We spend a lot of time with our pets — after all, we share the same living space! But frequent contact can make it easy to miss subtle changes in health or behavior. This weekly health checklist can help you keep on top of your pet’s well being. A weekly health check is also a good way to get your pet used to being handled regularly!
- Is your pet acting “normal” — are they active and in general good spirits?
- Is your pet sleeping as much as he usually does?
- Does your pet move without stiffness, pain, or limping?
- Is your pet breathing normally (without straining or making unusual noises)?
- Does your pet have a normal appetite? Are they eating regularly?
- Does your pet have no problem with chewing or swallowing?
- Is your pet urinating as often as normal?
- Is your pet urinating in normal amounts?
- Is your pet moving his bowels as often as normal?
- Is your pet producing normal amounts of waste?
- Do bowel movements appear/smell like they usually do?
- Is your pet pottying without straining?
- Is your pet’s coat full and glossy?
- Is your pet’s skin not flaky or greasy?
- Is your pet free from fleas, ticks, and other external parasites?
- Are paws and claws undamaged?
- Are your pet’s eyes clear and free of debris?
- Are your pet’s ears clean and free of debris?
- Is your pet’s nose moist and free of discharge?
- Are your pet’s teeth clean and free of tartar?
- Are your pet’s gums pink and moist?
If you answer NO to any of the above questions, you may want to talk to your veterinarian. Some situations may simply need monitoring or at-home treatment; others may need an appointment or a visit to the emergency vet.
Going through this checklist every week is a great way to keep on top of your pet’s health. Some illnesses start off with very subtle changes — coat texture, sleep patterns, or potty habits may be your only clue that something is wrong.