Humans are at the beck and call of their cats and want them to get the best care. Cats can invade beds, sleep wherever they want, and make the whole house into their playground. Regarding healthcare, cats must be brought annually to the vet.
They need to be checked to prevent sickness or get a diagnosis if there is an existing issue. Cats are so great at hiding sickness or pain, so these vet visits should not be missed.
Before the Vet Visit
Regarding annual checkups, it might be difficult for humans to bring the cat to the vet. Cats 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 tips to make vet trips easier.
Prepare What You Need
Ensure you have everything 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 appointment. Here are some of the things you may need:
- Carrier or crate
- Previous health or vaccination records (if going to a new vet)
- Toys and treats
- A list of concerns you might want to discuss with the vet
- Stool sample, if necessary
Be Calm
Before a trip, some cats can be fearful, stressed, or aggressive. Some cats hate being caged, so you might want 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 soothing encouragement throughout the trip.
What to Expect During the Checkup
There are three main things you can expect during a cat yearly checkup. Be confident and calm throughout the checkup. 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 vet will listen to your cat’s heart and lungs and feel for abnormalities, such as lumps and bumps, all over. If you have concerns, you may inform your vet of any observations you have.
The vet will also check for fleas, damaged claws, and oral health. If you think you missed an oral check, why not search the net for an “animal dental clinic near me?” If you have any concerns, you may inform your vet of any observations you have.
Laboratory Work
Your veterinarian may request a series of lab tests. If this is your adult cat’s first vet visit, these tests will be your cat’s normal health baseline. In the future, this will make it easier to spot changes in your cat’s health. Here are the following tests your cat may need:
- Complete blood count
- Blood chemistry panel
- Fecal test
- Urinalysis
Vaccination and Booster Shots
It is recommended that your cat get updated with its shots. Consult with your vet to learn which shots are necessary during adulthood. Keep your cat’s schedule to protect it from diseases it can pick up from different places and other cats.
The Takeaway
Be prepared, be calm, and know what to expect. Knowing what goes on during the checkup will help you be prepared to support your cuddly buddy emotionally. Your trip home will be equally peaceful and stress-free if all goes well.