Content reviewed by Nell Ostermeier, D.V.M., CVA, FAAVA.

Let's face it: Vet visits can be a total pain in the tail. Your dog or cat is pressed, you're stressed, and suddenly you're dropping cash on tests you didn't even know existed. But what if we told you there's a way to make these trips less of a nightmare?

We talked to Figo's resident vet spokesperson Nell Turano, D.V.M., CVA, FAAVA and asked her to give us the inside scoop on how to ace your next appointment. Buckle up, pet parents – here's how to get the most out of that next visit.

1. Pre-visit detective work

Before you even step foot in the clinic, channel your inner private investigator. When you're booking that appointment, ask the tech or front desk clarifying questions so you can be prepared. Do they need your dog's poop? Should your cat skip breakfast? Getting these details upfront helps you know what to expect and makes the visit more efficient. Plus, it means fewer surprises (and sometimes even less $$) when you get there.

2. Zen mode

Here's a wild concept: Your vet visit doesn't have to feel like a daunting, uphill battle. The key? Treat it like any other day. Schedule it when you're not rushing around and when you’re less likely to be flustered because guess what? If you're freaking out, your pet's gonna freak out too. For the extra anxious pets, you may want to talk to your vet about anti-anxiety meds. Because sometimes, we all need a little extra help.

To make visits even less fear-inducing for dogs and cats, we recommend you look for a Fear Free certified vet clinic. They go the extra mile from start to finish to ensure your pup or kitty stays cool as a cucumber.

3. Notes are your best friend

You know how you always forget the most important questions until you're halfway home? Not anymore. Come armed with a list of questions, whether on your phone or scribbled on the back of an old receipt (we don't judge). If your pet's sick, bring a timeline of their symptoms. And don't be shy about taking notes during the visit. Your vet's not going to think you're paranoid– they'll be impressed by your dedication.

4. Spill the tea (all of it)

Look, we get it. Sometimes you don't want to admit that you let your dog eat an entire wheel of cheese. Or that you left your “special gummies” out and Fluffy decided to make them a snack. But here's the deal: Your vet has seen it all, and they're not here to judge your life choices. Their number one priority is to help your pet. So come clean about everything. The more they know, the better they can figure out how to make things better. And isn't that the whole point?

5. Don't ghost your vet

If your vet says they want to see your pet again, don't pull a Houdini and disappear. Even if you think everything's fine, your dog or cat could be hiding some sneaky health issues. Problems can go "subclinical" – fancy vet lingo for "still there but not showing symptoms." So please, show up for that follow-up. It could save you a world of trouble (and money) down the road.

Bottom line? Being a savvy pet parent isn't always easy, but these hacks can help make your vet visits smoother and less stressful. Your vet will be impressed, your pet will be in good hands, and you'll feel like you’re prepared for anything and everything that comes your way.

Lizz Caputo is the Manager of Content Strategy at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.