10 Signs Your Pet Should See a Veterinarian
At Wag Veterinary in Charlottesville, Virginia, we understand how much your pets mean to you. They are family members, loyal companions, and a source of unconditional love. But sometimes, it’s hard to know when your furry friend might need professional medical attention. To help, we’ve outlined 10 signs that indicate your pet should see a veterinarian as soon as possible. By being proactive, you can ensure your pet’s health and happiness for years.
1. Changes in Eating or Drinking Habits
If your pet suddenly refuses to eat or drink or seems excessively thirsty, this could signal an underlying issue, such as kidney disease, diabetes, or dental problems. Pay attention to changes in appetite or water consumption, and consult your veterinarian if the issue persists for more than a day.
2. Lethargy or Unusual Fatigue
While pets may have an off day now and then, prolonged lethargy or lack of energy is often a sign of illness. Conditions like anemia, tick borne infection, toxin ingestion or heart disease can cause your pet to feel unusually tired. If your dog or cat seems more sluggish than usual, it’s time to schedule a check-up.
3. Persistent Vomiting or Diarrhea
Occasional vomiting or diarrhea can result from minor dietary indiscretions. However, persistent episodes can indicate serious problems such as gastrointestinal blockages, GI infections, or systemic disease like hyperthyroidism. Seek veterinary care promptly to ensure your pet is not getting dehydrated or malnourished and resolve the underlying illness.
4. Difficulty Breathing
Labored breathing, wheezing, or coughing requires immediate attention. Respiratory distress may indicate an allergic reaction or advanced heart or lung disease. In these cases, time is of the essence.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain
Sudden weight changes are often a red flag. Weight loss might indicate hyperthyroidism, cancer, diabetes or gastrointestinal issues, while weight gain could point to hypothyroidism or metabolic disorders. A veterinarian can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
6. Skin Issues or Hair Loss
If your pet is excessively scratching, licking, or developing bald patches, they could have allergies, skin infections, or parasites like fleas and mites. Skin issues can also be a symptom of underlying health concerns like hypothyroidism. Don’t ignore these signs—a veterinarian can help identify the root cause and provide relief.
7. Limping or Difficulty Moving
Limping, stiffness, or difficulty jumping into the car or climbing stairs could be due to injuries, arthritis, or other joint-related issues including cruciate ligament tears. Mobility issues are prevalent in older pets but can also occur in younger animals. Intervention can improve mobility and alleviate discomfort.
8. Changes in Bathroom Habits
If your pet is straining to urinate or defecate, having accidents indoors, or showing other unusual bathroom behaviors, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. These changes could signal urinary tract infections, urinary bladder stones, intestinal bacterial infection, intestinal parasites, constipation and other medical conditions.
9. Behavioral Changes
If your pet becomes aggressive, anxious, or unusually clingy, it could be their way of expressing discomfort or pain. Behavioral changes can be related to physical or emotional health issues, and a veterinarian can help determine what’s causing the shift in their behavior.
10. Visible Signs of Pain or Discomfort
Pets can’t tell us when they’re in pain, but they often show it in subtle ways. Whining, excessive grooming, avoiding touch, decreased activity, unwillingness to climb stairs or jump in the car or changes in posture are all indicators that something might be wrong. If you suspect your pet is in pain, don’t wait to seek veterinary care.
FAQs About Veterinary Care at Wag Veterinary
1. How do I know if my pet’s symptoms are severe?
While some symptoms can resolve on their own, persistent or severe symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or signs of pain should never be ignored. When in doubt, call us at 434-235-5015, and we’ll guide you on the next steps.
2. Do I need to make an appointment, or can I walk in?
We recommend scheduling an appointment for the best care and minimal wait times. Scheduled appointments enable us to give your pet sufficient time to provide the dedicated attention it deserves. We accept drop-off appointments and can often accommodate urgent cases. Call ahead to check availability.
3. What should I bring to my pet’s appointment?
Please bring any medical records, a list of symptoms you’ve observed, and details about your pet’s diet and habits. If your pet is on medication, bring that as well.
4. How often should my pet have a routine check-up?
We recommend annual wellness exams for most pets, but seniors or those with chronic conditions may need more frequent visits. Preventive care is key to catching health issues early.
At Wag Veterinary, serving Charlottesville, Ivy, and Crozet, our compassionate team is here to keep your pets healthy and happy. If your pet exhibits any of the abovementioned signs, please contact us. We’re here to provide your beloved companions with the highest level of care.
