Pets are quick to show their love, but they may not be as fast to show signs of distress or pain. As your pet’s main source of care and attention, it’s essential to recognize the signs of potential health emergencies–even if your pet is doing their best to hide it. If your pet is dealing with a health crisis, fast intervention can make a world of difference in their recovery and wellbeing. Here are some of the most common pet health emergencies you may face.
Common Pet Health Emergencies
- Bleeding: Unstoppable bleeding or bleeding that’s especially intense means you should take immediate action. If it doesn’t taper off within a few minutes, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian.
- Respiratory Issues: Persistent symptoms like non-stop coughing, bouts of gagging, or choking are definitely red flags. Any difficulty in breathing should never be taken lightly–it’s a sign that something is obstructing your pet’s airflow.
- Unexplained Bleeding: Discovering blood in places you wouldn’t expect, such as the nose, mouth, or even in urine, is a clear indicator that it’s time to seek veterinary help.
- Exposure to Toxins: Our pets can sometimes be overly curious. If there’s a possibility they’ve ingested or come in contact with harmful substances or items, they need immediate medical attention. This goes for common substances that are toxic to pets like chocolate, rat poison, insecticides, and many cleaning products.
- Bone Injuries: Even if you didn’t witness your pet breaking a bone, if they’re struggling to walk or seem unable to move a certain body part, they should get evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Contact Your Veterinarian Today
When it comes to the health and wellbeing of our pets, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Even if you’re just slightly worried about any aspect of your pet’s health, making that call to your veterinarian is always the right choice.