As a pet parent, you want the best for your dog or cat. Your furry friend means a lot to you, and you want to ensure that they always stay healthy. Much like infants and small children, your pet can’t tell you with words what may be going on with them. If you want to always be confident that they are doing well, here are some things to keep an eye out for when you wonder if they need a vet visit: 

Itchy fur 

One telltale sign that you and your pet could benefit from a vet visit is that your animal has itchy fur, and they won’t stop scratching it. They may be constantly licking, or you could even see some redness and bald patches on their fur, causing you some concern. When it comes to obviously irritated skin, this isn’t something that you want to leave. 

Instead, make an appointment with your vet to rule out things like fleas or allergies. If your pet has either, they’ll be able to help you find the best course of treatment, whether that is banophen pet allergy tablets or it’s flea treatment. 

Vomiting and diarrhea 

Pets vomit every now and then. While a little vomit or diarrhea may not be cause for concern when it’s just a little, you’ll want to watch for excess diarrhea or vomit that doesn’t stop. Additionally, keeping an eye on how their stomach looks and their overall appetite can give you clues on whether or not it’s time to visit your vet. 

While you don’t want to rush to the vet at the first sign of an upset stomach if it is excessive or your pet looks uncomfortable and lethargic without a desire to eat or drink, head to your pet doctor right away. 

Immobility 

While you might see your pet limp every now and then for attention, if your pet is unable to walk or looks like they’re in serious pain when walking, you definitely want to visit your vet. A lack of mobility can have a broad range of causes, varying from injury to neurological problems to cancer and more. 

Take time to observe your pet before you rush to the vet, as they may be just fine and are simply seeking your sympathy. But don’t observe for too long. Some situations require immediate treatment, so when in doubt, call your vet and get their input. 

Lethargy

Pet parents who have a lively pet will know immediately if something is wrong when their animal is lethargic. However, those with senior pets who already move slow and aren’t as hyper when they were younger may not recognize lethargic behavior at first sight. Just as we may slow down when we feel unwell, so will your pet when something doesn’t feel right. 

You could let it go for a day and see if they’re simply feeling tired but if it seems exaggerated for the kind of personality they have, don’t wait. They could have something serious going on and you’ll want to get them seen as soon as possible. 

Breathing, swelling, or bumping into things

There are other signs that would be more obvious and a clear emergency. These kinds of things like disrupted breathing, swelling in the face or abdomen, or bumping into things can all be clear signals that you need to get to the vet as soon as possible. While the other signs on this list may often be a wait-and-see scenario, behavior or symptoms like these that give you serious cause for concern should be paid attention to immediately. 

In Conclusion 

If you want to be confident that your pet is okay, take time to learn the ways that their behavior and body may be telling you they are unwell. Sometimes, they may simply be sick for a moment and it will pass, while at other times, you’ll want to go to the vet as soon as you can.