How Often Should I Take My Pet to Get a Wellness Exam?

Many pet owners wonder how often their dog or cat really needs to see the veterinarian, especially when their pet seems healthy. Wellness exams play a critical role in preventive care, helping identify potential health issues early and ensuring your pet stays up to date on vaccinations and parasite prevention.

What Is a Pet Wellness Exam?

A wellness exam is a comprehensive health check designed to evaluate your pet’s overall condition - even when they seem perfectly healthy. During the visit, your veterinarian will typically:

• Perform a full physical exam

• Check weight, teeth, ears, eyes, and skin

• Listen to the heart and lungs

• Discuss diet, behavior, and lifestyle

• Recommend vaccinations, parasite prevention, or diagnostic tests if needed

These exams focus on prevention, early detection, and maintaining a high quality of life for your pet.

How Often Do Puppies and Kittens Need Wellness Exams?

Young pets grow quickly, and their bodies change fast. Puppies and kittens usually need multiple veterinary visits during their first year of life.

• Puppies and kittens: Every 3 - 4 weeks until about 16 weeks of age

• These visits help ensure proper growth, vaccinations, deworming, and early detection of congenital or developmental concerns

Early and consistent care sets the foundation for a lifetime of good health.

How Often Should Adult Pets Have a Wellness Exam?

Once your pet reaches adulthood, routine wellness exams are still essential - even if they appear healthy.

• Adult dogs and cats (1–7 years): At least once a year

Annual exams allow your veterinarian to monitor subtle changes, keep vaccinations up to date, and address issues like weight management, dental health, and parasite prevention - especially important for pets living in Pearland’s warm climate where fleas, ticks, and heartworms are common.

How Often Do Senior Pets Need to Be Seen?

As pets age, their risk for chronic conditions increases, and health changes can happen more quickly.

• Senior pets (generally 7+ years): Every 6 months

Biannual wellness exams help detect conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, diabetes, or heart issues early, when they’re often easier to manage.

Why Regular Wellness Exams Matter

Pets are very good at hiding pain or illness. By the time symptoms are noticeable, a condition may already be advanced. Routine wellness visits allow your veterinarian to:

• Catch health issues early

• Extend your pet’s lifespan

• Reduce long-term medical costs

• Keep your pet comfortable and active

For local Pearland pet owners, preventive care is especially valuable due to year-round parasite exposure and seasonal allergies common in the area.

Schedule Your Pet’s Wellness Exam Today

Wellness exams are a key part of responsible pet ownership. From energetic puppies and kittens to cherished senior companions, routine veterinary visits help ensure your pet stays healthy at every life stage. By sticking to a regular wellness schedule, you’re giving your pet the best chance at a long, happy life by your side.

If your pet is due for a wellness exam, contact Claws & Paws Veterinary Hospital and take a proactive step toward your pet’s lifelong health. Visit our office in Pearland, Texas, or call (281) 997-1426 today.