When to Schedule Your Pet’s Next Wellness Exam

What Is a Wellness Exam?

A wellness exam is a comprehensive health evaluation designed to assess your pet’s overall well-being. During the visit, your veterinarian will typically examine your pet’s eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, heart, lungs, joints, and abdomen. These appointments may also include vaccinations, parasite prevention, diagnostic screenings, and personalized guidance on nutrition and lifestyle. Unlike sick visits, wellness exams focus on prevention rather than treatment, making them a cornerstone of lifelong pet care.

Puppies and Kittens

Young pets grow rapidly and require frequent veterinary visits during their first year. Wellness exams are often scheduled every 3-4 weeks until they are fully vaccinated. These visits help ensure proper growth, development, and early disease prevention.

Adult Pets

Healthy adult dogs and cats typically benefit from a wellness exam once a year. Annual visits allow your veterinarian to establish a baseline for your pet’s health, update vaccinations, and address subtle changes that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Senior Pets

As pets age, their health needs change. Senior pets - generally considered seven years and older - often require wellness exams every six months. More frequent checkups help monitor age-related conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, heart issues, and weight changes.

Signs It May Be Time to Schedule a Visit

Even if your pet seems healthy, certain changes may signal the need for a wellness exam sooner rather than later. These include:

Changes in appetite or weight

Decreased energy or mobility

Increased thirst or urination

Behavioral changes

Persistent itching, coughing, or digestive issues

Catching these signs early can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.

Why Consistency Matters

Regular wellness exams help build a long-term relationship between your pet and their veterinary team. Over time, your veterinarian gains a deeper understanding of what’s normal for your pet, making it easier to identify subtle changes. Preventive care can also reduce the risk of costly emergency visits by addressing concerns early.

Schedule Your Pet’s Next Checkup Today

Scheduling your pet’s wellness exams on a consistent basis is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support their long-term health. Whether your pet is a playful puppy, a healthy adult, or a beloved senior, routine checkups provide peace of mind and ensure they receive the care they need at every life stage.

Contact Pet Hospitals of Hawaii to schedule your pet’s next wellness exam and take a proactive step toward a longer, healthier life together. Visit our office in Waipahu Waikele, Wahiawa, Makai, or Kailua, and a new location coming soon! Call (808) 671-7387 (PETS) to book an appointment today.