Our pets may get sick or feel a little sluggish from time to time, but may get better on their own. However, there are many symptoms that a pet may show that should never be overlooked and require vet care. As a pet parent it may be difficult to know which ones these are sometimes. Following is a list of some symptoms to watch for that should always be checked out by your veterinarian:
- Unexplained weight loss (even if gradual)
- Unexplained weight gain
- Excessive vomiting
- Excessive liquid/bloody or recurrent diarrhea
- Sudden inability to get up (may be with or without heavy breathing)
- Labored/rapid breathing (increased movement/effort in abdomen would be seen) *Does not include normal panting*
- A cat that is panting
- Completely non-weight bearing on a leg
- Pale or blue/purple mucous membranes (look at the non-pigmented part of the gums/inside of lip)
- Bloated abdomen
- Loss of appetite with one or more of any other symptoms from list
- Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours, or decline in appetite over days to weeks
- Blood in urine
- Sudden onset of urinary accidents in house/urinating frequently
- Difficulty passing urine (vocalizing while straining especially in cats)
- Decline in energy that doesn’t resolve in 24 hours. *If coupled with one or more other symptoms from list, bring in sooner*
- Inability to get comfortable. Possibly whimpering or crying out, either when touched, moving, or trying to lie down.
If your pet is not their usual self, it’s never a bad idea to have them checked out. You can either call to speak with a Vet Tech to discuss symptoms or schedule an exam. The Vet will need some information about their eating habits, energy level, drinking habits, and how their stools look to help determine what’s wrong.
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