Scheduling a vet appointment may seem like a stressful experience, and our pets usually don’t enjoy these doctor’s visits very much either. However, many pet owners drive away from the vet wishing they’d asked more questions and gotten more information about their pet’s health. Here are a few important questions to ask a veterinarian about your pet before and during your initial visit. These simple questions can give your pet better, more reliable care.
What Preventive Care Does My Pet Need?
Prevention is one of the most important steps in taking care of your pet. You should ask your vet about prevention options like vaccination schedules, parasite care, and routine health screenings.
If you have a cat, you may need different healthcare options if it’s an indoor or outdoor cat. Make sure your vet understands your pet’s active lifestyle so they can create a balanced, in-depth care routine for them.
How Can I Maintain My Pet’s Dental Health?
Dental problems with cats and dogs can lead to a lot of other problems, from their digestive issues to their mental health. Be sure to ask your vet about potential dental options and if there’s anything special you need to do to take care of their teeth.
Some pets require professional cleanings, while others can benefit from specialized treats that aid in teeth cleaning. Your vet can also demonstrate proper tooth brushing methods and suggest alternatives if your pet resists traditional brushing.
What Can I Bring In?
A good question to ask your veterinary clinic when scheduling your appointment is if there’s anything special you need to bring in. The more information your vet has, the more in-depth they can be with treatment. For starters, bring documentation of your pet’s vaccination status.
You should also bring in a list of any medications your pet is currently on or any written documentation for treatments they may have had recently. If you’re bringing your pet in for a specific health concern, your vet may request a stool sample so they can test for parasites or digestive health issues. Photos or videos of concerning behaviors, skin conditions, or symptoms can provide valuable diagnostic information.
What Should I Feed My Pet, and How Much?
As your pet ages or as their health needs evolve, their nutritional needs may vary from what they’re used to eating. Asking about your pet’s diet gives your vet a chance to recommend specific foods, brands, portion sizes, and even feeding schedules.
They can also address concerns about treats, table scraps, and dietary supplements. Ask about weight management strategies if your pet needs to gain or lose weight, as obesity creates serious health risks for both cats and dogs.
When Should I Schedule the Next Appointment?
Another important question to ask the veterinarian about your pet is when they need to come in for their next appointment. Ask about recommended intervals for routine checkups, vaccination boosters, and any follow-up appointments for current health issues. Senior pets typically require more frequent monitoring than younger animals.
Asking the right questions shows you care about your pet’s well-being. With the right guidance and a little teamwork, you can work together to give your pet a long and healthy life.
