We all worry about the health and safety of our beloved pets, so being able to easily spot the signs that something is wrong and requires immediate attention is a key skill to have. Whilst some issues are obvious, others are less so, and with acting quickly crucial in many scenarios, the 5 signs below are definite reasons to rush to the vet.
Just like us, your pet can experience sudden health issues that, if not addressed quickly, can lead to serious complications or even be life-threatening. With that in mind, how many of the below did you already know? This list is not exhaustive (as there are endless reasons to see your vet), so if you are unsure of the symptoms your pet is showing, always seek the advice of your vet rather than self-diagnose.
Recognising these signs early, you can ensure your pet receives the necessary care right when they need it the most, helping them live their best life for longer.
#1 – Open Wounds or Bleeding
Starting with one of the most visual, an open wound is always cause for concern, even if it seems minor. From superficial scratches on the surface to deep cuts or punctures that expose underlying tissues, these injuries are not only painful for your pet but can also quickly become infected if not dealt with, leading to more severe health complications.
If you notice any wound, no matter how small, it’s crucial to take it seriously. Quick treatment of open wounds will avoid infections and help them heal faster. Assess the severity of the wound. If bleeding is continuous or the wound is deep, you’ll want a vet to assess this as soon as possible.
Until you can get to a vet, apply pressure with a clean tea towel or cloth to control bleeding. The RSPCA advise to loosen pressure for 20 seconds every 15-20 minutes. Avoid applying over-the-counter ointments without consulting your vet first, as some ingredients may be harmful to pets. The quicker you can get to your vet, the better.
#2 – Limping or Struggling to Move
Limping in pets can be a sign of pain, discomfort, or an underlying health issue that requires immediate attention. Everything from injuries, such as sprains or fractures, or medical conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia can cause this, so if your pet starts limping, watch them closely to determine how severe it is.
Check for visible signs of injury like swelling, or wounds on their legs or paws. They may also be vocal such as whining to show they are in discomfort. If they resist putting weight on the limb or if the limping persists, it’s best to visit the vet. The Kennel Club recommends visiting the vet if the limping continues for more than 2 days and if their behaviour changes such as being lethargic or unwilling to move at all.
In the meantime, help restrict their movement to prevent further injury and keep them comfortable. If you can spot the issue early enough and get treatment, this can prevent the condition from worsening, helping your pet recover more quickly and comfortably.
#3 – Difficulty Breathing
Difficulty breathing, or respiratory distress, is one of the more alarming symptoms your pet may experience. Of course, this would demand immediate vet intervention.
Signs can include rapid breathing, noisy or excessive panting or not breathing at all, and can be triggered by a range of issues, from choking hazards and allergic reactions to heart failure and lung disease. If your pet shows any of these signs, it is crucial to act quickly.
If they are choking on something, you’ll need to gently open their mouth and look for any lodged objects, as per advice from vet Dr Scott Miller, writing for Petsure. If safe to do so, use a pair of tweezers to remove the object, being careful not to push the object further down the throat. If it still can’t be removed or you cannot see anything causing the issue, visit the emergency vet.
It’s best not to wait to see if the symptoms resolve on their own as this can lead to severe consequences, including suffocation. Early and rapid response to such symptoms can significantly improve outcomes and may save your pet’s life.
#4 – Excessive Drooling
Excessive drooling in pets can be a sign of multiple issues, ranging from minor to severe. While some drooling is normal, especially in certain dog breeds, an increase can indicate dental problems, heatstroke, or even poisoning. It is also normal for cats too, but if excessive, then could point to an underlying health issue.
If you notice your pet drooling more than usual, check for other symptoms like a foul odour, swollen gums, or objects lodged in the mouth. In cases where drooling is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy, the PDSA advises to contact your vet immediately. These could be signs of poisoning or serious gastrointestinal issues.
Identifying the underlying cause quickly with the help of a vet is crucial for effective treatment and your pet’s comfort.
#5 – Eating Something They Shouldn’t Have
Pets are naturally curious, so this can sometimes lead them to eat things they shouldn’t. It can even be human error that leads to this, feeding them something that you weren’t aware is highly toxic. If they do, this can be an emergency.
Common foods include chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol (found in sugar-free gums), whilst certain plants can also be toxic like Lillies and horse chestnuts. Also, household items and small toys or clothing items can obstruct their digestive tract if swallowed. If you suspect your pet has eaten something toxic or obstructive, it’s crucial to act fast.
Look for signs of distress such as vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive drooling, or lethargy. If the item is visible in their mouth, remove this if you can. Immediately contact your vet with details of what they ingested and when. Quick and accurate information can significantly influence the effectiveness of the treatment your pet receives.
Get Expert Advice From Your Vet
Hopefully, your pet will avoid experiencing any of the above issues, but knowing you have your vet to help in an emergency should alleviate any worries you may have. Of course, visiting the vet under emergency circumstances can be stressful, even more so if you have to pay out-of-pocket for treatment. It can be expensive and without suitable pet insurance, emergency vet appointments can cost from £200 upwards, so it’s worth ensuring you have a good policy in place just in case the worst happens.
So, do you feel confident you can recognise the signs that your pet needs emergency care? Fortunately, many of the above symptoms can be easy to spot, and as you’ll know your pet better than anyone, you’ll know what to do if something isn’t quite right – call the vet. Always trust your instincts and seek veterinary advice when in doubt.
