7 Warning Signs Your Pet Needs to See the Vet

All dogs and cats have accidents and make messes sometimes, right? To an extent, that is true. Like people, pets can get an upset stomach without any warning and be fine a few minutes after being sick.

So what issues demand a trip to the vet? Here are seven signs you should never ignore.

#1 Blood in Vomit, Urine, or Stool

Blood is a sign that it is probably time for a trip to the vet. Some minor scrapes can be effectively treated at home. Blood in your pet's waste or vomiting with blood, however, should sound the alarm. It could mean urinary tract infections, parasites, or other time-sensitive problems.

#2 Constipation

Cats should use the litter box once or twice a day. If they are not, they may have a hairball blocking their digestive tract. Dogs usually have to go when they wake up and after they eat. For dogs with digestive problems, you can try feeding them Taste of the Wild dog food. For cats, try the Wellness cat food.

#3 Potty Messes

Cats who suddenly start making messes outside the litter box could have kidney disease, a urinary tract infection, or bladder stones. Dogs who become incontinent might be senior dogs going through this rather normal aging process, but it can also be a sign of kidney disease.

#4 Losing or Gaining Lots of Weight

Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause dangerous weight fluctuations in cats and dogs. Hypothyroidism is more common in dogs, while hyperthyroidism is more common in cats.

Pet food can cause both loss and gain of weight. If your dog is losing or gaining excess weight, you need to change its dog food. Similar changes need to be made in your cat food if your cat is losing or gaining weight. Dry cat food or dry dog food is always the vet’s first choice when it comes to losing weight. 

#5 Cloudy, Weepy, or Irritated Eyes

Dogs can be prone to cataracts, which can cause vision loss and glaucoma. They are more likely to be senior dogs. A cat or a dog with any sort of residue, discharge, redness, or swelling of the eyes could have an eye infection. It could vary in seriousness but will likely need your vet's help.

#6 Behavioral Changes

Cats who suddenly start hiding or stop seeking attention could feel sick for many reasons. Dogs who become more anxious or agitated could develop OCD.

#7 Itching and Scratching

All pets scratch an itch now and then. However, if your pet is frequently scratching, it could be a sign of fleas. 

Fleas can cause skin rashes and carry diseases. Talk to your vet about flea prevention and get rid of those insects.

To prevent fleas in cats, you can get a flea collar for cats. There are also flea collars for dogs. If already infested, you have to opt for flea medication for cats. If you have a dog, keep in mind that cat flea medication will not work on dogs. So, you have to use specific flea medications for dogs.

Read more about the warning signs a cat is sick and symptoms in dogs you shouldn't ignore.

Tip: If you are not sure you want to head to the vet over a hairball or some other seemingly small issue, you should at least give your vet a call. Most veterinarians will be available by phone, or you may be able to leave a message or talk to a vet tech at the office who will have your answer.