Humans are at the beck and call of their cats and want them to get the best care. Pet cats can invade beds, sleep anywhere they desire, and make the whole house into their play area. Concerning healthcare, cats need to be brought each year to the veterinarian.
They need to be examined to prevent sickness or get a diagnosis if there is an existing problem. Felines are very good at concealing illness or pain, so these veterinarian visits must not be overlooked.
Before the Vet Visit
Regarding yearly checkups, it might be challenging for humans to bring the cat to the vet. Felines can smell your fear and get all feisty before a vet trip. Before you get anxious and shy away from the idea, here are some suggestions to make veterinarian trips much easier.
Prepare What You Need
Ensure you have whatever you need ahead of time. This will help reduce your stress. You can call the vet to ask for any requirements just to be sure. Be prepared and get things ready hours before your scheduled consultation. Here are a few of the important things you may need for routine exams:
- Carrier or pet crate
- Previous health or vaccination records (if going to a new vet).
- Toys and treats.
- A list of concerns you might want to talk about with the vet.
- Stool sample, if required.
Be Calm
Before a trip, some cats can be fearful, stressed out, or aggressive. Some cats hate being caged, so you may wish to make the crate or carrier as comfortable as possible. Most importantly, avoid being anxious because your cat will know if you freak out. Be calm, and be ready with lots of treats and relaxing encouragement throughout the trip.
What to Anticipate During the Checkup
There are three main things you can anticipate during an annual. Be confident and calm throughout the examination. Assist the vet and the nurses when necessary so your cat will be secure.
Head-to-tail Examination
The veterinarian will examine your cat from head to toe. The veterinarian will listen to your cat’s heart and lungs and feel for irregularities, such as lumps and bumps, all over. If you have concerns, you can notify your veterinarian of any observations you have.
The veterinarian will also check for fleas, damaged claws, and oral health. If you think your cat missed a dental check, you may also ask to see a veterinary dentist. If you have any concerns, you may inform your vet of any observations you have.
Lab Work
Your vet may ask for a series of lab tests. If this is your adult cat’s first veterinarian visit, these tests will be your cat’s normal health baseline at this vet clinic. In the future, this will make it easier to spot changes in your pet cat’s health. Such tests may be a blood count, a blood chemistry panel, and a fecal test.
Vaccination and Booster Shots
It is recommended that your cat get updated with its shots. Speak with your veterinarian to learn which shots are necessary during adulthood. Keep your feline’s schedule to protect it from illnesses from different locations and other cats.
The Takeaway
Be prepared, be calm, and know what to anticipate. Knowing what goes on during the checkup will help you be prepared to support your cuddly buddy emotionally. Your journey home will be similarly peaceful and hassle-free if all goes well.
