Wouldn’t it be great if your pet could tell you when they feel sick or unwell? Unfortunately, they can’t, so you need to be alert to subtle changes in their health. Our Walnut Creek Vet Hospital team shares some key health signs in your pet that you should always pay attention to.
#1: Sudden weight loss or gain in pets
A loss or gain in your furry friend’s weight that has no apparent cause (e.g., purposeful cutting back on daily food intake) can indicate a serious condition. Weight fluctuations in pets can be caused by various health issues, including:
- Metabolic disorders
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Diabetes
- Dental disease
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Kidney or liver disease
- Anxiety
- Changes in quality or type of food
A pet’s body condition score is a quantitative assessment of their fat accumulation that ranges from one (i.e., emaciated) to nine (i.e., obese) and is the best indicator of healthy weight. Your veterinarian can evaluate this score and gauge your pet’s healthy weight, which is a better indicator than the number on the scale. Sudden weight loss or gain should prompt a visit to your veterinarian for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
#2: Your pet is drinking more water than usual
How much your pet drinks can offer clues to their general health. Hydration is necessary for all animals, including pets, and contributes to proper organ function. However, a significant increase in water intake can signal several health issues, such as:
- Dental problems
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Infection
- Cancer
During warmer weather or if your pet has engaged in a vigorous form of play or exercise, they will drink more water. If your pet consistently drinks a lot of water, however, your veterinarian should check it out. Monitoring your pet’s drinking habits and promptly addressing any changes are essential for their well-being.
#3: Lethargy or weakness in your pet
If your pet displays unusual lethargy, weakness, or reluctance to engage in activities they typically enjoy, it may be a sign of pain, illness, or underlying health concerns. Like people, pets may have lazy days, but persistent lethargy warrants a thorough examination by your veterinarian to rule out any serious conditions.
#4: Your pet is having difficulty breathing
Labored breathing, coughing, wheezing, or other respiratory symptoms should be considered serious. If your pet is struggling to breathe, it’s an emergency. Take them immediately to the nearest veterinary emergency hospital or call Walnut Creek Vet Hospital for instructions. Causes of breathing difficulties include:
- Respiratory infections
- Heart disease
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Chronic bronchitis
- Heart failure
- Laryngeal paralysis, leading to a narrowing of the airway
Certain breeds, such as brachycephalic breeds (e.g., bulldogs, pugs, boxers), may have breathing difficulties as a result of their facial anatomy. However, your veterinarian should investigate any cause of breathing difficulties in your pet.
#5: Changes in your pet’s elimination habits
Altered bathroom habits can indicate a health problem. If your pet has difficulty urinating, blood in their urine or feces, diarrhea, or constipation, they may have such underlying health issues as urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal disorders, or cancer. Monitoring your pet’s bathroom habits and seeking veterinary advice for persistent changes are crucial for early detection and treatment.
#6: Your pet is vomiting or has diarrhea
Your pet may have occasional vomiting or diarrhea as a result of dietary indiscretions or minor stomach upsets. However, persistent episodes can indicate more serious health concerns, such as gastrointestinal infections, inflammatory bowel disease, exposure to a toxic substance, or pancreatitis. Prolonged vomiting or diarrhea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, necessitating prompt veterinary intervention.
#7: Changes in your pet’s behavior or demeanor
Most pets are creatures of habit, and any changes in their behavior, personality, or temperament should signal the need for further investigation. If your ordinarily energetic pooch is lethargic or uninterested in play, or your cat is hiding more, they may be experiencing a medical problem.
Aggression, excessive vocalization, hiding, or withdrawal may indicate pain, stress, anxiety, or a medical condition that requires attention. Close observation and communication with your veterinarian are essential for addressing pet behavioral changes.
Being attentive to your pet’s well-being involves love, affection, and awareness of subtle changes in their health. With any medical issue, the earlier your pet is seen by your veterinarian, the better the prognosis. If you notice any of these health signs or other changes, contact the Walnut Creek Vet Hospital team so we can work on solving the problem.
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