How Often Should I Take My Pet to the Vet?
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If you’re anything like me, your pets are family. Whether they’ve got paws, whiskers, or a tail that just won’t quit wagging, they hold a big spot in our hearts—and in our homes. But when it comes to keeping them happy and healthy, one question crops up time and again: how often should I be taking them to the vet?
Now, if you’re a first-time pet owner, or even if you’ve had animals for years, you’re not alone in wondering if you’re doing enough (or maybe too much!). I’ve been through this myself, with both my cat and my dog giving me that “do we really have to go?” look every time the carrier or lead comes out.
Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to follow—and not too clinical, promise.
Routine Vet Visits: The Basics
Generally speaking, once a year is a good rule of thumb for healthy adult pets. These annual check-ups are a bit like your own trips to the GP—an opportunity to catch any issues early and keep vaccinations up to date.
For Dogs:
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Puppies should see the vet every 3–4 weeks until they’re about 16 weeks old (for vaccinations, microchipping, and development checks).
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Adult dogs (1–7 years old) usually just need a yearly check-up.
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Senior dogs (7+ years) may need to go every 6 months, especially if they’ve got ongoing conditions like arthritis or dental problems.
For Cats:
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Kittens need frequent vet visits in their first few months—again, for vaccines and early health checks.
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Adult cats benefit from annual visits.
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Older cats (around age 10 and up) should ideally go twice a year, just to keep a closer eye on things like kidney function and weight changes.
Other Times You Should Book In
Aside from the usual routine visits, you’ll want to get your pet checked out if:
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They’re acting “off” (e.g., hiding more, limping, losing interest in food)
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There’s a change in toileting habits
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You spot lumps, bumps, or unusual behaviour
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You’re planning a trip abroad or need travel documents (hello, pet passports!)
Also, never be shy about calling your vet for advice. Sometimes a quick chat can save you a lot of worry—and they’re used to us pet owners panicking over every sneeze!
Cats vs Dogs: A Quick Comparison
In my experience, cats are generally less high-maintenance when it comes to vet visits. They hate the journey, sure, but they don’t tend to need quite as many appointments as dogs—unless they’re dealing with something specific. Dogs, on the other hand, especially the more energetic or accident-prone breeds, often need a bit more TLC and monitoring.
Making Vet Visits Less Stressful
If your pet dreads the vet (and let’s face it, most do), here are a few things that can help:
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Get them used to being handled—checking ears, opening their mouth, brushing teeth
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Make the carrier or car a positive place—use treats, toys, and praise
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Choose a vet practice that’s calm, friendly, and maybe even has separate cat and dog areas
In Summary
So, how often should you take your pet to the vet?
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Puppies and kittens: Every few weeks at first.
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Healthy adults: Once a year.
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Seniors or pets with ongoing issues: Every six months, or as recommended.
Trust your gut—if something doesn’t seem right, it’s always better to get it checked out. At the end of the day, regular vet visits are one of the best ways to keep your furry friend healthy and happy for years to come.