|
Early detection of health problems can save you and your pet from the pain and heartache that illness can cause. As you get to know your pet, you should become familiar with the normal body characteristics, daily habits and personality of your pet. This knowledge will help you to be aware of any changes that occur. Listed below are tings that you can monitor in your pet, between your pet’s regular veterinary examinations. If you find anything abnormal, call your veterinarian as soon as possible to schedule a through exam.
Your pets should be clear and bright. Redness, swelling or discharges are signs of a problem. Eyelids should be smooth. The inside of your pet’s ears should be a light pink. A small amount of ear wax is normal, but a yellow or brown waxy discharge is not. Redness, swelling or foul odors are signs of infection. Head shaking and ear scratching can be your pet’s way of telling you there is something wrong.
Nasal secretions that are clear or watery are normal. Thick, colored or bloody discharge is not.
Examine your pet’s mouth. Teeth should be free of yellow-brown tarter buildup. Gums should be light pink. Bad breath, excessive drooling, inflamed or bleeding gums and loose or missing teeth are an indication of infection. White or blue gums are indications of more serious internal problems.
Your pets breathing should be even and unlabored. Prolonged sneezing, coughing or shortness of breath is not normal. Regarding your pets digestive system, the anal area should be clean and free of discharge. Excessive flatulence may be a sign of underlying disease or incorrect nutrition. Prolonged vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, excessive thirst, frequent urination or blood in the urine or stool are signs of a possible health problem. Check your pet’s entire body, including the head and legs for lumps and bumps under the skin. Watch the feet and nails for signs of injury. Your pet’s coat should be glossy, but not too oily. A dry dull coat, excessive hair loss or odor from the skin can be a sign of incorrect diet or illness. Skin should be free of parasites, redness, sores, and scabs. Excessive scratching, biting or licking of skin or haircoat can signal a problem. As you are checking the skin and coat, pay close attention for signs of fleas or ticks.
When considering your pet’s weight, your pet should not have excessive body fat. You should be able to feel your pet’s ribs, but they should not be protruding or highly visible. Watch for changes in appetite (decrease or increase) and sudden changes in weight (loss or gain).
Behavior changes can sometimes be subtle. Watch for changes in activity and energy level, stiffness or limping, loss of house-training and hiding in dark places. Any prolonged changes in normal habits or behavior patterns can indicate illness and should be discussed with your veterinarian.
|
