Your pet will need routine veterinary visits to help keep them strong and healthy. During these appointments, you will have a chance to discuss any concerns that you may have. Here, our Clinton Township veterinary team helps you to prepare for your pet's routine exam by sharing some questions that you can ask your vet.
Questions For Vets
Veterinary appointments always go easier for you and your pet when you are fully prepared, this also includes preparing questions to ask a vet. Having your veterinary questions prepared provides you with the opportunity to get all the information you need to care for your cat or dog to keep them happy and healthy.
Below the vets at our Clinton Township animal hospital explain some questions to ask vets and discuss why they are important:
What are some questions to ask a veterinarian?
When your pet has a routine visit scheduled, you may wonder if you should prepare some questions to ask your vet and what these questions should be.
Here are some questions that you might find useful to ask:
Is my furry friend due for annual vaccinations?
Vaccines are crucial for the ongoing, life-long care of your beloved companion. They have to be kept up to date to help protect them from a wide range of serious and often life-threatening illnesses and diseases. The vets at our Clinton Township vet clinic always do their best to inform you when your pet is due for their booster shots however, it can sometimes be overlooked so it's always best to ask.
Should I schedule my dog or cat for dental care?
Routine dental care is a critical component of cats' and dogs' oral and overall health, but most pets don't get the oral hygiene care they need to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
At our Clinton Township veterinary hospital, we provide complete dental care for your pet including dental exams, teeth cleanings, polishing, and surgeries.
We also make a point of providing dental health education to pet owners about home dental care for their pets.
Are there any reasons to be concerned about my pet's recent behavior?
Sometimes pets do odd things that are concerning to their owners such as biting, wheezing, or itching. Always take note of these behaviors and ask your vet about them because they will be able to tell you if there is an underlying condition. You should also try to provide as much information as you can for when and where your pet was bitten or picked up by the pest. This will help your vet with their diagnosis.
Is my cat or dog at a healthy weight and size for their breed?
Sometimes it can be hard to tell if your pet is over or underweight. Pets of every breed and age have their specific weight guidelines they have to maintain to live healthy lives. Even a few extra pounds over or underweight can put your pet at risk for various health conditions (some are life-threatening), making this a very important question. If your cat or dog isn't at a healthy weight your veterinarian will help you establish a diet and exercise plan to help your pet get back to a healthy weight.
Do you have any recommendations for my pet's diet?
All pets have specific nutritional needs including a balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. When choosing a food for your cat or dog, you will need to look into the components of the food to ensure that it will meet the individual needs of your pet.
You can ask your vet for guidance on what your pet needs in food and how to meet their nutritional needs to keep them healthy. Because your pet's needs will be changing constantly, it is ideal to discuss their diet at least once yearly.
Are my pet's physical exercise needs being met?
Exercise is crucial for your pet to stay strong and healthy, both physically and mentally. The type and amount of exercise that your pet needs will vary depending on the type of pet you have, their age, and breed. Your vet will be able to help you determine how my energy your pet needs to burn each day and can also offer some recommendations for types of exercises that your pet will enjoy.
Will my cat or dog need any additional diagnostics during their visit?
Diagnostic testing is crucial for helping to monitor the overall health of your pet and to pinpoint any potential concerns. Because pets are unable to use words to express what they feel, these tests become vital. Your vet can use diagnostic tests to determine the issue at hand and begin treating it quickly.
What parasite prevention can you recommend for my pet?
Fleas and ticks are a valid concern for many pet owners. These pests can easily come into contact with your pet every time you bring them outside and can cause a variety of serious diseases. With so many different products available it can be hard to know which one would be best for you and your pet. Luckily, your veterinarian will be able to recommend or prescribe a prevention product that will work best for your furry companion.
Do you have a moment to explain my bill to me?
Kindly ask your vet this question when they hand you the bill. Your veterinarian will be able to break down the costs and explain what each fee represents, to give you a better understanding of the services provided. It can also give you an idea of what to expect on your next visit.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.