So your cat is due for her annual (or semi-annual!) checkup?  This page details what you can expect to happen at your cat's wellness visit at Riverside Cat Hospital.

First of all, Congratulations on commiting yourself to providing proactive healthcare for your feline companion!  Bringing your cat for regular wellness visits is one of the easiest ways to help ensure that she will stay healthy and happy for years to come.  Not only will the doctor evaluate your pet for any necessary vaccines, but she may be able to detect health concerns before they become major problems!  This is also your opportunity to discuss any behavior concerns, flea control problems, or other questions you may have regarding your cat.

What will happen during my cat's visit?



First, one of the veterinary assistants will ask if you have any questions or concerns for the doctor to address.  They will also ask you basic questions about your cat, such as what type of food she eats, does she go outdoors, are there other pets in the house, etc.  If you give your cat any nutritional supplements or vitamins, it is helpful to bring these items with you.

Next, the assistant will check your cat's weight, and may check her heart rate and temperature.  They may also comb your cat to check for fleas or dander.  The assistant will ask if you need any flea or parasite preventative for your cat.  Please feel free to ask questions, we are here to help!

The next part of your visit is the doctor examination.  The doctor will review with you the basic information that you discussed with the assistant, including any questions that you may have.  She will review your cat's weight, and check to see if she has gained or lost any weight since her last visit.  If needed, she will discuss proper diet and feeding.  She will review your cat's history and lifestyle to evaluate what vaccines, if any, are appropriate for your cat to receive.

The physical examination may look simple, but the veterinarian is evaluating many different body systems during the exam:

     -First, the overall body condition (weight) is assessed.  
     -The skin and haircoat are evaluated for dryness, flaking, sores, wounds, and parasites. 
     -The ears are checked for debris or discharge.  The doctor may use an otoscope to look inside the ear if any abnormalities  are noted.
     -The eyes are evaluated for reaction to light, cataracts, discharge and other abnormalities.  The doctor may use an ophthalmoscope to look in the back of the eye if any abnormalities are noted.
     -The nose is checked for crusting or discharge.
     -The teeth and mouth are checked for tartar and gingivitis, growths, missing teeth, and infection.
     -The thyroid glands are palpated for enlargement.
     -The heart and lungs are ausculted with a stethoscope for abnormal sounds (murmurs, arrhythmias, wheezes, or crackles)
     -The abdomen and internal organs are palpated for irregular size or shape, or abnormal growths (kidneys, intestines, urinary bladder, spleen, liver)
     -The cat's normal gait (walking) is observed, if possible.  If any lameness is noted, or reported by the owner, a more thorough orthopedic exam is performed.

After the examination, the doctor will discuss the normal and abnormal findings with you.  Please ask if you have any questions!  We want you to be an active partner in your cat's health care!  If appropriate, the doctor may recommend vaccinations for your cat.  For middle-aged to older cats (7 years or older), the doctor may recommend senior bloodwork to screen for common diseases, such as kidney disease, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism.  Remember, these diseases are much easier to treat, or even cure, if they are detected early!

At the end of the visit, the doctor will give you a copy of your cat's health check report card, detailing the physical examination findings and any recommendations.  Do not hesitate to ask for an estimate for any recommended tests or procedures!.

Our goal is to help your feline companion live a long happy life.  By bringing her for regular checkups, you are taking the most important step towards helping us meet that goal.  Together, we can be strong advocates for your cat's continued good health!