Importance of a New Puppy/Kitten Exam

Have you recently got a new puppy or kitten? As a new pet owner, you must be excited. Part of being a pet owner is ensuring that your pet has everything it needs, such as food dishes, toys, treats, and a bed. It is equally important to have your new furry friend checked by a veterinarian.

Unlike adult dogs and cats, puppies and kittens have special needs and special exams. Starting at the age of eight weeks, puppies and kittens need to be examined or evaluated for inherited and infectious diseases. They also need to begin preventative health care routines, including vaccines.

Is a Wellness Examination a Must for Your Pet?

Pets are new additions to a family, and they should be treated as such. It is unfortunate that most pet owners only take their pets for an exam at the onset of a serious health condition. This should not be the case.

Pet owners are encouraged to take their puppies to wellness examinations regularly to help prevent diseases such as dental disease, ear infections, and obesity. Professional veterinarians conduct thorough physical examinations to assess puppies or kittens’ overall health condition.

Treatment recommendations are given if your pet is found to be unhealthy. Scheduling regular pet exams can help with:

• Flea prevention.

• Test feces for parasites.

• Deworming.

• Vaccine updates.

• Full physical examination.

• Discuss diet.

• Get answers to any questions or concerns you may have.

Puppies and Kittens Vaccinations

Core puppy and kitten vaccines start between six to eight weeks of age. These vaccinations continue until they are 16 weeks of age. When puppies and kittens are born, they receive antibodies from their mother’s milk, providing natural immunity. However, from eight weeks old, the levels of antibodies start to drop.

Having your kitten or puppy vaccinated at a young age helps his or her body create its protective antibodies. Similar to those they got from their mother. Veterinarians do further assessments to see if your pet may need optional vaccines depending on their lifestyle.

What to Expect at the First Exam

When you take your puppy or kitten to their first exam, your veterinarian will perform a comprehensive examination. Pet examinations begin with a detailed history of the pet’s lifestyle.

Next, the veterinarian will check their fur for fleas and ticks, check their nose, teeth, and ears, and listen to their heart. A weigh-in will also be done to check their weight. For parasite checks, pet owners are advised to bring stool samples if possible.

Puppies are often placed in a heartworm prevention program on their first visit. You are encouraged to ask as many questions as possible on topics such as biting and chewing behaviors. Also, ask questions on grooming and sleeping habits, potty training concerns, and diet and feeding schedules.

Neuter/Spay

Most veterinarians will ask if a pet owner would like to neuter or spay their pet. This procedure has several health benefits and helps pets from being able to reproduce. There is a specific age when pets can be neutered or spayed.

Take preventative measures by scheduling routine wellness exams for your pet. These exams will play an active role in the pets’ longevity. They will also live a comfortable and happy life.

To learn more about new puppy or kitten exams, call Dr. Mike’s Affordable Vet Care in Arlington, Texas at (817) 663-8160 with any questions or to book an appointment today.