ABSTRACT
A good, thorough physical examination takes only a few minutes to perform but reveals a wealth of information to the veterinarian. A large portion of a physical examination is based on palpation. Careful palpation of the intermandibular space under the jaw and the region ventral to the opening of the external auditory canal allows assessment of the salivary glands and lymph nodes. Generally, the structures are not identified as separate entities, but the abnormal enlargement of any of them may be obvious on palpation. Lateral to the trachea, palpation is performed the length of each jugular furrow checking for lumps or signs of discomfort. The bladder is assessed in the caudal abdomen, checking for distention, wall thickness, and presence of calculi. Palpation of the pregnant uterus is easiest at 21-25 days post breeding. Abdominal palpation of pregnancy for number of kittens is best accomplished at 17-25 days of gestation and age of fetuses can be determined via serial plasma progesterone.
