Littleton West Animal Hospital is your Cat Veterinarian for Littleton and the Denver Metro Area
All cats should have a veterinary examination at least annually. For many cats, more frequent visits may be appropriate. Decisions regarding specific frequency of visits should be made based on individual needs of the cat.
Elements of a Complete Exam
- Risk factor analysis: age, gender, breed, lifestyle
- Physical condition: weight gain or loss, obesity; changes in body condition or conformation
- Evaluation of skin, coat, and nail bed character; detection and assessment of lumps and bumps
- Presence of lymph node enlargement
- Hydration status
- Abdominal palpation, especially the size and shape of kidneys and liver
- Vital signs: temperature, pulse, respirations, and pain assessment
- Cardiopulmonary evaluation: auscultation of heart and lung sounds; heart rate and rhythm; pulse rate and quality
- Evaluation of the central nervous system: mentation; cranial and peripheral nerve reflexes, especially conscious proprioception; vision and hearing
- Orthopedic examination: mobility, gait, range of motion, weakness, pain, crepitation, muscle mass
- Palpation for thyroid nodule
Health and Wellness Guidelines for Cats
We follow the guidelines for Cats from the American Animal Hospital Association and create a wellness plan to best suit the individual needs of each patient
- Retrovirus testing based on assessment and risk
- Early disease screening tests (CBC, blood chemistry, UA, fecal, thyroid, x-rays) customized plan based on assessment.
- Year around parasite control and screening based on risk
- Recommendations as needed for diet, dentistry, treatment, behavioral issues.
- Core vaccinations (rabies, herpesvirus, calicivirus, panleukopenia)
- Customized non-core vaccines based on risk (leukemia)
- Establish a plan for follow-up as well as future care recommendations
- Educational materials and thorough communication
