Your Puppy or Kitten's First Visit
By Jennie Braaksma, CVT

Now that you have a new puppy or kitten, it is a good idea to have him/her examined for overall general health. Ensuring that your pet is healthy will help generate a happy start in life and begin the bond of a long life together.

At your first visit, your pet will receive a comprehensive physical exam, including but not limited to, the following:

Eyes & Nose: eyes should be clean and bright, and the nose damp Oral Cavity: mouth should be pink and teeth white. Gums should not be inflamed.
Ears: ears should be clean and dry.
Skin: coat should be smooth and unmatted. It should also be free of fleas.
Urogenital: all organs should look normal. No signs of diarrhea should be present.
Heart & Lungs: heart will be listened to for good, steady heart rate (checked for murmurs), the chest & lungs will be listened to for good respiration.
Abdomen: will be palpated and felt for lumps or possibility of a hernia.

It’s possible your puppy or kitten was born with intestinal parasites passed on by their mother. Bring a fecal sample to your visit, so that any parasite they may have can be treated. The most common types of worms are roundworms and hookworms. Deworming involves administering the appropriate oral medication for the appropriate period of time. Other types of parasites can include whipworms, tapeworms, coccidia, and giardia, to name a few. Appropriate medication will be dispensed if these are detected.

Vaccinations will likely be done at this visit too (as discussed in our last newsletter).

Come with any questions you may have. We are happy to help and want your experience with the newest member of your family to be worry-free and happy.

 Return to Client Education

© Marsh View Veterinary Clinic, 2007
These articles are for your educational enjoyment. They may not be republished without the permission of Marsh View Veterinary Clinic. Please contact us at 920-326-3020 or 920-326-5738 if you have any questions.