VA Medicine - Quick Study

normal temperature of a dog or cat

99.5 - 102.2 (Fahrenheit)

normal pulse of a dog

70 - 140

normal pulse of a cat

110 - 140

normal respiration rate of a dog

10 - 30

normal respiration rate of a cat

20 - 40

what to look for when examining eyes

abnormal color of sclera, abnormal or unequal pupil size, discharge or squinting, corneal cloudiness, abnormal eye movement, eyelid mass, third eyelid protrusion

what to look for when assessing general appearance

bright, alert, responsive, weakness, panting, ataxia, coughing, respiratory distress, lameness, and body score (normal, obese, malnourished, etc.)

what to look for when examining ears

presence of order or discharge, excessive hair, head tilt, hair loss, parasites

what to look for when examining the nose

discharge, excessive respiratory, ulcerations, masses

what to look for when examining the mouth

slow capillary refill time (>2 sec), poor or abnormal mucous membranes color, excessive mouth odor, periodontal disease, retained deciduous teeth, foreign bodies, masses, ulcers

what to look for when examining the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems

heart murmur, diminished heart sounds, abnormal heart rate or rhythm, harsh lung sound, weak femoral or jugular pulse

what to look for when examining lymph nodes

enlarged or tender

what to look for when examining the skin or coat

poor hair texture, hair loss, lumps, bumps, hernias, scales, crusts, infections, external parasites, discoloration, rash, wounds