At Calistoga Pet Clinic in Calistoga, CA, we know your furry companion is family—and keeping her healthy is your top priority. Whether you’re raising a rambunctious puppy, cuddling a sleepy senior cat, or caring for a rabbit, bird, or reptile, we’re here to support your journey. Understanding the basics of general pet health is the foundation for a long, happy life with your four-legged friend.

From the importance of preventive pet care to the benefits of wellness exams, our team of experienced veterinarians is ready to help you every step of the way. Let’s explore how to keep your pet healthy year-round with a combination of education, prevention, and love.

Why Preventive Pet Care Matters

We all want our pets to stay healthy, but the key to preventing illness is catching issues before they become serious. That’s where routine veterinary care for dogs and cats comes in. Regular checkups allow us to:

• Monitor weight and overall health
  
• Detect early signs of disease
  
• Keep vaccinations up to date
  
• Discuss nutrition and lifestyle
  
• Build a trusting relationship between your pet and your vet
  

Think of these visits as your pet’s version of an annual physical. They give us the chance to spot trends, address questions, and keep your furry friend feeling her best.

Annual Exams: The Cornerstone of Wellness

At Calistoga Pet Clinic, we recommend at least one wellness exam per year for healthy adult pets, and two per year for seniors or pets with chronic conditions. These appointments typically include:

• A full nose-to-tail physical exam
  
• Weight and body condition assessment
  
• Dental check
  
• Vaccination updates
  
• Parasite prevention
  
• Bloodwork or diagnostic testing (if needed)
  

By bringing your pet in regularly, we can tailor care to her needs and intervene early when concerns arise. It’s one of the most important steps in general pet health.

Nutrition: Fuel for a Healthy Life

What your pet eats has a big impact on her overall health. Our vets can help you choose the best food based on her species, age, weight, and health status. For example:

• Puppies and kittens need nutrient-dense food to support growth
  
• Senior pets may benefit from diets that support joint and kidney health
  
• Overweight pets may require portion control and a lower-calorie diet
  
• Pets with allergies may need limited-ingredient or prescription diets
  

Feeding the right food and avoiding table scraps helps prevent obesity, digestive issues, and long-term disease. Not sure what’s best for Fluffy or Fido? We’re happy to help.

Dental Health: Don’t Forget the Teeth

Did you know that dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs and cats? By age three, most pets already have signs of gum disease. Left untreated, this can lead to tooth loss, pain, and even damage to internal organs.

That’s why we recommend:

• Brushing your pet’s teeth several times a week
  
• Using dental treats or rinses
  
• Scheduling professional cleanings when needed
  

Good oral hygiene plays a huge role in how to keep your pet healthy year-round.

Parasite Prevention: A Year-Round Priority

Fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites are more than a nuisance—they can lead to serious health problems. In Calistoga and the surrounding Napa Valley, year-round parasite control is essential.

At your pet’s wellness visit, we’ll discuss:

• Monthly flea and tick preventives
  
• Heartworm prevention
  
• Deworming schedules
  
• Zoonotic diseases (those that can be passed to humans)
  

We’ll help you choose safe, effective products to keep your pet parasite-free and comfortable.

Behavior and Mental Health

Physical health isn’t the only thing that matters. Your pet’s mental and emotional wellbeing is just as important to her overall quality of life. Our team is trained to help with:

• Anxiety and fear-based behaviors
  
• Socialization for puppies and kittens
  
• Enrichment for indoor pets
  
• Aging-related behavior changes
  

Whether you’ve got a high-energy pup, a shy cat, or a bird that needs more stimulation, we’ll guide you with tips and tools to support behavioral wellness.

Fun Fact: Enrichment Prevents More Than Boredom

Studies show that pets with access to toys, puzzles, social time, and training are less likely to develop destructive behaviors or stress-related health issues. Keeping your furry friend mentally stimulated is just as important as exercise!

When to Call the Vet

Knowing when to seek veterinary attention is part of responsible pet ownership. Contact us if your pet:

• Stops eating or drinking
  
• Has vomiting or diarrhea for more than 24 hours
  
• Develops coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing
  
• Shows signs of pain or limping
  
• Acts lethargic or unusually withdrawn
  
• Has a change in bathroom habits
  

When in doubt, give us a call—we’d rather see your pet and confirm she’s okay than miss something important.

FAQ: General Pet Health

How often should my pet see the vet?

At least once a year for healthy adults, and twice a year for seniors or pets with chronic conditions. Puppies and kittens may need more frequent visits early on.

What vaccines does my pet need?

Core vaccines vary by species but may include rabies, distemper, parvo, and Bordetella for dogs; and rabies and FVRCP for cats. Lifestyle-based vaccines are also available.

What’s the best flea and tick prevention?

That depends on your pet’s species, size, and environment. We offer both oral and topical options and will help you choose the safest one.

Should I brush my pet’s teeth?

For dogs and cats, yes: if they will tolerate it. You may need to take some time with training. Daily brushing is ideal, but even a few times a week can help prevent dental disease. Ask us for tips and demonstrations at your next visit.

Visit Our Calistoga, CA Veterinary Clinic for Complete Pet Health

Looking for trusted advice and care for general pet health in Calistoga, CA? You could search online for a vet near me, or simply visit the friendly, knowledgeable team at Calistoga Pet Clinic. We provide routine veterinary care for dogs and cats, nutritional guidance, parasite prevention, and all the support you need to help your pet thrive.

Call today to schedule your pet’s next checkup and experience the difference that personalized, preventive care can make.

This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult your veterinarian for specific medical advice and personalized care for your pet.