Four Signs Your Pet Needs To Go To An Animal Hospital
Pets are susceptible to disease and health issues just like humans are, and these issues can come up unexpectedly. Treating health issues early can help make sure that they do not become serious or life-threatening, and can restore your pet's quality of life. Understanding some of the warning signs associated with an ill pet that is in need of veterinary services can help you figure out when you should head to an animal hospital.
Not Eating
The most obvious sign that something is bothering your pet is if they have a complete loss of appetite and will not touch their food. Keep in mind that this is different than your pet simply not finishing all of their food, or expressing a distaste for a new brand of kibble: such issues are usually not health related and will resolve themselves within a day or two. Complete avoidance of food can point to serious digestive issues or another health issue that can seriously threaten the well-being of your pet. Further, an extended period of not eating can cause other complications that can harm the health of your pet, and so a veterinarian should take a look at your animal straight away.
Not Drinking
In a similar vein, this is even more serious if they will not drink water: pets that do not stay properly hydrated put themselves at a severe health risk that can affect their internal organs. If your pet has avoided water for even just a day, and appears to have a dry nose and lips, you should head to an animal hospital straight away.
Altered Appearance
Some health issues may not affect your pets' stomach, but will instead alter their physical appearance. A variety of illnesses will have a variety of different effects, but in general you should keep an eye out for dull eyes, any sort of pus or blood coming off of their skin, a hot temperature and dry nose or tongue, and bumps or other irregularities on their skin, like missing patches of fur. Having a professional veterinarian take a look at your pet can help diagnose these symptoms and treat them before they have the chance to spread.
Vomit and Diarrhea
Finally, a fairly obvious sign that something is wrong with your pet is if they experience chronic vomiting or diarrhea. Hairballs and a single bout of diarrhea can usually be attributed to eating something improper, and if they happen only once in a while they usually are not indicative of an underlying health issue, but if your pet seems distressed and continues to vomit or have diarrhea over a period of longer than a day, you should make sure that they stay hydrated and contact an animal hospital as soon as possible.
For more information, contact establishments like Norwin Veterinary Hospital.