Feline Physical Exam
Your cat’s examination starts with a look at the eyes to make sure they are clear with no cataracts or vision changes. Then we will look in the ear canals to check for any wax, ear mites, and signs of an ear infection or other problems. We will examine your cat’s teeth taking note of any tartar, periodontal disease or cavity-type lesions known as resorptive lesions. We will listen to your cat’s heart and lungs to check for any heart murmurs, abnormal rhythms or changes to lung sounds. Your cat’s abdomen will be palpated to check for any pain, masses or enlarged organs. We will check your cat’s skin and coat for any fleas,
signs of skin infection or hair loss, or dry skin. We will also assess your cat’s weight and body condition and feel his or her lymph nodes. We will also request that you bring a fresh stool sample so we can check for intestinal parasites. One thing we will not do is take your cat’s temperature unless he or she is ill. Recent studies show that cat’s become more stressed at the veterinary office if their temperature is taken. For an otherwise healthy cat, this is undue stress, so we no longer perform a temperature check on healthy cats and kittens. Though the physical exam takes only a few minutes to perform, it is a very thorough and important part of any preventive care visit with your cat. Please make sure to bring your cat to see us at least once a year to make sure he or she stays as healthy as possible.
Kitten
Kittens are fun, curious little critters but require a lot more care and attention than many people realize. Your kitten will have several doctor examinations and a series of vaccines, much like human babies, during their first few months. Each time your kitten comes in for an appointment at PVH, your kitten will receive a full doctor examination to check him or her over from nose to tail. This is to ensure that your kitten is healthy and growing properly. Your kitten will have its eyes, ears, heart and lungs checked at each visit. And we won’t stop there – our staff will educate you and your family on how to best care for your kitten at home including nutritional consults, behavioral consults and environmental enrichment for your kitten to ensure that he or she is set up for success in adapting to your household.
Don’t forget to bring a stool sample to each of your kitten’s examinations! Most kittens are born with parasites and worms so it is pertinent to have stool samples checked regularly and de-worm your kitten as appropriate. Several parasites and worms are zoonotic, meaning that they can be passed from your kitten to you and your family members!
Common Topics of Cat Owners
Importance of spaying and neutering
