5 Questions You Should Always Ask The Veterinarian About Your Pet

If you are the owner of a new pet, you may be feeling unsure that you are providing the best care for your furry friend at home. All animals have different wants, needs, and demands, and providing these correctly often weighs on the conscience of a pet owner. If you are unsure, consider asking your veterinarian the following five questions.

#1 Is my pet a healthy weight for its age, breed, and size?

Many well cared for pets are actually overweight. What’s worse, is that many pet owners with an overweight animal will often fail to see that there is an issue with their pet’s weight.

Ask your veterinarian to check that your pet falls within an acceptable weight range for its size and breed. If there does turn out to be a weight issue, the vet will be able to work with you to ensure a healthy diet for your pet. This leads us to question number two.

#2 Is there a better or more appropriate food for my pet?

Providing the best nutrition for your pet is a crucial part of maintaining a healthy weight. Puppies and kittens will require special nutrition to aid their growth, whilst older animals may find a change to their diet affects their digestion.

The veterinarian is one of the best people to ask about your pet’s diet. A vet will be able to make recommendations based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and other contributing factors.

#3 Is my pet up-to-date with vaccinations?

When young animals such as kittens and puppies are born they are protected from infection by their mother’s milk, provided that she has been properly vaccinated. This protection only lasts a few weeks, so your pet will need regular vaccinations from an early age.

Some vaccinations for pets, like humans, require booster shots. The best way to stay on top of your pet’s vaccinations is to check with your veterinarian and follow their recommendations.

#4 Can you recommend a flea treatment for my pet?

Fleas can be a problem, even in the cleanest of homes or on the cleanest of pets. Much more than just an itchy nuisance, fleas can also transmit diseases. Luckily, there are plenty of options for flea and tick prevention, with a choice of oral or topical applications, there should be something suitable for your pet. Some of the more popular flea medications on the market can even protect your pet for up to 12 weeks with just one dose.

If you are unsure, always ask your vet about the suitability of the flea treatment you have chosen for your pet.

#5 Is my pet’s behaviour normal?

If you’ve noticed your pet acting strangely, for example, your dog loses their enthusiasm for a normally enjoyed activity such as walking, it’s a great idea to ask your veterinarian about any peculiarity your pet may be displaying. If possible, keep a list of these things as they happen, so that you can let your vet know when the issue first occurred and how often it has happened since.