When your pet is unwell, it's hard to know whether to wait for an appointment or head straight to an emergency hospital. This guide covers the signs that usually mean urgent care, but it isn't a substitute for advice from a vet. If you're unsure, call your vet or an emergency clinic. They can tell you over the phone whether your pet needs to be seen now.
Go to an emergency vet now if your pet
- has trouble breathing, or is breathing very fast or noisily at rest
- has collapsed, can't stand, or is suddenly very weak
- has a seizure, or several in a row
- is bleeding heavily, or bleeding won't stop after five minutes of pressure
- has pale, blue or gray gums
- has a swollen, hard belly, especially with retching that brings nothing up (in dogs, this can be bloat, which is life-threatening)
- has been hit by a car, fallen from a height, or been attacked by another animal, even if they seem fine
- may have eaten something poisonous, such as chocolate, grapes or raisins, xylitol (in sugar-free gum), medicines, antifreeze or rat poison
- is straining to urinate and producing little or nothing, especially male cats
- is in obvious severe pain, crying out or unable to settle
Call your vet today if your pet
- has vomited or had diarrhea more than a couple of times, or for more than a day
- isn't eating, especially for more than a day (sooner for cats, puppies and kittens)
- is limping but still putting some weight on the leg
- has a cut that might need stitches
- is drinking or urinating much more than usual
- has a sore, red or weeping eye
It can usually wait for a regular appointment if
- your pet has a mild itch, a small lump that hasn't changed, or slightly bad breath
- they're eating, drinking and acting normally apart from one minor symptom
Even then, book an appointment rather than waiting for it to go away. Small problems are easier and cheaper to treat early.
What to do on the way
- Call ahead. The clinic can prepare for your arrival and may give first aid advice.
- Keep your pet still and warm. Move injured pets on a flat surface such as a board or a blanket held taut.
- Bring the evidence. If your pet ate something, bring the packaging or a sample.
- Don't give human medicines. Many common painkillers are toxic to pets.
- Be careful. Pets in pain can bite, even gentle ones.
Find your nearest emergency vet now
The worst time to search for an emergency clinic is during an emergency. Look up your nearest 24-hour hospital today and save its number in your phone. Find an emergency vet near you, or find a regular vet for everything else.