When to Seek Urgent Care for Your Pet: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

As a pet owner, it’s important to monitor your furry friend's health and know when to seek urgent veterinary care. Our vets at Lincoln Animal Hospital in Cypress, CA, want to educate you on recognizing symptoms when your pet needs immediate attention.

Difficulty Breathing

If your pet is struggling for air, gasping, or unable to catch their breath, it may be important to get emergency care right away. Labored breathing or respiratory distress signals your pet isn't getting enough oxygen. Call a vet near you in Cypress, CA, or head straight to the local animal hospital for evaluation and treatment. Difficulty breathing can progress quickly, so don't wait to get help.

Severe Vomiting or Diarrhea

A few episodes of vomiting or diarrhea may not be cause for alarm. If vomiting is persistent and forceful or diarrhea is frequent, however, seek the care of your veterinarian. Dehydration from fluid loss is the main risk, especially in smaller pets like cats. You don't want your pet becoming lethargic, only to later find they are severely dehydrated. Check with your vet for guidance.

Seizures

Witnessing your pet have a seizure is frightening. While occasional seizures may not require urgent care, multiple seizures in a short timeframe do. Take note of the length and severity of the seizure. Call a vet to determine next steps, which may include examinations and stabilizing medication.

Injuries

Cuts, limping, trauma from a fall or accident may all warrant prompt veterinary attention. While some wounds can be superficial, you might risk infection or further injury by waiting. Your vet can best assess if wounds need suturing or if limbs could be broken.

Poisoning

If you notice your pet ingested something toxic like chocolate, raisins, antifreeze, or human medication, call your vet. Time is of the essence! Do not induce vomiting until a vet instructs you to do so. With quick action, the veterinarian can try to flush toxins from the body or administer interventions to counteract poisoning.

Get Urgent Care and Veterinarian Services from a Vet Near You at Our Animal Hospital

Trust your instincts as a pet owner. You know your furry companion best. If their symptoms concern you and persist or worsen, seek professional veterinary care right away. The doctors at Lincoln Animal Hospital in Cypress, CA, are available to triage symptoms and advise if urgent care is recommended. Call us at (714) 995-9200 for urgent care and veterinarian services from a vet near you at our animal hospital for vomiting and difficulty breathing.