As a pet parent, you know your furry friend better than anyone else. You know their quirks, energy levels, and that adorable way they demand attention. But when your pet starts behaving differently or shows signs of discomfort, it can be hard to tell whether it’s something serious or just a passing phase. At Killarney Animal Hospital, we believe early detection is key to keeping your pet happy and healthy. Here’s a detailed guide on common signs of illness and when it’s time to give us a call.
1. Changes in Eating or Drinking Habits
What to Watch For:
- Loss of appetite or refusing food for more than a day.
- Increased thirst, which may indicate diabetes or kidney disease.
- Sudden weight loss or gain.
Why It Matters:
A healthy appetite is a good indicator of your pet’s well-being. If your dog skips a meal or your cat turns their nose up at dinner, it might not seem like a big deal—but it could signal anything from an upset stomach to something more serious, like organ disease.
When to Call Us:
If your pet hasn’t eaten for over 24 hours, drinks excessively, or seems to lose weight rapidly, book an appointment immediately.
2. Unusual Lethargy or Fatigue
What to Watch For:
- Sleeping more than usual.
- Lack of interest in playtime, walks, or other activities they usually enjoy.
- Difficulty standing, walking, or moving around.
Why It Matters:
Lethargy can be caused by something as simple as overexertion, but it could also be a symptom of infections, pain, or underlying medical conditions like heart disease.
When to Call Us:
If your pet’s energy levels drop suddenly or they seem persistently tired for more than a day, let us take a closer look.
3. Vomiting or Diarrhea
What to Watch For:
- Frequent vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than a day.
- Blood in vomit or stool.
- Straining during bowel movements or constipation.
Why It Matters:
Occasional vomiting or diarrhea can happen, but frequent episodes could indicate gastrointestinal issues, poisoning, or infections. Blood in the vomit or stool is always a red flag.
When to Call Us:
Contact us if your pet vomits multiple times in 24 hours, has diarrhea lasting more than a day, or if there’s blood in their stool.
4. Breathing Difficulties
What to Watch For:
- Rapid or shallow breathing.
- Persistent coughing or wheezing.
- Labored breathing or open-mouth breathing (especially in cats).
Why It Matters:
Breathing issues can be caused by allergies, respiratory infections, heart disease, or even heatstroke. Cats are particularly good at hiding respiratory problems, so subtle signs should never be ignored.
When to Call Us:
If your pet seems to struggle with breathing, it’s an emergency—seek veterinary care immediately.
5. Changes in Skin, Coat, or Grooming Habits
What to Watch For:
- Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing at their skin.
- Bald patches, redness, or flaky skin.
- Lumps, bumps, or sores that don’t heal.
Why It Matters:
Skin issues can be caused by allergies, parasites, infections, or even hormonal imbalances. Cats that stop grooming themselves may be in pain or feeling unwell.
When to Call Us:
Bring your pet in if you notice persistent skin problems, unusual lumps, or changes in grooming habits.
6. Frequent Urination or Difficulty Urinating
What to Watch For:
- Straining to urinate.
- Increased frequency of urination or accidents in the house.
- Blood in urine.
Why It Matters:
Urinary issues can signal infections, bladder stones, or, in severe cases, life-threatening conditions like a urinary blockage. Male cats are especially prone to blockages, which require immediate attention.
When to Call Us:
Seek veterinary care if your pet shows any signs of urinary trouble.
7. Behavioral Changes
What to Watch For:
- Sudden aggression, fear, or anxiety.
- Withdrawal from family or hiding in unusual places.
- Increased clinginess or demand for attention.
Why It Matters:
Behavioral changes can indicate pain, stress, or neurological issues. Even subtle shifts in how your pet interacts with you could be their way of saying, “Something’s wrong.”
When to Call Us:
If your pet’s behavior changes significantly or persists for more than a few days, schedule an exam to rule out underlying medical causes.
8. Unexplained Pain or Limping
What to Watch For:
- Limping, stiffness, or reluctance to climb stairs or jump.
- Whining, growling, or snapping when touched in certain areas.
Why It Matters:
Pain isn’t always obvious in pets. Limping could be caused by an injury, arthritis, or even Lyme disease.
When to Call Us:
Don’t wait if your pet shows signs of pain or has trouble moving around. Early intervention can make a big difference.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off with your pet, trust your gut. You know them better than anyone, and no concern is ever too small to check out. At Killarney Animal Hospital, we’re here to provide compassionate, thorough care to help your pet live their happiest, healthiest life.
Need to Schedule an Appointment?
Contact us at 604-433-5500 or visit our website to book a visit. Your pet’s health is our priority!
