Taking care of your cherished pet involves many facets, from nutrition and exercise to annual exams with our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team. However, no matter how diligent you are about caring for your pet’s health, illnesses, injuries, and medical emergencies may occur. By being able to recognize health issues’ early signs, you can help prevent your furry pal from developing complications. You should never ignore these 10 health signs in your pet so you can expediently get them the veterinary care they need. 

1. Your pet has a sudden appetite change

A drastic change in your furry pal’s eating habits can signal various health problems, including dental, digestive, or systemic illnesses. Pets typically eat their normal daily portions, but if they refuse their food for more than 24 hours, they should be examined by our veterinarian. Prolonged anorexia can lead to severe complications, including malnutrition and eventual starvation. On the other hand, overeating can also indicate health concerns, metabolic disorders, and parasites. 

2. Your pet has unexplained weight loss or gain

Similar to an appetite change, a sudden weight loss can indicate an underlying condition such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or cancer. Conversely, rapid weight gain could signal hypothyroidism or other metabolic disorders. You should monitor your furry friend’s weight and body condition score on an ongoing basis to recognize and address weight changes promptly.

3. Your pet is persistently vomiting or has diarrhea

Like people, pets have the occasional upset tummy, often because they’ve eaten too quickly or ingested something they shouldn’t have. Occasional vomiting might not be cause for concern, but frequent or severe vomiting can indicate gastrointestinal (GI) issues, infections, or ingestions of a toxin. Persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration or signal an infection, dietary problem, or other health condition. If your pet is persistently vomiting or has blood in their vomit or stool, they need immediate veterinary attention. 

4. Your pet has breathing difficulties

Difficulty breathing, coughing, or wheezing should be taken seriously. These respiratory signs could indicate that your pet has an infection, heart disease, choking, or another severe condition. While panting is normal after exercise or in hot weather, excessive panting without an obvious cause can be a heatstroke, pain, or respiratory issue sign.

5. Your pet is urinating more frequently or straining to urinate

Increased urinary frequency can indicate that your pet has a urinary tract infection (UTI), kidney disease, or diabetes. If your pet is straining to urinate or is in pain while urinating, they may have a urinary tract blockage, infection, or bladder stone. Always seek our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team’s guidance if your furry friend shows these signs. 

6. Your pet is lethargic or weak

If your pet is unusually tired or less active, various health issues, including an infection, a metabolic disorder, pain, or a chronic disease, could be the cause. Disinterest in exercise and play signals that something is off with your four-legged friend. Along with lethargy, some pets, including cats, will hide more than usual. Sudden weakness or collapse is a serious issue that requires immediate veterinary attention.

7. Your pet has skin or coat changes

Persistent itching, scratching, or biting can signal that your pet has allergies, parasites, or skin infections. Unexplained hair loss or bald patches can indicate skin conditions, hormonal imbalances, or stress. Our veterinarian should examine lumps, bumps, or swellings to rule out infections, cysts, or tumors. An unkempt coat or inadequate self-grooming—most often in cats—is another red flag that our team should evaluate. 

8. Your pet’s behavior has changed

Sudden changes in behavior, such as increased aggression or fear, can be a pain, neurologic issue, or other health problem sign. Confusion, disorientation, or changes in how your pet interacts with their environment may indicate that they have a neurologic disorder or cognitive decline. Any changes in your pet’s demeanor or behavior are cause for concern. 

9. Your pet has unusually foul breath

While pets don’t always have minty-fresh breath, a foul odor can be a sign that your furry pal has dental disease, a GI problem, or systemic illness such as kidney disease. If your pet has halitosis, schedule an appointment with our veterinarian team. 

10. Your pet seems to be in pain

Limping, reluctance to move, or vocalizing, including howling or persistent meowing, are pain signs that should be addressed. Pain can result from an injury, arthritis, or other medical condition. If your four-legged friend seems to be in pain, promptly call our team. Being vigilant about your pet’s health and learning to recognize the early illness signs we have discussed here can make a significant difference in their overall well-being. Early detection and prompt veterinary care can manage health issues and help ensure that your furry friend has a long, happy life. Contact our Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team if you notice any concerning changes in your pet’s health or behavior.