Performing the Small Animal Physical Examination offers an easy-to-follow guide to successfully executing a thorough physical exam in cats and dogs, with nearly 1,000 clinical photographs depicting step-by-step details. Provides comprehensive, practical information on the physical examination in small animal patients, presents nearly 1,000 color photographs with step-by-step details of the procedures and principles, offers advice on preparing the examination room, useful tips, and concrete guidance for examining each body system, outlines a systematic, in-depth approach to the initial examination in dogs and cats, supports new and experienced veterinarians and veterinary technicians alike in performing a thorough basic exam.

Setting the stage : feline-friendly practice -- Assessing the big picture : the body, the coat, and the skin of the cat -- Examining the head of the cat -- Examining the endocrine and lymphatic systems of the cat -- Examining the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of the cat -- Examining the abdominal cavity of the cat -- Examining the musculoskeletal system of the cat -- Evaluating the nervous system of the cat -- Setting the stage : canine-friendly practice and low-stress handling -- Assessing the big picture : the body, the coat, and the skin of the dog -- Examining the head of the dog -- Examining the endocrine and lymphatic systems of the dog -- Examining the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of the dog -- Examining the abdominal cavity of the dog -- Examining the musculoskeletal system of the dog -- Evaluating the nervous system of the dog.