At Bothell Pet Hospital, we take the proactive approach to veterinary care. Preventive care is a pet’s first line of defense. Wellness exams help by detecting, diagnosing, and treating disease in its early stages, often before any noticeable symptoms begin. The earlier preventive care starts, the more effective it is, keeping your pet from unnecessary pain and suffering and helping to ensure they live a long, healthy life.
During your pet’s wellness visit, the doctor will obtain a thorough history, discussing diet, activity levels, and behavior. A complete physical examination is then done to assess such parameters as body weight, dental health, and skin condition. We will listen to the heart and lungs, and palpate the abdomen for any irregularities. Joints are also evaluated for signs of swelling and arthritis.
Depending on the exam findings, we might recommend diagnostic testing. For example, if the doctor notices that your cat has lost weight, we might advise blood work and urine testing to evaluate the function of the kidneys, thyroid gland, and other organs. Or, we could detect a heart murmur and suggest a consultation with a cardiologist.
We recommend annual screening for internal parasites, such as worms and giardia, and will discuss the potential need for flea and tick control. We will also go over the nutritional needs of your pet and help with a weight loss program if necessary—all with the goal of helping you and your pet down a path of good health.
