A wellness exam is an overall general health assessment and complete physical examination that may include diagnostic testing, blood tests, urinalysis, checking a stool sample, and parasite screening. In many cases, a wellness examination can help detect the early stages of disease. Wellness exams are recommended for most pets at least annually, but more often (at least every 6 months) for senior pets and pets with chronic health issues. A wellness exam can help ensure your pet's health and detect early stages of disease.
Dogs are considered senior after the age of 7 and cats after the age of 10 years. Senior pets should visit their veterinarian twice a year for wellness exams. These exams are the key to detecting any health problems that could endanger your pet. Senior pets are susceptible to some of the ailments that aging humans face, such as cancer, diabetes, kidney complications, liver and intestinal disorders, arthritis, dental disease and vision impairment.
You can be your pet’s best advocate when it comes to their health. Keep a watchful eye for anything unusual or out of character for your dog or cat.
Some warning signs to watch out for include:
Your veterinarian may ask you to fill out a preliminary checklist along with a complete medical history of your pet. The checklist will ask about any issues that your pet may have. Make sure to fill out the forms thoroughly and bring a list of questions that you may have about your pet's health.