Pets are our faithful companions, and as pet owners, it is our responsibility to oversee their health and happiness. However, our furry friends cannot tell us when they are sick. That’s why it’s important to know the common signs of illness in pets so you can take the proper action. Here are some common symptoms of a sick cat or dog and what to do if your pet is sick.

Signs of a Sick Cat or Dog

As a pet owner, it is essential to be aware of your pet’s usual behavior and habits. Any sudden change in their behavior, appetite, or energy levels could be a warning sign of a health problem. The most common signs of illness in pets include loss of appetite, weight loss, and lethargy. If your pet drinks excessive amounts of water, it could be a sign of kidney disease or diabetes mellitus. Other signs to watch out for include changes in urination or stool, intermittent vomiting, bad breath, hair loss, foul odor, or a change in your pet’s coat.

If your furry friend is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary care. Warning signs that require urgent medical attention include difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, trouble walking, trauma, anorexia, or obvious signs of illness.

What To Do If Your Pet Is Sick

If you notice any signs of illness in your pet, the best way to care for them is to take them to a veterinarian. Your vet will conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause of your pet’s symptoms. When you take your pet to a vet sick visit, your vet will perform a thorough examination to assess your pet’s health condition. This examination will include checking your pet’s body temperature, weight, and overall condition. Your vet will also examine your pet’s ears, eyes, nose, mouth, and teeth, looking for any signs of disease or infection.  The heart is auscultated to evaluate for changes.

As pets cannot talk to tell us what is wrong, your vet will recommend tests like blood work or X-rays to identify, rule out, or confirm any underlying medical issues. Once the diagnosis is complete, your vet will recommend a treatment plan to help your furry friend recover.

Preventive care is also crucial in keeping your pet healthy. Regular checkups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention can prevent tick-borne diseases, intestinal parasites, and other health issues. The importance of baseline blood work annually cannot be stressed enough as your vet can compare or track changes to catch disease processes early when it is less costly and has a better outcome with earlier intervention.