5 Ways To Detect A Pet Health Emergency

Pets are very good at hiding when they are sick or feeling unwell in their bodies. They also do not have a way to communicate that they are in trouble. Because of this, as an owner, you must keep observing your pet for signs that they are in trouble or okay. 

One of the main reasons it is essential as a pet owner to keep an eye on your pet is emergencies. If your pet is experiencing a condition that needs immediate medical attention, you need to know quickly. 

Read on to learn about the various signs you can look for to know if your pet is experiencing a medical emergency.

Continuous Vomiting or Diarrhea

Dogs and cats can vomit quite often, and it may not be a medical emergency. Some vets make fun of this phenomenon, saying, “Cats vomit for sport!” But if you notice some of the following when your pet vomits, it may mean they need emergency health care:

• Vomit resembling coffee grounds
   

• Blood in the vomit or stool
   

• Continuous vomiting and diarrhea

All these may be a sign that your pet has eaten something toxic to them, a disease, or dysfunctional organs. If any of these signs last a whole day, it is a health emergency. If a pet presents two symptoms, they need to see a vet immediately.

Difficult or Labored Breathing

If you notice your pet struggling to breathe, you should take them to the clinic as soon as possible. The problem may occur due to respiratory conditions, blocked airways, or another health issue. 

The main signs of difficulty breathing are wheezing or panting, especially when they have not been exercising. You can tell rapid shallow breaths by looking at the sides of your pet. When you take your pet to the vet, they may not have a pulse. The staff usually performs CPR and transfers the pet to the closest animal hospital.

Limping or Swollen Limbs

Swollen limbs or limping can indicate Lyme disease, muscle trauma, or a broken bone. Hives or overall swelling can be an indication of an allergic reaction. If you suspect an allergic reaction, you must take them to the vet before they get anaphylactic shock. If you notice your pet avoids putting any weight on a specific limb, that is a health emergency.

Acute Injury

If your pet has an acute injury, it will need immediate health care. A car may have hit it, it may have an open wound, have been bitten by another animal, or have excessive bleeding. You must check if your pet fights with another animal for serious injuries. Deep injuries may be hard to find, especially if your pet has a thick coat. Also, pets are very good at hiding their pain.

Reaction to Sting or a Bite

Check the bite site carefully when a bee, spider, or snake bites or stings your pet. It may have some pain and swelling in the area, which is normal. But if you notice that other parts of their body are swelling, it is a health emergency. Take them to the animal hospital or the vet as quickly as possible.

For more signs that your pet may be experiencing a health emergency, call Liberty Animal Clinic at (912) 368-4080 our office in Hinesville, Georgia.