One of the scariest parts about pet ownership is having a sick pet and not really knowing what to do. Luckily, a veterinarian at a veterinary hospital can always evaluate your pet and let you know if the situation is an emergency. Here are some important things to look out for that will help you keep your pet safe when they are sick.
How Much & How Often is Your Pet Getting Sick?
First, you should assess how often your pet has gotten sick with vomiting or diarrhea. One episode of vomiting or diarrhea when your pet is otherwise acting normal isn’t a reason to worry. More than two episodes in 24 hours could indicate a problem, and you should call your veterinarian for advice.
What is Causing the Vomiting & Diarrhea?
The next thing you should do is try to determine what is causing your pet’s diarrhea or vomiting. If your pet is straining a lot when they poop and is only passing watery diarrhea, they may have an intestinal blockage. This is a veterinary emergency and you should take your pet to an emergency veterinary hospital right away. If you know your pet ate some table scraps and you think they might have an upset stomach, you can keep your pet away from food for 24 hours and see if the symptoms pass. Make sure your pet has access to clean, fresh drinking water. If your pet got into the garbage and you don’t know what they ate, or if you are worried they consumed something toxic, you should take them to a veterinary hospital.
Assess Your Pet’s Other Symptoms
Determine if your pet has any other symptoms other than vomiting and/or diarrhea. If your pet has any of these other symptoms, you should take them to an emergency veterinarian right away:
- Bloody stool
- Excessive drooling
- Weakness or fatigue
- Signs of dehydration
- Lack of appetite
Always have the number of the closest emergency veterinary hospital on hand, and be aware of their operating hours so you can call them for advice in an emergency.
