If any deviation from normal is detected, further workup is a good idea. A cardiac workup usually entails an EKG to assess the electrical activity of the heart and x-rays or an echocardiogram to evaluate the heart's size and shape. A careful evaluation of the abdomen must be a part of the physical exam. So in addition to feeling what's on the outside of the pet, what's inside is just as important. The cat in this photo had early signs of Feline Infectious Peritonitis, a virus that, among other nasty things, severely affects the lining of the cat's abdomen.
Oral hygiene is one of the most overlooked aspects of pet health care.
The mouth can harbor infected gums, loose teeth, objects stuck between teeth, tumors and all sorts of other surprises. And often the pet shows no signs of discomfort from even serious oral abnormalities. Older dogs and cats especially may have oral hygiene difficulties that would vastly improve if dental and oral treatment was instituted. Although the eyes may not need a thorough exam where the veterinarian inspects the interior of the eye with special instruments, at least a close inspection of the visible eye structures and lids is a part of a complete physical exam. Early cataract formation may be detected, any haziness on the surface of the cornea can be detected and inflammation of the surrounding eye structures can be assessed.