Your Autumn Health Check List for Dogs and Cats
October 12, 2026
Did you know that autumn is a great time to book your pet in for a check-up?
Many North London pet owners ask us whether their pet needs a check-up when they appear to be healthy. We acknowledge that a vet visit can sometimes feel hard to juggle with a busy schedule, and can be stressful for pets who struggle to be away from home and in a veterinary environment. That’s why Elizavet’s team often see owners wait until there’s a concern before coming in.
However, our vets in Maida Vale are here to explain why routine check-ups can be incredibly valuable for preventative care, and why autumn is the perfect time to book.
Book a check-up with our friendly team at Elizavet today.
Does my pet need a check-up if they appear healthy?
A check-up can feel unnecessary when your pet doesn’t appear to have any issues. However, our veterinary team at Elizavet explain a simple way of reframing this: viewing their check-up as a pet ‘MOT’, necessary to detect and address any potential issues before they escalate.
Pets can hide illness very well – not only are they unable to tell us when something is wrong, but many animals have a natural instinct to hide ‘weakness’. Having a check-up allows our vets in Maida Vale to pick up on anything that might be less obvious to pet owners at home, such as dental disease, abnormal weight or skin issues, so that they can be treated without any further delay. This can often result in simpler treatments that provide both better outcomes and lower costs in the long run.
Even if your pet is completely healthy, a check-up is never a waste of time – having a record of your pet’s current baseline provides valuable information for us to compare against if things ever do change in the future.
What is included in a pet health check?
At Elizavet, our team are always transparent about what to expect from your visit. Knowing beforehand can help to soothe any worries or anxiety for both you and your pet.
Here is what a check-up generally includes:
- Physical examination, checking the coat, skin, eyes, ears, overall appearance and mobility
- Listening to your dog’s heart and lungs
- Teeth and gums check
- Weight and body condition
- Checking whether your pet is due or up to date with their vaccinations and parasite prevention
- Any general questions you may have about your pet’s behaviour
- Updating their records to ensure everything is documented
Why is autumn a good time for a check-up?
Our veterinary team at Elizavet explain that with the change in seasons, your pet may naturally experience shifts in routine. This often means less time outdoors and less exercise, along with changes in diet or feeding schedules, which can lead to weight gain or changes in behaviour. Additionally, problems from parasites such as fleas and ticks (which can be more prevalent in the summer) may have gone unnoticed, while the colder weather can bring more difficulties for animals with joint, heart or other underlying conditions.
That’s why many owners across North London see the shift into autumn as a good transitional period to bring their pet in for a check-up.
How often does my pet need a check-up?
For adult pets, general guidance advises having a routine check-up at least once a year, and many owners choose to do this at their pet’s annual vaccination booster appointment. However, a lot can change in a few months, especially as the seasons shift. If your pet’s last check-up was in the spring or summer, an autumn visit gives our vets in Maida Vale the chance to spot any changes early and make sure your pet is well prepared for the colder months ahead.
How often your pet needs a check-up will also depend on their species and age. Young pets and senior pets often benefit from more frequent visits, with many older pets seen every six months to help monitor age-related conditions such as joint stiffness.
If you’re unsure, just get in touch. Elizavet’s team are always happy to help.
Haven’t seen us for a while? Book a check-up today.
