Even the most attentive pet owners may find it challenging
to identify signs of sickness in a dog or cat. Because sick pets are not able
to verbalize their pain, we have the responsibility to watch for signs of
illness in our four-legged friends. Paying close attention to your pet's normal
behavior will help you better identify signs of illness when they occur.
Sometimes, even the smallest changes in attitude or appetite may be caused by
an underlying health problem.
Deciding when to schedule a visit the veterinarian can be
also be a challenge. For example, vomiting is one of the most common symptoms
of illness in pets, however, dogs and cats may vomit on occasion without
actually being sick. So what symptoms warrant a trip to the veterinary clinic?
When your pet displays lethargy or is not eating concurrent with vomiting or
diarrhea or has reoccurring or bloody vomiting or diarrhea this is a sign that
your pet needs veterinary care. Lethargy is also a sign of illness. If your pet
has decreased energy or a lack of enthusiasm you should schedule an exam with
the veterinarian. It is important to note if your pet tires more easily than
usual or has unexplainable weakness. Pet owners should also contact the veterinary
clinic if they notice poor appetite, lameness, frequent or abnormal urination,
excessive scratching or licking, nasal discharge, constipation, an unusual bump
or excessive thirst.
It is an animal's instinct to hide symptoms of sickness
because in the wild, sick animals appear weak to predators or may be shunned by
their own kind. Domesticated dogs and cats have this same wild instinct which
makes identifying illness especially difficult. Maple Knoll Veterinary Clinic
encourages proactive and preventative health care rather than waiting until
your pet displays symptoms of illness. If you are unsure whether an appointment
with the veterinarian is necessary, please call Maple Knoll Veterinary Clinic
to discuss your questions with our staff.
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