.
Is your pet healthy? Check this list to find out.
Checklist
for a Healthy Pet
My pet:
Is acting normal - active and in good spirits
Does not tire easily with moderate exercise
Does not have seizures or fainting spells
Has a normal appetite and no weight changes
Does not vomit or regurgitate its food
Has normal bowel movements (firm, mucus-free)
Doesn't drag its bottom on the floor
Has a full, glossy coat with no missing hair or mats
Doesn't scratch, lick or chew itself anywhere
Has skin that isn't flaky or greasy
Is free from fleas, ticks or mites
Has a body that is free from lumps/bumps
Has ears that are clean and don't smell sour or bad
Doesn't shake its head or dig at its ears
Has eyes that are bright, clear and free of matter
Has normal hearing, reacts as usual to its environment
Walks without stiffness, pain or difficulty
Has healthy looking feet, short nails and dewclaws
Breathers normally, without straining or coughing
Has a normal thirst; drinks a normal amount of water
Urinates in the usual amounts, color and frequency
Has a moist nose, free from discharge
Has clean, white teeth without plaque or bad breath
Has gums with no redness, swelling or offensive odor
Has no bad habits (scratching or biting)
If you answered 'no' to any of these questions,
call us for an appointment today at (281) 444-8387.
