Wellness Exams: The Key to Keeping Your Cat Healthy
Cats are masters of snuggling and swirling around your feet. They are also masters of hiding pain. It’s instinctive. In the wild, an injured or sick cat is an easy target for a predator. That is why annual wellness exams are so important. They give your veterinarian a chance to discover any underlying issues. That way, we can treat any problems early. Routine wellness exams also allow vets to establish baseline health information to help track trends that may emerge as your cat moves through life.
At West Hills Animal Hospital & Emergency Center, we believe in preventive health care. Wellness visits are one of the most important things you can do to support your cat’s long-term health. When your pet sees the same trusted vet on a regular basis, it’s easier to:
- Catch issues early — before they become serious or harder to treat
- Stay protected — with up-to-date vaccines; flea, tick and parasite prevention and personalized care plans that change as your cat moves through life
- Track changes over time — by building a baseline of information and monitoring what’s normal for your cat
At each wellness visit, your veterinarian will take a thorough, personalized approach to keeping your cat healthy. Your cat’s exam will include:
- A comprehensive nose-to-tail physical exam
- Dental evaluation to assess oral health
- Guidance on year-round heartworm, flea and tick prevention
- Parasite screening through blood and stool testing
- A review of their medical history and lifestyle
- Safe, effective treatment recommendations if parasites are detected
- Vaccine recommendations tailored to your cat’s age, health and environment
- Vital sign check and weight monitoring
Make Vet Visits Less Stressful for Your Cat—and You
To keep your cat safe, please transport your cat to our clinic in a carrier. We know, however, that might not be their favorite thing to do. A little preparation at home before your appointment day can help a lot to ease anxiety when the time comes to bring them in. Help your cat become familiar with their carrier and view it as a safe place by:
- Placing it out, open, in a room where your cat likes to spend time.
- Adding familiar, comfy bedding inside.
- Placing their favorite treats, toys, or catnip in the carrier to entice them to explore inside.
- Giving them time. It may take days, or even weeks, for your cat to become comfortable inside the carrier.
Some cats feel calmer with a blanket or towel covering their carrier when they are inside, blocking out unfamiliar sights and sounds. Others feel better when they can see what is happening. Try carrying your cat in the carrier around the house both ways. We are certain your cat will let you know which method they prefer. Then, cover—or don’t cover—accordingly when you transport them on the day of their appointment.
Please call us today to schedule your cat’s wellness exam: (631) 351-6116