Wellness Exam Cost in California (2026)
California vet costs are 35% above national avg. See exact wellness exam prices, city breakdowns, and how to save.
Wellness Exam
$88
California average
National Average
$65
per exam
Annual Preventive Care
$330
exam + vaccines est.
What's Included in a Wellness Exam in California?
Physical examination
Head-to-tail check: eyes, ears, teeth, heart, lungs, abdomen, joints
Weight & body condition
Track trends, adjust diet recommendations
Vaccine review & boosters
Based on age and lifestyle — $20–$40 each in California
Heartworm & parasite test
Typically $35–$60 in California — separate from exam
Fecal test
$25–$45 in California — separate line item
Blood work
Annual senior panels recommended 7+ years — $80–$200 in California
Vet Cost by City in California
| City | Wellness Exam |
|---|---|
| San Francisco | $110 |
| Los Angeles | $90 |
| San Diego | $85 |
| Sacramento | $75 |
| San Jose | $95 |
Wellness Exam Cost in California — FAQ
How much does a vet wellness exam cost in California?
A routine wellness exam in California averages $88 in 2026 — 35% above the national average of $65. Annual preventive care including exams, vaccines, and parasite prevention runs $330.
What is included in a wellness exam in California?
A standard wellness exam includes a full physical examination, weight check, heart and lung assessment, and recommendations for vaccines and parasite prevention. In California, the exam itself costs $88. Vaccines, bloodwork, and preventatives are billed separately.
How often should I take my pet for a wellness exam in California?
Annual wellness exams are recommended for adult dogs and cats. Senior pets (7+ years) benefit from semi-annual exams. At $88 per visit in California, preventive care is the most cost-effective way to catch problems early and avoid expensive emergency treatment later.
Other Vet Procedure Costs in California
Wellness Exam Cost in Other States
See full vet cost breakdown for California: