Assessing General Health in Animals

Visual examinations are an initial method of assessing an animal’s general health.
Observations can include physiological changes, such as loss or gain of weight, changes in fur or feather quality, absence or presence of wounds, and unusual posture.
Behavioural changes can also indicate ill health, with animals potentially showing lethargy, increased sleep, decreased appetite, or aggressive behaviour.
Pay attention to the animal’s environment, which should be clean, safe, and appropriately enriched to support the animal’s physical and behavioural needs.

Physical examinations allow a closer look at the animal’s health, with typically temperature, heart rate, and respiration rate checked.
Normal values for these rates should be known for each species, as variations might indicate sickness.
The body condition score is used to assess the animal’s overall physical status, considering factors like muscle mass and fat coverage.
Palpation - feeling with hands or fingers - may reveal abnormalities such as lumps, swellings, or areas of pain.

Animals should be assessed against standard species-specific norms, such as carrying capacity, longevity, and breeding output.
Significant divergence from norms, such as underweight or overweight conditions, could indicate health problems.

Diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, and imaging techniques can provide more detailed information about an animal’s health.
Regular parasite screenings are essential to detect internal and external parasites.
Sampling and testing may be used for diagnostic tests, and for disease surveillance and monitoring.

When serious health issues are suspected, consultation with a veterinarian is crucial.
A professional diagnosis can identify complex health issues and ensure the provision of appropriate treatment.
Veterinarians can also provide advice on preventative care including vaccinations, nutrition, and responsible ownership practices.

Keeping records of each animal’s medical history, feeding habits, and behaviour can help detect changes over time.
Such records can also assist a veterinarian in diagnosing or treating health issues.
Details of parentage and genetic information can help predict susceptibility to hereditary diseases.
Regular updates and checks of records are essential for comprehensive health monitoring.