Questions to ask the vet: Taking pets to a vet for a wellness exam can be stressful and frustrating for some people. Often it’s not even the vet’s fault, we just don’t know what questions to ask.
Here are 10 questions we should ask the vet
A good veterinarian will probably provide you with as much information as possible about your pet, however, it is always useful to receive additional information on the best care for our furry ones.
1. Is my pet at a healthy weight?
More than half of dogs and cats in the US are overweight, according to a recent survey by the Association for Pet Obesity and Prevention. Worse still, many pet owners with overweight dogs or cats are in denial that there is a problem with their pets. Ask your veterinarian if your pet is within the appropriate weight range for his breed, size, and height. Then, if there is a problem, you can work together to solve the problem. This also applies if you suspect your pet is underweight, although this is less typical.
2. Could you be providing a more appropriate meal?
Good health begins with proper nutrition, and who better to ask what’s appropriate for your pet than your veterinarian. Once your pet is evaluated, they can recommend diets that are appropriate for your pet’s life stage, lifestyle, and any other underlying health factors or conditions that apply.
3. Is that [Insert strange behavior here] normal?
Don’t automatically assume that your pet is short of breath after an exercise session, or that it’s common for pets to itch every time they go outdoors. An annual pet wellness exam is a good time to ask your veterinarian about any peculiarities you’ve noticed in your animal over the past year. Keep a running list as these things happen so you can tell your doctor exactly what the problem was, when it first happened, and how often it has happened since.
4. Is my pet up to date on vaccinations?
It never hurts to make sure your furry friend is up to date on all of their shots and immunizations; it is something that can be easily overlooked.
5. Does my pet need a dental cleaning?
Dental disease is a common problem among pets. In fact, it is estimated that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats over the age of 3 suffer from some degree of periodontal disease. If left untreated, this can lead to other, more serious health complications, such as problems with the kidneys, liver, and even the heart. Ask your vet if Fido or Fluffy should have their teeth cleaned. “Instead of waiting for a problem to develop,” says Dr. Ashley Gallagher, a veterinarian at Friendship Hospital for Animals, “it’s best to do teeth cleaning when there’s only mild gingivitis and/or tartar. This will maintain good dental health. health and prevent disease before it becomes a problem…which in turn helps you save money and keep your pet healthy! «
6. Does my pet need a blood test?
Blood tests detect a variety of problems, including kidney and liver disease, diabetes, cancer, and a host of other problems that can be treated if caught early. Regular blood tests will also give your vet a baseline to compare over time.
7. What flea/tick medications do you recommend for my pet?
Fleas and ticks aren’t just a nuisance; They can also transmit deadly diseases to you and your pet. Fortunately, there are many options when it comes to killing and preventing fleas and ticks. Ask your veterinarian about the differences between popular medications on the market (for example, topical versus oral medications) and which one is best suited for you and your pet’s lifestyle. There are even some oral medications that protect against fleas and ticks for up to 12 weeks with a single dose.
8. What are these lumps and bumps?
It is not unusual for lumps and bumps to develop as pets age. However, unusual skin changes can also be a sign of cancer. Point out any new lumps, bumps, or unusual moles that have appeared since your last visit. The vet can then determine if a biopsy is warranted.
9. Does my pet need a rectal exam?
Every vet has a different way of doing things, but they may not give your pet a full rectal exam if you don’t ask. Rectal exams detect prostate and rectal cancer, which can be treated if found early.
10. Can you explain my bill to me?
If you ask nicely, your vet will be much more likely to explain to you why a short visit and routine procedures cost what they do. It may seem like a lot of money, but these line-item expenses will likely keep your pet healthy and happy for years to come.
