Things To Ask Your Vets

Choosing a veterinarian is a crucial decision for any pet owner. As a responsible caretaker, you’ll want to be well-prepared with the right questions to ensure your furry companion’s health and happiness. In this article, we focus on the most important questions to ask your vet, helping you navigate the complexities of preventive care, nutrition plans, vaccinations, and potential health risks. By knowing exactly what to discuss during checkups, you can better advocate for your pet’s well-being, catch potential problems early, and build a lasting partnership with your veterinary team. Evidence suggests that owners who ask thorough, targeted questions gain a deeper understanding of their pet’s health status, enhancing treatment outcomes and overall quality of life. Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or an experienced owner, these inquiries will sharpen your communication, empower informed decisions, and help your companion thrive. Let’s explore the key topics and make each visit count.

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 questions to ask your vet during your next visit:

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. Always prepare questions to ask your vet about how your pet’s history could impact their current and future health.

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.

Questions to Ask Your Vet About Pet Care in 2025

What kind of training is necessary?

Proper training focuses on adjusting daily routines to each pet’s physical traits and energy levels. For dogs, regular structured walks and playtime help maintain healthy fitness, while breed-specific considerations prevent harm. Brachycephalic breeds require gentle, short sessions to avoid breathing difficulties, and larger dogs benefit from balanced exercises that protect their joints. Setting boundaries and commands fosters better behavior, supports mental engagement, and encourages positive interactions with people or other animals. Cats often self-regulate activity, though puzzle toys or short sessions of interactive play can promote physical and mental stimulation.

How can I better care for my pet?

Offer a balanced diet tailored to your pet’s age, health, and lifestyle, and introduce any new foods gradually. Provide daily exercise or play sessions that match breed-specific needs, and monitor for changes in weight or behavior. Maintain up-to-date vaccinations and preventive measures to reduce the threat of parasites. Regular dental care, including professional cleanings and safe at-home routines, helps prevent painful infections. Brush and bathe your pet appropriately based on coat type, and watch for any breed-related health risks. Schedule routine checkups to catch issues early and ensure a longer, happier life.

Is their behavior normal?

Pets often exhibit a wide range of behaviors, many of which fall within normal boundaries. Some habits arise from breed tendencies, like chasing or digging, while others stem from environment, health status, or past experiences. For instance, brachycephalic breeds may pant or snore frequently due to airway structure, and certain cats may display unique grooming rituals or playful quirks. Changes in behavior, such as unexplained weight fluctuations or increased aggression, can sometimes signal underlying issues. Consistent monitoring, balanced nutrition, and routine veterinary checkups help confirm whether a pet’s behavior remains healthy.

Does my pet need a blood test or urine test?

Blood and urine tests can reveal a pet’s overall health by evaluating organ function, detecting infections, and identifying nutritional or metabolic imbalances. Veterinarians often recommend these tests when changes in appetite, behavior, or weight occur, or as part of routine annual exams. Early detection of underlying issues enhances treatment success and may lower long-term costs. Pets experiencing sudden shifts in thirst, urination, or energy levels can benefit from diagnostic screening. A veterinarian can determine the most appropriate testing based on factors like age, breed, and pre-existing conditions. Because results often reveal issues long before clinical signs develop, scheduling these tests can greatly boost a pet’s quality of life.

Does my pet need a rectal exam?

A rectal exam can be beneficial for many pets, especially those experiencing symptoms like constipation or scooting. This procedure helps detect impacted anal glands, abnormal growths, or signs of infection that may otherwise go unnoticed. Certain breeds may be more prone to anal gland issues, making periodic checks advisable. A veterinary professional may perform a brief, low-discomfort evaluation during a routine visit if indicated by the pet’s history or physical exam. Early detection of potential problems can enhance a pet’s comfort and overall wellbeing. Consult a local veterinary team to learn more about recommended screening protocols.

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.