When do you rush your pet to the emergency vet? Health complications are inevitable. However, some busy pet owners tend to obtain help from an online vet advice. It helps them save time and money. Whilst some are minor conditions that can be fixed by home remedies, others need an immediate professional diagnosis. In fact, there are many situations where an emergency vet must be called. When can it be considered an emergency? Before hitting the number, be prepared and expect extra charges for their service. This is one of the reasons for the increasing number of consumers with pet insurance in the UK.
Types of emergencies
In case of emergencies, it is best to remain calm and prepare the necessary pieces of information when you make your call. Do not forget to include the following:
- Type of pet (cat, dog, and others)
- Pet Breed
- Sex
- Age
- Weight
- Symptoms observed
It is crucial to provide a detailed description of the symptoms that were observed.
There are three types of emergencies. The following will give you an idea of how to regard any conditions that you may encounter:
- Minor emergencies
To regard the condition as ‘minor’ means attention can be accommodated over the phone or a vet visit on an agreed date. - Emergencies that require immediate actions
These cases usually require surgery but something that is not regarded as life-threatening. - Life-threatening emergencies
Life-threatening emergencies require immediate actions and if possible, directions can be instructed by one of the veterinary staff over the phone.
There are certain cases where your pet companion will need an emergency vet as soon as possible. Make sure to report accurate signs to the vet.
Accidents
Accidents refer to cases where your pet has been hit by a car or other serious blows. They may appear generally fine at first sight due to the activated adrenalin and fear from the event. Apart from the obvious bleeding and wounds, there are bone fractures and internal bleeding that you need to worry as these cannot be visibly observed. As such, accidents are worth the visit of a vet.
Severe bleeding
Any severe bleeding that persists for more than five minutes should be taken seriously. Pay attention to any loss of blood from any orifice (mouth, nose or anus). Beware of internal bleeding which can be even more dangerous. Signs of internal bleeding include:
- Fast heartbeat
- Restless and listless
- Shallow breathing
- Paled gums
- Blood loss from any orifices
- Blood in urine in dark concentrated colours
Any eye problems or injuries
Any health complication involving the eye is a critical condition that may quickly worsen leading to partial or full blindness. Watch out for the following signs:
- Eyes that appear bloodshot or very red
- Eye discharges
- Extreme eye squinting
- Noticeable times of pawing and rubbing of the eye
- Swelling
Eye conditions can be progressive. As such, it is best to have your pet undergo therapy or other treatment. Conditions can be any of these:
- Acute vision of loss
- Eye bleeding
- Inflammation of the optic nerve
- Glaucoma
- Lens dislocation
- Traumatic proptosis
Blood discharge or difficulty in the ability to urinate or release faeces
Whether it is a bloody discharge from a cat’s stool, dog stool, dog urine or from any other pets, it can be a serious sign of urinary infection. Treatment may involve antibiotics but any forms of blockages can end in a critical condition that may require surgery.
Difficulty in breathing
Breathing difficulties accompanied by coughing, choking or gagging can be caused by various reasons. It can be a result of allergic reactions, heart complications, lung disease, and poisoning and foreign material intake.
Food poison ingestion
Our pets are inquisitive and curious creatures which make them susceptible to danger even at the comfort of our homes. It is very important to strictly monitor your furry pet every now and then.
Toxic food items include:
- Alcohol
- Avocados
- Caffeine
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
Read our previous articles Never Feed These 9 Poisonous Food for Cats and 12 Poison Food for Dogs You Should Hide from Your Pet for further discussion.
Household products that pose a threat to your pet include:
- Antifreeze
- Batteries
- Human painkillers
- Rat poisons
Poisonous plants include:
- Lily
- Cherry laurel
- Daffodil
- Yew
Seizures
Seizures can be caused by various health conditions including epilepsy, poisoning, hypoglycaemia, and others. Seizures may manifest with these signs:
- Uncontrollable shaking
- Kicking legs
- Uncontrolled release of urine and bowels
- Drooling
- Unconsciousness
Collapse or unconsciousness
An unconscious pet should be given immediate medical attention. An act of collapsing and trouble in waking him up can also be deemed as a life-threatening condition. This condition may have been caused by heatstroke, heart and lung problems, poisonous intake, and other neurological disorders.
Severe vomiting and diarrhoea
When are vomiting and diarrhoea severe and not? These are common pet problems that can be treated with home remedies. However, if the condition persists for more than 24 hours with other manifestations, it should be given veterinary attention.
Low water intake
Water is just as important to dogs as it is to humans. The weather may also be a factor in the frequency of your pet’s water intake. However, if the refusal to drink lasts for more than 24 hours, that is another issue to be discussed with your vet.
So, is there a need for you to put him into emergency vet care? You know your pet best. If you noticed any signs of pain and discomfort or something amiss in his character, call your veterinarian for advice. Do not hesitate to seek help.
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