From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
During your first veterinary visit with your pet, expect a comprehensive wellness examination that typically lasts 30-45 minutes, as this initial visit is crucial in establishing a baseline for your pet's health and beginning the important relationship between you, your pet, and the veterinary team. The veterinarian will take your pet's complete medical history, including vaccination status, diet, behavior, and any concerns you have. The physical examination will include checking your pet's weight, temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, eyes, ears, mouth, skin, coat, and palpating the abdomen. Core vaccinations will likely be administered based on your pet's age and lifestyle - for dogs, this typically includes rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus; for cats, rabies, feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia.
Some key points to consider during this visit include:
- Bringing any previous medical records
- Providing a stool sample for parasite testing
- Being prepared to discuss your pet's diet and behavior
- Reducing stress by bringing your cat in a secure carrier and keeping dogs on a leash
- Discussing parasite prevention, including products like Heartgard Plus or Nexgard for dogs, or Revolution for cats, with the veterinarian, as studies such as 1 have shown the efficacy of certain products in preventing parasite infestations.
It's also important to note that the veterinarian may discuss various preventative measures, such as flea and tick control, as well as heartworm prevention, as seen in studies like 2 and 3. However, the most recent and highest quality study, 1, provides evidence for the year-round efficacy of a single treatment of fluralaner injectable suspension against repeated infestations with fleas and ticks, which can inform the discussion on parasite prevention. Overall, the first veterinary visit is a critical step in ensuring your pet's health and well-being, and by being prepared and informed, you can help make the most of this visit and set your pet up for a lifetime of good health.