It takes some energy to raise a pet the right way, and a good vet completes the whole process.  During the first visit to your vet, make sure to ask your pet expert questions about the overall health of your pet, and what to expect over the coming months and years. Whether it’s your first puppy or your second, it is important to ask your vet questions for your peace of your mind.

Pet parents today consider their pets as members of their family. And just like their kids, they need regular medical checkups. However, how do they get the most from their vet visits? The only secret is to ask their vets questions about all their concerns.

In case your pet has any new or unusual behaviour, make sure to mention it to your vet. If they are perfectly healthy, you can still ask your vet questions to cover the general basics.

Preparation

Before you ask your pet expert questions about the well-being of your pet, you need to schedule an appointment with them. It is advisable to call ahead.

You can streamline your appointment by telling the receptionist about your concerns before you check-in. That way, your vet will have a heads up before your visit. It is also important to find out if your vet may need a sample of your pet’s poop or pee before your visit. Always make sure your pet is on a leash or a carrier during your pet visits to ensure their safety.

Top Questions to Ask Your Vet

It is every pet parent’s wish to keep their pets healthy, safe and happy. In case you are worried about the health and well-being of your pet, you are not alone. Many pet parents are in this situation, especially first-timers.

We are here to clear all the clutter and provide you with all the questions and answers that you frequently ask about your pet’s health care needs.

1.How often should I  take my pet to the vet?

Never forget to ask your pet expert questions about the number of times you are required to visit them for check-ups. The answer to this question varies on the age and the general health of your pet. Here is some useful information to remember when answering this question.

• Puppies and kittens require their first vaccinations between the ages of 6 to 8 weeks. They need to continue visiting the vet for four months until their vaccinations are complete. Thereafter, it’s a good idea to visit the vet at least once a year for routine check-ups.
• Adult dogs and cats aged 7 years and above would benefit from a check-up at the vet at least once a year. If your pet is 10 years old and above, they may need more frequent vet checks because they are at a higher risk of disease and injury.
• Always make sure to contact your vet in case your pets show unusual symptoms despite their age.

2. Does my Pet Need Any Vaccinations?

All puppies and cats should start receiving vaccinations at the age of 6 weeks, and it is important to ask your vet questions and clarifications on the number of vaccinations and their importance. Puppy vaccinations help protect them against canine distemper, canine parvovirus and kennel cough.

Kitten vaccinations help protect them against feline distemper, calcivirus and herpes virus. Also, it is important to consider vaccinating your pet with non-core vaccinations, such as feline immunodeficiency virus, which are recommended by vets depending on the area your kitten lives, whether they live indoors or outdoors, and other lifestyle factors. Most vets recommend vaccination boosters annually or once every three years depending on the vaccine.

Be sure to ask your pet specialist questions about the vaccinations your pet needs and all the clarification you may need.

3. Should I Neuter or Spay my Pet?

Desexing (neutering or spaying) your pet has health and behavioural benefits. It also helps control the population of your pets by preventing unwanted puppies and kittens and helps decrease undesirable behaviours like aggression and marking their territory while indoors. Most vets recommend desexing your pet at around 5 to 6 months You need to consult your vet when to desex your pet, as they will consider a range of factors, such as your pet’s size, breed, vaccination status and overall health before recommending the timing of surgery.

4. Should I protect my Pet from Ticks and Fleas?

When you ask your pet specialist about protecting your pet against ticks and fleas, they will definitely agree with your decision. Ticks and fleas feed on your pet’s blood which can lead to anemia and paralysis.

5. Should I Give My Pet Heartworm Prevention Medication?

Heartworm disease is a serious and fatal disease that can lead to severe health problems or even death if left untreated. The heartworm is transmitted via a mosquito bite. Heartworm disease in Australia is rare and its prevalence is low. It is considered endemic In Australia. Heartworms are more common in dogs but cats can get it too.

Fortunately, there are monthly preventatives treatments that come in spot-on or tablet form and a yearly injection. Prevention is always better than cure!

6. Should I Worry About The Health Of my Pet’s Teeth?

Definitely! You should ask your pet specialist questions about your pet’s dental health. Pet dental disease is common in pets. Most of the diseases vets treat are dental problems that include gum diseases and periodontal disease that are seen in pets from the age of three years.

To help prevent dental diseases, make sure to regularly brush your pet’s teeth. Ask your pet expert questions about how you can improve your pet’s dental health.

7. Does my Pet Need Exercise and How much of it Should They Get?

Yes, exercising your pet is important as it helps them release excess energy and also maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a common health problem in dogs and cats and can lead to serious health conditions like kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes and arthritis. All pets need exercise. The amount of exercise depends on the pet’s size and type. Ask your vet questions on the best exercises and routine that is suitable for your pet.

8. What Should I feed my Pets?

What you give your pet matters as far as their health is concerned. You need to appropriately feed your pets according to their size, age and activity level, and any health conditions they may have, such as diabetes.

The food you feed your pet should  be ‘complete and balanced’, meaning a diet that that contains just the right amount of protein fat, carbohydrate and essential vitamins and minerals to help ensure that they remain healthy

Always ask your pet expert questions on the best diet that can improve the overall health and behaviour of your pet.

We hope this article has made you feel more informed about your pet’s health care issues. In case you have more questions, make sure to download our PetsForever App on Playstore and Appstore where our team of vets, animal trainers, veterinary behaviourists, alternative healing providers and animal communicators will help you answer your questions and concerns. However, always consult with a vet if your pet is in pain or in distress.

To ask our pet expert your question and connect with other likeminded pet lovers, please download our free PetsForever app now.

If you wish to become our expert or ethical partner, please send an email to admin@petsforever.io

Disclaimer:

The information we offer is educational in nature and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis or treatment. Our recommendation is to always do your research.

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