A veterinary routine is essential when bringing home a new furry friend, but how often should you take your pets to the vet? The answer varies depending on how old and what your pet is. Younger kittens and puppies need monthly visits while adult pets only need to see the vet once a year. Finding the right routine for your pet is very important in keeping your pet happy and healthy.
Puppies and Kittens (0-4 months)
Young pets like children have a weaker immune system than adults. Your new puppy or kitten may have some immunity from its mother at birth but in time, that immunity will wear off. This is why your new puppy or kitten will need to see the vet every 3-4 weeks for vaccinations up until they reach 4 months. Along with giving vaccinations, your vet will also check to make sure your pet is growing well and that there are no signs of any illnesses. Once your pet reaches 6 months your vet will check again if you decide to spay or neuter your pet. With all the monthly shots it’s no surprise that most pets develop an aversion to the vet’s office so be sure to stop in here and there just visit to develop healthy habits or look into other options such as having an in-home vet visit where they are more comfortable.
Adult Pets (1-6 years)
At this point, it is recommended that your pet get at least one check-up annually. During these visits, the vet will check your pet from head to tail for any health concerns or problems and they may give boosters as needed depending on where you live. Your vet may also run some blood work or stool work to check for any parasites or illnesses.
Senior Pets (7+ years)
Your pets need, more attention in their older years since senior pets run into more health problems. During this time vets recommend at least two visits annually for dogs and three, annually for cats. During these visits, vets will give the head to tail physical examination and they might run blood or urine samples to check for any signs of other problems. Be sure to tell your vet about any changes you see in your pet, your senior dog sleeping more than usual may be a sign of a bigger problem.
Emergency Visits
Even with the right preventative care, there are still emergencies that could happen, knowing when to take your pet to the emergency room will help you make the right decision in a critical moment. Here are some emergencies that need immediate medical attention:
When your pet consumes toxic substances such as antifreeze or cleaning chemicals
- If your pet got hit by a car or a falling blunt object
- If you suspect your pet has broken bones
- If your pet suddenly collapses or cannot stand
- If your pet is not waking up or responding or unconscious
- If your pet has been vomiting or having diarrhea for the past 24 hrs or vomiting blood
- If your pet had a seizure
- If your pet has a swollen or hard abdomen
- If your pet is showing signs of extreme pain (whining, or signs of aggression when being held or petted)
To bring home a new furry family member is a commitment for life. Understanding how to take care of your pet’s health is necessary to prolong their time with you. Our pets can bring so much into our lives check-up only fair that in return we learn how to provide the right care for them.