Which lymph nodes should be palpated in a dog or cat's examination?

In a thorough clinical examination of dogs and cats, it is vital to palpate various lymph nodes to assess the animal's health status.

Both the submandibular and axillary lymph nodes are important in evaluating a pet for signs of infection, inflammation, or other medical conditions. The submandibular lymph nodes, located beneath the jaw, are particularly relevant for conditions affecting the oral cavity, dental issues, and upper respiratory infections. The axillary lymph nodes, found in the armpit area, can be indicative of immune responses to diseases affecting the forelimbs or thoracic cavity.

Similarly, the popliteal and inguinal lymph nodes are significant for different areas. The popliteal lymph nodes are located behind the knee and may swell in response to limb infections, while the inguinal lymph nodes in the groin area can indicate problems in the lower body, including skin infections or issues in the reproductive area.

Thus, palpating both sets of lymph nodes (submandibular and axillary, as well as popliteal and inguinal) provides a comprehensive assessment of the animal's health status across different regions of the body. This practice ensures that the veterinarian can identify potential underlying issues more effectively.