In a purr-fect world, your pet could tell you when they are sick. In addition to being unable to speak, pets are particularly good at masking their pain, just as animals in the wild must hide their injuries to avoid predation. Knowing how subtle your furry pal’s health signs can be, you need to learn how to recognize these changes to your pet’s physical and emotional health. Our Tamberly Animal Hospital team explains pet illness signs that warrant veterinary attention.

Your pet has persistent vomiting or diarrhea 

Occasionally, your four-legged friend can develop gastrointestinal (GI) upset because of food sensitivities or eating something questionable, but persistent vomiting or diarrhea can signal a serious underlying issue. Infection, poisoning, GI disease, and organ dysfunction can cause your pet to vomit or have diarrhea. If your pet cannot keep food or water down or if diarrhea persists for longer than 24 hours, seek veterinary care to identify the cause and treat health impacts such as dehydration. 

Your pet has breathing difficulties

Pets’ respiratory distress signs, such as rapid or labored breathing, coughing, or wheezing, require veterinary attention. Respiratory problems can indicate infections, allergies, heart disease, or a foreign object obstruction in their airways. Prompt veterinary evaluation is essential to address the underlying cause and ensure your pet receives appropriate treatment to breathe easily.

Your pet is unusually lethargic or weak

Your pet may love their naps, but they likely have a health condition if they are consistently disinterested in play, exercise, or are reluctant to move. A sudden lack of energy or reluctance to move can indicate a serious health issue, including infection, organ dysfunction, pain, or systemic illness. Seek veterinary attention promptly by calling our Tamberly Animal Hospital team if your pet is unusually lethargic or unable to walk, especially if these signs are accompanied by other conditions such as fever or appetite loss. 

Your pet has lost their appetite and is refusing food

Changes to your four-legged friend’s eating habits can be related to various health issues. Sometimes, pets get bored with their food or have an off day, but ongoing inappetence can be linked to dental problems, GI issues, metabolic disorders, and organ dysfunction. If your pet doesn’t eat for more than 24 hours, consult with our veterinarian to rule out a serious underlying medical condition.

Your pet acts as if they are in pain

You may not realize your pet is in pain because their signs may be subtle, often manifesting as behavior changes. Your pet may exhibit pain or distress signs through vocalization, restlessness, aggression, or posture or behavior changes. Whether your pet’s pain signs are related to injury, trauma, or internal discomfort, you should never ignore them. Prompt veterinary care can help alleviate your pet’s suffering and address their underlying pain cause.

Your pet is limping

Limping or favoring a limb may indicate your pet has a musculoskeletal injury, joint problem, or underlying condition such as arthritis or bone cancer. While minor limping may resolve with rest, persistent or worsening lameness requires a veterinary evaluation to determine the issue’s extent and prescribe appropriate treatment options.

Your pet had a seizure

If your pet has not been diagnosed with a seizure condition, a seizure episode can be understandably alarming. Seizures and consciousness loss may occur if your pet has a neurologic condition, has been exposed to a toxin, or has a metabolic abnormality. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary to assess a seizure’s cause, provide supportive care, and prevent further episodes.

Many health conditions in pets can come on suddenly, with little warning. Being attentive to changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite, and physical condition is crucial for early health issue detection. While some illness signs may be mild or transient, others may indicate serious medical problems that require prompt veterinary attention. By learning to recognize when your pet is exhibiting serious illness signs and then acting swiftly, you can help ensure their well-being and longevity. Always consult our Tamberly Animal Hospital team if you have concerns about your pet’s health or behavior.