Some emergencies are obvious but some serious conditions that could be life-threatening to your pet may not. You know when your pet is not feeling well and you should always assess whether or not they may need immediate help. If your pet has any of the following conditions, you should take them to see a veterinarian right away.
Bleeding
Bleeding from any part of the body; excessive blood in the urine or stool.
Vomiting/Diarrhea
Many repeated episodes in a short period, or intermittently over a period of days or weeks.
Convulsions/Fainting
Violent shaking of the head or body with uncontrolled spasms; loss of consciousness.
Lethargy
Lack of normal tolerance for exercise; reduced energy or playfulness.
Pain
Limping or favoring a leg; crying or showing signs of pain when touched.
Appetite Changes
Refusing food or water; eating more or less than usual.
Breathing Problems
Shortness of breath, extending head and neck to breathe; wheezing.
Weight Loss
Dramatic unexplained loss in body weight, or gradual weight loss over weeks or months.
Eye Problems
Redness, discharge, squinting, cloudiness of the eye; a foreign object in the eye, or difficulty seeing.
Urination Changes
Urinating larger amounts, urinating frequently, urinating only small drops, or difficulty urinating at all.
Abnormal Gum Color
Gums should be pink; gums that are dark red, white, pale or blue can be a sign of an emergency.