Growth curve

Did you know that a puppy or kitten that grows too quickly is much more likely to develop arthritis and obesity later in life? At our veterinary clinic, we prioritize puppy and kitten check-ups where we monitor growth and can advise you on feeding amounts. 

During these appointments, our experienced veterinary assistants offer playful consultations, assessing your puppy or kitten’s growth, answering your questions, and strengthening the bond between our team and your pet. This helps your puppy or kitten feel more comfortable during any necessary procedures or exams in the future.

During the check-up, we conduct a brief examination of your puppy or kitten and discuss their growth curve. It’s an opportunity for you to ask questions about topics like teething, grooming products, behavior, and training, and any other concerns you have regarding raising and caring for your pet. It’s essential for puppies and kittens to grow responsibly, a concept not everyone is familiar with. Many are unaware that rapid growth increases the risk of conditions such as arthritis, growth pains, hip dysplasia, and obesity later in life. Puppies and kittens come in different shapes and sizes, and they all need to follow the right growth curve. Overfeeding or excessive treats can cause them to exceed this curve. Conversely, a thin puppy or kitten won’t gain weight by feeding more; they’ll just grow faster. Additionally, musculoskeletal issues can arise if the composition of their diet (such as the amount of calcium and phosphorus) is incorrect.

We recommend bringing your puppy and kitten for monthly check-ups with our experienced veterinary assistants until they are 12 months old. At 9, 12, and 24 weeks of age, these appointments occur with the veterinarian, combined with necessary vaccinations. With our FeedWise nutrition program, we can not only closely monitor your puppy’s growth curve but also determine the correct composition of their diet and advise you on feeding amounts.