Vet Questions

I haven't taken Emmett to the vet in about 3 or 4 years. I have an appointment booked for Thursday for a check up. What should I make sure the vet checks?

Well.. It says you joined back in '03. I could be guessing wrong, but did you get Emmett then? If so, that would make for at least a 7 year old cat, older if adopted as an adult. So you might need to a full senior panel for blood work (suggested for kitties around 8yrs+).

Otherwise just the usual stuff. Temp, weight, eyes, ears, and most importantly teeth.
Of course any special concerns you have if this isn't just a check up.

Thanks. He's only 7, I got him as a kitten.

I agree - get a full blood panel (at least you'll have it as a baseline for check-up's down the road). Ask the vet to check anal glands (my two tend to have full ones). And what strange_wings said.

I agree, the vet should do a full physical exam, using a scope to look at eyes and ears. He should palpate the abdomen to feel the kidneys and bladder, as well as an overall body check for lumps and bumps. He can also manually check the thyroid gland. It's very important to examine Emmett's teeth and gums. Make sure the vet looks at the roof of his mouth, and under his tongue for lesions or growths.

Weight and temp should be taken, and coat and skin checked for fleas, dandruff, etc.

The vet should also carefully listen to Emmett's heart.

I'm sure your vet will suggest bloodwork - definitely do this. You might also want to check the thyroid (can be done as part of the bloodwork) just to get a baseline reading.

Glad you're getting your baby a check-up. Hope he gets a clean bill of health!

Just another echo for all that has been suggested

Originally Posted by KTLynn

. Make sure the vet looks at the roof of his mouth, and under his tongue for lesions or growths.

Click to expand...

My vet doesn't do this with if one of my cats is too fussy for him to thoroughly look. I'm frequently poking around their mouths (brushing and checking teeth and gums), though.
I suggest all pet owners always check as much of these as possible on their pets at home, you'll catch something a lot quicker than an annual visit will.