31 July 2025

Emergency Signs in Dogs and Cats

Even healthy-looking pets can suffer from internal health issues that go unnoticed until they become serious. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to recognize common illnesses in dogs and cats — and know the warning signs that need urgent veterinary care.

🐾 Common Illnesses in Dogs and Cats

1. Vomiting and Diarrhea

These are some of the most frequent signs of illness in both cats and dogs. While it might be due to something minor like a change in food, it could also indicate:

Parasites
Infections
Pancreatitis
Food allergies
Toxin ingestion

If vomiting or diarrhea continues for more than 24 hours or is accompanied by blood, weakness, or refusal to eat — see a vet immediately.

2. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Cats, especially males, are prone to urinary issues, which can become life-threatening if untreated. Signs include:

Straining to urinate
Blood in urine
Frequent trips to the litter box or bathroom spot
Crying while urinating

Dogs can also develop UTIs, especially older females. These require antibiotics and possibly diet changes.

3. Skin Allergies and Infections

Excessive scratching, redness, hair loss, or skin bumps can be signs of:

Fleas or ticks
Food allergies
Bacterial or fungal infections

Early treatment can prevent painful skin damage or infections from spreading.

4. Dental Disease

Bad breath, drooling, difficulty chewing, and gum swelling can point to dental problems. Left untreated, they can lead to infections in the heart and kidneys.

5. Ear Infections

More common in dogs with floppy ears (like Cocker Spaniels), signs include:

Head shaking
Foul-smelling discharge
Redness inside the ear

These should be treated with medicated drops prescribed by a vet.

🚨 Emergency Signs You Should Never Ignore

Difficulty breathing
Seizures
Sudden collapse or unresponsiveness
Swollen or bloated abdomen
Uncontrolled bleeding
High or very low body temperature
Refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours
Crying in pain or excessive panting
Poison ingestion (chocolate, onions, medicines, etc.)

These symptoms could be signs of serious conditions like organ failure, internal bleeding, or poisoning — all of which require immediate medical attention.

🩺 What to Do in an Emergency

Stay calm and act quickly
Call your vet or nearest animal hospital
Provide as much information as possible about the symptoms
Avoid giving human medicine, as it can be harmful

✅ Final Tip

The best way to protect your dog or cat is to know what’s normal and what’s not. Watch for changes in behavior, appetite, energy levels, or bathroom habits. The sooner you act, the better your pet’s chances of recovery.