Your Pet’s Health . . .
Should You Wait For A Check-Up
Or Call An Emergency Animal Clinic?
Pets are family, there’s no denying that. But because they aren’t actually “people” per say, medical care can be tricky. Here’s how to know you can probably wait for an opening at your regular vet and when your beloved pet needs the animal ER.
A Change In Eating Habits
Your dog or cat should exhibit consistency in their eating patterns, even if they tend to be finicky. Should your pet suddenly be turned off at the sight of food, keep a close eye on him. If a normal appetite doesn’t resume within a day or so, an investigation into the cause(s) should ensue.
Extreme Thirst
While dogs normally slop around a few times a day in the water bowl, becoming obsessed with drinking could be a sign of diabetes. Cats, too, who hover over their water dish for long periods may also be trying to tell you something.
High blood sugar levels cause internal distress as well as excessive thirst; diabetes is a dangerous disease capable of striking in both canines and felines. If this situation presents itself, ask your vet for an immediate appointment. In the even your animal can’t be seen right away, consider a trip to the local emergency animal clinic, as diabetes left untreated is extremely precarious.
A Dramatic Difference In Coat Texture Or Appearance
Just like people might experience hair problems when ill, so too will an animal. If your fuzzy friend has lost the luster in his coat or if his skin has become dry or flaky, something might be going on. Make sure you’re using a good, high-quality shampoo for bathing and that you brush the coat when needed. If the problem(s) persist, schedule a check-up.
Odd Excrements
You probably don’t normally follow your pet around examining his poop, but excrements can actually be a solid indicator of health. If you suspect your dog or cat isn’t feeling well, have a look at their feces. If it’s awfully runny, an abnormal color or it’s happening much more frequently than normal, contact your vet.
If you ever see anything dramatic, such as blood or foreign objects, take him to an emergency animal clinic right away. Animals sometimes ingest dangerous items and if that’s the case, immediate medical attention could save his life.
Unable To Hold Food Down
Dogs and cats are known to vomit due to having consumed something strange, such as grass or the feces of another animal. If your four-legged buddy isn’t able to hold anything down for a number of meals, however, this is likely cause for concern. Try feeding smaller amounts of food frequently, limiting the activity of the animal.
Unless the symptoms improve, have him seen by a professional.
Changes In Mood And/Or Behavior
You know your pet better than anyone and if he hasn’t been himself lately, something may be amiss. While a change in mood can be perplexing, it doesn’t always necessitate a trip to the emergency animal clinic.
Observe your pet closely over a period of two or three days and see if the behavior doesn’t go away. If he still seems blue or moody, and particularly if he’s become a grouch, consider putting a call in to your vet.
Always trust your own instincts when it comes to your pet’s health and remember that it’s okay to err on the side of caution. Your good decisions will keep him healthier and happier for many years to come.