Pets are definitely entertaining and adorable to watch. But getting Fluffy or Fido isn’t just about cuddles, purrs, and tail wags. There is a lot of responsibility that comes with bringing a pet into your house. You assume responsibility for all aspects of your animal friend’s health and well-being. Keeping an eye out for any signs of illness, injury, or disease is critical. Because pets are unable to convey their health, we must be aware of the signs. This article by a local Orlando, FL veterinarian discusses many warning signals that your pet may require veterinary assistance right away.
What Are Some Signs That Your Pet Needs Veterinary Attention?
Not every pet health condition requires immediate care. Although even minor issues must be addressed, a lot of them can be resolved with an appointment rather than a trip to the pet urgent care center. These include damaged toenails, tartar on the teeth, minor scrapes, and skin discomfort. Having said that, it’s critical to recognize when your pet actually needs emergency care.
Here are some of the important warning signs.
Vomiting And Diarrhea
To be fair, it is quite common for pets to have occasional stomach problems. As you may be aware, our feline friends are also prone to hairballs. An occasional bout of vomiting or diarrhea may not be cause for concern. However, persistent, forceful, or excessive vomiting or diarrhea, as well as bloody or frothy vomit, are evident signs of a problem. To be on the safe side, see your veterinarian.
Weight Fluctuations
Our animal friends have a way of wrapping people around their paws. If everyone in the family has been feeding Fido sweets all day, you shouldn’t be surprised to see him gain weight. However, if you’re unsure why your pet is abruptly gaining or losing weight, consult your New Albany, IN veterinarian.
Breathing Problems
In hot weather, dogs pant to help maintain their body temperature. It’s quite common for Fido to pant a little following a fun game of Frisbee, Fetch, or Tag. However, if your furry friend is panting excessively, there could be an underlying issue. Shallow breathing, wheezing, gasping, and coughing can all suggest that something is wrong.
Instability
Staggering and stumbling can indicate underlying medical issues. These can range from poisoning to neurological disorders, with many other concerns in between. This is an obvious sign that your pet needs immediate emergency care.
Behavioral Shifts
When sick, pets, like people, don’t always act like themselves. Make sure to give your furry bestie the attention they need and schedule time for them every day. As you become more acquainted with Fido and Fluffy, you will become more adept at detecting any changes that may suggest a medical condition. You want to look for things that are unusual for your pet.
Here are a few examples:
- A friendly, sociable pet that suddenly becomes withdrawn
- Unexpected irritability
- Pets that are typically shy or aloof suddenly seeking attention
- Changes in vocalization
- A calm and composed pet that unexpectedly becomes quite vocal
- A chatty pet that goes silent
- Disinterest in food
Healthy animals have a healthy appetite. When an animal demonstrates a lack of appetite, it is nearly always cause for concern. There may be a few exceptions, such as a reptile about to shed its skin, but in general, this indicates that something is wrong.
A note on finicky felines: while cats might be picky, a selective kitty will frequently vocalize to demand something different. A cat that is uninterested in food may be ill.
Increased Water Intake
It is quite normal for Fido and Fluffy to feel especially thirsty in hot weather or after indulging in strenuous activities. However, if your pet is constantly draining their bowl, there could be an underlying problem.
Restlessness
You should be able to tell the difference between unease and zoomies. An example would be if your dog continually changes positions, paces, or gets up and down, indicating that he is unable to find a comfortable spot.
Unkempt Coats
If you’re not feeling your best, you may lack the energy or enthusiasm to follow your typical beauty or self-care routine. This also applies to pets, particularly cats and small animals. Fluffy normally keeps her fur in excellent shape, and will groom herself daily to ensure that it is silky and tidy. However, if she isn’t feeling well, she might not be up to it. Her fur will quickly lose luster and become unkempt.
It is crucial to note that this is not always cause for alarm in senior cats. As cats age, they frequently exhibit a somewhat unkempt appearance. That’s because stretching and extending their bodies enough to groom themselves efficiently becomes more difficult. If your kitty buddy is in her golden years, you may wish to help her by gently brushing her. For further information, please consult your Orlando, FL veterinarian.
Reduced Enthusiasm For Play
Pets are a tremendous source of enjoyment and fun, thanks to their playful nature. If your pet is feeling ill, they may lose interest in their favorite toys or hobbies.
Lethargic Behavior
We acknowledge that some of our patients appear to have made laziness a lifelong aim. It is reasonable to presume that some of you have idle pets lazing on your couch. Even the most laid-back pets should be vigilant and aware of their environment, anxiously anticipating mealtime and playtime. If your pet looks to be lacking in energy, there could be an underlying issue.
Going To The Pet Urgent Care Center
If you notice any of these warning signals, the first step should be to contact the clinic. Some problems can be postponed until you can make an appointment. Other red flags should always lead you to seek emergency care for your pet.
The list includes the following items:
- Shortness Of Breath
- Difficulty Urinating Or Defecating
- Swollen Abdomen
- Bloody Diarrhea
- Ingestion Of Poisonous Foods
- Difficulty Breathing
- Choking
- Seizures
- Bleeding
- Eye Injury
- Lameness Or The Inability To Walk
- Unconsciousness
- Broken Bones
- Fractures
- Obvious Signs Of Pain
- Unable To Deliver Puppies Or Kittens
- Vomiting Or Diarrhea
- Balance Disorder
- Sudden Blindness
- Loss Of Consciousness
- Discolored Gums
Of course, if you know or suspect that your pet has been injured or has ingested something unsafe, then you should absolutely go to a pet urgent care center, without delay.
We also recommend that you get a pet first-aid kit. You can buy one made for humans and then customize it by adding pet-specific items. The exact things you’d want to add will depend on your pet, so ask for specific advice.
Of course, the best kit won’t be of any use if you don’t know what to do. Buy or print a good pet first-aid kit or brochure, and keep it with the kit. In fact, it’s best to keep everything near your pet’s carrier, so it’s all in one spot if you need to grab it.
If you are unclear whether your pet needs immediate care, contact your Orlando, FL animal clinic for help. It is always wise to err on the side of caution.
Contact Your Orlando, FL Pet Hospital
Do you need assistance with your pet’s health or care? Contact us here at your Orlando, FL animal clinic, now!
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