Our pets cannot tell us when they are sick or injured, and because their health and wellness are our responsibility, we must learn to decipher subtle cues that something is amiss and determine the care level they require. This is not an easy task, and while only certain issues require emergency care, failing to provide timely intervention at times can have a tragic outcome. So, how do you know whether you can care for your pet at home or if they need immediate professional medical attention? Our Stanton Pet Hospital team describes five signs that mean your pet needs emergency veterinary treatment.

#1: Your pet is struggling to breathe

Breathing is fundamental to life, and any interruption or difficulty in the process requires immediate veterinary care. Without adequate oxygen, cells can become damaged, and vital organs, such as the brain and heart, can start to fail, leading to life-threatening conditions or death. Myriad conditions, such as foreign body obstructions, allergic reactions, heart failure, lung diseases, trauma, or infections, can cause breathing difficulties. These conditions can progress rapidly, making immediate veterinary care imperative. An immediate veterinary assessment helps ensure timely interventions, potentially saving your pet’s life and preventing irreversible damage. Pets’ breathing difficulty signs include:

  • Breathing more quickly than usual when at rest
  • Taking short, shallow breaths rather than deep, regular ones
  • Struggling to breathe, exhibiting exaggerated chest and abdomen movement
  • Panting excessively without obvious reasons such as a hot temperature or exertion
  • Wheezing, raspy, or high-pitched sounds when inhaling or exhaling
  • Stretching out the neck and head upward or forward in an attempt to open the airway
  • Breathing with an open mouth, especially cats, who typically breathe through their noses

#2: Your pet has ingested a toxin

Nothing is scarier than coming home to see your pet surrounded by evidence that they have eaten something potentially toxic. You immediately berate your carelessness before jumping to the worst-case scenario. To help ensure you secure and keep potentially harmful items out of your pet’s reach, pet-proofing is essential. However, accidents happen, and the best thing you can do in a scenario such as this is to breathe, stay calm, and act quickly. Many foods, cleaning products, plants, medications, and other items can be harmful to dogs and cats, but the toxicity may depend on factors such as your pet’s size and the toxin amount they ingested. Learn about common pet toxins, and if you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, contact our Stanton Pet Hospital team, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Animal Poison Control Center, or the Pet Poison Helpline. 

#3: Your pet has a seizure 

Witnessing your pet experience a seizure is terrifying, and you may be unsure how to help. Whether your pet has been diagnosed with epilepsy, or this is their first seizure, these episodes are concerning, especially if they occur frequently. Seizures may be caused by conditions in or that affect the brain (e.g., tumor, head trauma), as well as diseases or injury to the kidneys or liver, including organ failure, toxin ingestion, trauma, and shock. Seizures can range from a slight twitch to uncontrollable shaking, with most lasting less than a minute to several minutes. During a seizure, your pet may display these signs:

  • Jerky movements
  • Drooling
  • Eye rolling 
  • Chomping or chewing motions
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Urinating or defecating
  • Vomiting

As much as you may want to lovingly hold your pet, do not try to stroke or restrain them during a seizure. Seizures can cause unusual movements and behavior, and a startled pet can unintentionally injure themselves or you. Attempt to video the episode, noting its length. This information can help our Stanton Pet Hospital team diagnose your pet and provide appropriate treatment. Once the seizure is over, contact us regarding what to do next.

#4: Your pet is bleeding excessively 

A minor scrape isn’t cause for concern, but if your pet has a wound that fails to clot and continues to bleed after you apply a bandage, they are experiencing a veterinary emergency. A pet who does not have enough blood circulating through their body can experience shock and die. If your pet sustains a serious wound, stop the bleeding by applying firm pressure for three minutes with a clean bandage. If the wound continues to bleed, get your pet immediate veterinary treatment.

#5: Your pet has an eye injury

Eye injuries cause pets a lot of pain and can quickly escalate if left untreated. The eye is a delicate and vital organ, with intricate structures that are susceptible to damage from trauma, foreign bodies, or infections. Seemingly minor injuries can compromise the eye’s integrity, leading to vision impairment or loss. If your pet is squinting, or pawing at their eye, has an ocular discharge or a red irritation, they need emergency veterinary care.

These veterinary emergency conditions are not exhaustive, and you should always err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure whether your pet requires immediate care, don’t hesitate to contact our Stanton Pet Hospital team for triage support and guidance.