Questions
What Does a Vet Wellness Exam Include for Cats?
A cat wellness exam includes a head-to-tail physical, weight check, dental and ear evaluation, heart and lung auscultation, abdominal palpation, and parasite screening. Your vet will also discuss nutrition, behavior, and preventive care, tailoring recommendations to your cat's age and health.
What Happens During a Cat Wellness Exam?
During a cat wellness exam, your veterinarian performs a thorough head-to-tail assessment to catch early signs of illness and keep your cat healthy. Here's what to expect at a typical appointment.
| Check | What the Vet Does | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Weight and body condition | Weighs your cat and assesses body fat and muscle | Detects obesity or unexplained weight loss |
| Temperature, pulse, respiration | Measures vital signs | Identifies fever, dehydration, or respiratory issues |
| Eyes, ears, and mouth | Inspects for redness, discharge, tartar, or lesions | Catches infections, dental disease, and oral problems |
| Heart and lungs | Listens with a stethoscope | Detects murmurs, arrhythmias, or respiratory conditions |
| Abdomen | Palpates the belly | Checks for organ enlargement, masses, or pain |
| Skin and coat | Examines for fleas, ticks, hair loss, or lumps | Reveals parasites, allergies, or skin infections |
| Parasite screening | May take a fecal sample or check for worms | Prevents internal parasites from causing serious illness |
Your vet will also discuss nutrition, behavior, and preventive care like vaccinations. For senior cats, bloodwork may be recommended to check organ function. If you're unsure whether your cat needs a wellness exam or a sick visit, see our comparison guide.
Cat Wellness Exam Cost in Forest Hills
The cost of a cat wellness exam in Forest Hills varies based on the clinic, your cat's age, and any additional tests. A basic exam typically falls in a range that depends on these factors.
| Factor | Why It Matters | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Urban clinics often have higher overhead | Varies; call for a quote |
| Vet experience | Specialists or experienced vets may charge more | Varies |
| Additional tests | Bloodwork, fecal, or urinalysis add to the cost | Varies; ask for itemized pricing |
| New client discount | Some clinics offer free first exams | Free at Austin Veterinary Care (terms apply) |
At Austin Veterinary Care, we offer a free first exam for new clients, so you can budget for the visit without the initial fee. For help covering costs, see how to apply for pet financing.
How Often Should Cats Get a Wellness Exam?
A good fit if…
- Your cat is an adult — annual exams are the standard recommendation.
- Your cat is a senior — biannual exams help catch age-related issues early.
- You've adopted a new cat — a baseline exam establishes health status.
Consider another option if…
- Your cat shows symptoms — a sick visit may be more appropriate than a wellness exam.
- You're on a tight budget — prioritize essential tests and ask about payment plans.
Most vets, including the American Association of Feline Practitioners, recommend annual wellness exams for healthy adult cats. For seniors, more frequent visits may be advised. If you're unsure, ask your vet during the exam.
Book a Cat Wellness Exam in Forest Hills
- Call us — Dial (718) 480-6100 to schedule your cat's wellness exam at Austin Veterinary Care.
- Choose a time — We're open Monday 9 AM–6 PM, Tuesday and Thursday 10 AM–7 PM, and Friday 9 AM–6 PM. We're closed on weekends.
- Prepare your cat — Bring any medical records and a list of questions.
- Visit us — We're located at 68-60 Austin St Store #8, Forest Hills, NY 11375, near Bramson ORT College and Yellowstone Park.
- Enjoy your first exam free — New clients receive a free first exam (terms apply).
We see cats and small animals, and we offer same-day urgent care during business hours. For more on what to bring, see our kitten first visit checklist.
For details on services and visits, see the main page about vet forest hills.
Directions to our vet in Forest Hills from La Stella Restaurant
Start at La Stella Restaurant and head to Austin Veterinary Care at 68-60 Austin St Store #8, Forest Hills, NY 11375.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a wellness exam and a sick visit?
A wellness exam is a preventive check-up for a healthy cat, while a sick visit addresses specific symptoms like vomiting or lethargy. Wellness exams focus on early detection and prevention, whereas sick visits diagnose and treat active issues. For more, see our guide on [[page:cat-wellness-exam-vs-sick-visit|cat wellness vs sick visits]].
Do cats need bloodwork every year?
Annual bloodwork is recommended for senior cats (age 7+) to detect kidney disease, thyroid issues, and diabetes early. For younger cats, it may be optional unless there are concerns. Discuss your cat's specific needs with your vet. Learn more about [[page:do-cats-need-bloodwork-every-year|why cats need bloodwork]].
Can I get a free first exam for my cat?
Yes, at Austin Veterinary Care, new clients receive a free first exam for their cat (terms apply). This is a great way to establish care without the initial cost. Call us at (718) 480-6100 to schedule.
What should I bring to my cat's wellness exam?
Bring any previous medical records, a list of medications, and a stool sample if possible. Also, come with questions about nutrition, behavior, or concerns. For a full checklist, see our [[page:kitten-first-vet-visit-checklist-forest-hills|kitten first visit checklist]].
Also asked as
- What happens during a cat wellness exam?
- What does a routine cat check-up include?
- What should I expect at my cat's annual exam?