Routine Checkups for Lifelong Health
Bringing your cat or dog in for their routine checkups can help our veterinarians prevent or catch potential health issues early, ensuring your pet's well-being.
These checkups can be used to identify health conditions that are developing and may still be in their earliest stages and easily treatable.
When combined with regular vaccinations, preventive care and proper nutrition, routine physical checkups help to give your pet their best chance at excellent lifelong health.
What happens during a physical examination?
At your pet's routine checkup, your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam to gain an overall view of their health.
Our veterinarians will also determine whether your cat or dog is due for any annual vaccinations or preventive care and administer these as needed.
Once your pet's exam has been completed, your veterinarian will discuss any concerns they may have about your pet's overall health and talk to you about your dog or cat's nutritional requirements, preventative testing, and treatments.
Routine checkups at our Thornhill veterinary hospital typically include an examination of each of the following elements of your pet's health:
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General Condition
Your pet's overall physical condition can provide valuable insight into how their body is functioning. How your pet stands and walks, their level of alertness, and whether they are a healthy weight for their size are all important indicators of the status of their health.
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Coat & Skin
One important aspect of your pet's checkup will be an examination of their skin and coat for possible signs of conditions. These signs can include excessive oiliness or dryness, lumps, bumps, dandruff, or abnormal hair loss.
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Face & Head
During your cat or dog's routine checkup, your veterinarian will examine their eyes, ears, and nose. Your veterinarian will look for issues like abnormalities or unusual discharge in these areas.
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Teeth & Mouth
Your dog or cat will have a dental examination to check for signs of potential oral health problems like plaque buildup or periodontal disease to help determine if your pet requires dental care.
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Internal Health
Your pet's heart rate and rhythm, pulse, and blood pressure are essential elements of their heart health and will be evaluated during this physical examination. Your veterinarian will then listen to the lungs for evidence of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be checked for pain or swelling, and we will also examine the abdomen to ensure the intestines, kidneys, bladder, spleen, liver, and stomach all feel normal, and that your pet is not exhibiting any signs of discomfort.
Checkups for Puppies & Kittens
The first weeks of life are crucial to the health of your puppy or kitten as their body is developing quickly during this time. Routine checkups will help monitor your new pet's organ function, teeth growth and weight gain, enabling quick identification of any health issues.
During these visits, we will perform a detailed physical examination of your pet and provide immunizations and deworming medication as needed. We will also test for parasites that could be infecting your cat or dog's internal organs.
In addition to the first checkup, we recommend bringing them in periodically for their required vaccines and monthly checkups.
Learn More About Puppies & Kittens
Checkups for Seniors
When cats and dogs enter their golden years, new health issues begin to appear. Routine veterinary care plays a significant role in your pet's health and happiness during this stage of life.
During your senior pet's wellness exam, your veterinarian will be particularly watchful for signs of age-related health conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis or decreased vision.
Older pets might need extra testing to help our team fully understand their health issues and create the right treatment plan.