Adult dog and cat wellness visits to the veterinarian are regular check-ups and health assessments designed to monitor and maintain the health and well-being of your pet throughout their adult life. These visits are important because they help ensure your pet’s continued health, prevent potential problems, and provide opportunities for early detection and intervention if health issues arise.
During wellness visits, the veterinarian conducts a thorough physical examination of your dog or cat. This examination includes checking vital signs, assessing body condition, inspecting the skin and coat, examining the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth, and palpating the abdomen and internal organs. Your vet also evaluates the musculoskeletal system and mobility.
Depending on your pet’s vaccination history, booster vaccinations may be administered during wellness visits to maintain immunity against common diseases. Some vaccines may be required annually, while others may be administered every few years. In Ontario, the rabies vaccine is legally required for all cats, dogs, and ferrets.
Routine wellness visits include discussions about parasite control, including the prevention of internal parasites (worms) and external parasites (fleas, ticks). We may recommend fecal examinations and prescribe preventive medications or treatments as needed.
Dental health is vital for adult pets. We will assess your pet’s oral health during wellness visits and may recommend dental cleanings or home care measures to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining your pet’s overall health. Your veterinarian can offer guidance on selecting an appropriate diet, portion control, and weight management strategies to prevent obesity and associated health issues.
Wellness visits provide an opportunity to discuss any behavioural concerns or changes in your pet’s behaviour. We can offer advice and solutions for addressing common behavioural issues and recommend training or behaviour
modification if needed.
As pets age, they may be at risk for developing chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or kidney disease. Regular wellness exams help monitor your pet’s health and may lead to early detection of these conditions, allowing for timely intervention and management.
Depending on your pet’s age and health status, the veterinarian may recommend routine bloodwork and diagnostic tests, such as complete blood counts (CBC), chemistry panels, and thyroid tests, to assess internal organ function and screen for underlying health issues.
Please let us know if you’ve noticed any physical or behavioural changes in your pet, as well as any other concerns you might have.
Call us today to schedule your pet’s exam. If you have any questions about our adult wellness program, please let us know.