Things To Ask Your Vets

Do you have an upcoming appointment with our animal clinic? While your furry buddy would probably prefer to stay at home and take another snooze, regular checkups are critical to your pet’s health and well-being. This is also an excellent moment to obtain personalized care recommendations that will help you keep your beloved pet happy and healthy for as long as possible. As your Cavan Monaghan, ON veterinarians, we are always delighted to answer inquiries!

Here are a few things you could ask about:

What Types of Food Should I Give My Pet?

While we are pleased to make recommendations on brands and ingredients, your pet will eventually require a personalized meal. You don’t have to spend a fortune on pet food, but you should ensure that your pet is getting a nutritious, nourishing diet that fulfills their individual needs and is appropriate for their age, health, and lifestyle.

We have a few tips on this. First and foremost? Get into the habit of reading labels. For dogs and cats, the label should list meat, fish, or poultry first. Avoid items with lengthy lists of unidentified substances. Always make adjustments gradually, over the course of several days. And finally, be mindful of your pet’s portion sizes!

Check with your Cavan Monaghan, ON veterinarian frequently, as your pet’s demands will alter over time.

How Much Exercise Does My Pet Need?

This one is primarily applicable to dogs. Cats’ workouts are largely self-regulated. (They also consider catching Zs to be a legitimate form of exercise, but that’s a separate discussion.)

Doggy fitness requirements vary greatly from pup to pup. Size is one consideration. A Chihuahua may receive enough exercise simply by dashing around on its small legs. A Golden Retriever may require one hour or more of intense activity per day.

Size is not the only factor at play here. Your pet’s breed and physiological characteristics are also important. Brachys, such as pugs, should never be taught to run, jump, or swim because their small airways lead them to lose their breath quickly. Jumping and standing can also be hazardous for larger dogs.

Of course, this is not to argue that cats and other animals do not require exercise. However, they usually get their activity in by playing and, in cats’ cases, following their humans around.

What Vaccinations Do My Pets Need?

Pets are prone to a variety of ailments and diseases. There is no way to protect your pet from every potential threat, but vaccines are available for many of the most prevalent ones.

We recommend that all dogs and cats receive the essential immunizations.

Core vaccinations for dogs include Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), canine adenovirus (CAV), Canine Parvovirus 2 (CPV-2), and Rabies. Cats’ core vaccinations are Feline parvovirus (FPV), Feline calicivirus (FCV), Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), and rabies.

Non-core immunizations may also be suggested by your veterinarian. Kennels, airlines, groomers, and daycares frequently require the Bordetella vaccine, thus it is commonly suggested. Your pet may also benefit from non-core immunizations such as the lepto vaccine, rattlesnake vaccines, and others.

How Are My Pet’s Teeth?

Dental health is equally vital for humans and pets. Fluffy and Fido cannot clean their own choppers, nor can they schedule cleanings or other dental care. However, abscesses, gum disease, cracked or broken teeth, infections, and misalignments can be excruciatingly painful and lead to serious infections.

In addition to having your veterinarian inspect your furry pal’s teeth, you may want to seek some home care advice.

Does My Pet Require Preventatives?

Fleas, ticks, and heartworms are microscopic parasites that can cause serious difficulties. Some infestations can potentially be deadly. A solid preventative care plan is crucial. Protecting your pet from parasites and infections is less expensive, easier, and more effective than treating them. It is also much more comfortable for your pet!

How Much Grooming Does My Pet Need?

Pet bathing and grooming requirements also differ greatly. A dog with short, smooth fur may only need a bath once or twice a month, whereas one with thick hair may require more frequent bathing. You don’t want to over- or under-bathe because both can cause irritation, itching, and skin concerns.

Your doctor can also advise you on grooming products and practices, as well as whether your pet requires any medical grooming operations, such as anal gland expression.

Is My Pet at a Healthy Weight?

Sometimes it’s easy to discern if a pet is overweight or underweight. If Fido or Fluffy are round, they’re likely overweight. On the opposite end of the scale, a pet with clearly visible ribs may need to put on weight. There’s also a lot of grey area here, where you’re not sure whether your pet is overweight, underweight, or just right.

A word of caution: rapid, unexplained weight loss or gain can indicate the presence of illness or disease. If your four-legged friend is suddenly growing or shrinking and you don’t know why, it’s worth mentioning to your Cavan Monaghan, ON vets.

What Health Concerns Might My Pet Face?

Pets may also be genetically predisposed to certain diseases. For example, white-coated puppies are more prone to visual and hearing loss. German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are among the breeds at risk of hip dysplasia, and pugs are prone to eye problems. Determine whether your pet is at a higher risk of developing any specific conditions.

Keep in mind that, while breed is an important element, it is not the only thing to consider. It is also important to consider your pet’s history. For example, pets who have received steroids may be more likely to acquire diabetes.

Why Does My Pet ____?

We left this one blank because there are so many conceivable variations. And, to be honest, we may not be able to explain why your cat chews wallpaper or why your dog loves mud puddles. That being said, we know a lot about our patients and might be able to shed some light on their adorable—and frequently hilarious—quirks.

Make An Appointment At Our Cavan Monaghan, ON Pet Hospital

Is it time for your pet’s exam, vaccines, or parasite control? Are you looking for a great veterinary clinic in Ontario? Please do not hesitate to contact us. As your neighborhood Cavan Monaghan, ON pet hospital, we are here to assist.