It’s important to be able to tell when your pet needs to go to the vet, especially if it’s your first time owning a pet. Read some of our best tips on when to take your cat or dog to the vet, so you can ensure they’re healthy and happy. Knowing what signs indicate that your pet needs medical attention can help prevent serious health problems down the road.
Here are our top 5 signs your pet needs to visit the vet:
1. Change in appetite
A sudden decrease in appetite or weight loss can be a sign of illness in your pet. If you notice that your pet is eating less than usual or has lost weight, it’s important to take them to the vet to find out what’s causing the problem. This could be caused by a number of things including dental diseases or pain.
2. Change in bathroom habits
A change in bathroom habits is another sign that something could be wrong with your pet. If your pet is urinating or defecating more frequently than usual, or if there are changes in the appearance of their stool, this could be a sign of an underlying health condition.
3. Change in energy level
If you notice that your pet seems unusually tired or lazy, this could be a sign of illness. A sudden decrease in energy levels can be a sign of many different health problems, so it’s important to have your pet checked out by the vet if you notice this change.
4. Change in behaviour
A change in behaviour is often one of the first signs that something is wrong with your pet. If you notice your pet acting differently than usual, such as being more aggressive or withdrawn, this could be a sign of an underlying health condition.
5. Physical changes
Changes in your pet’s physical appearance can also be a sign of illness. If you notice anything unusual about your pet’s fur, skin, eyes, or nails, it’s important to have them checked out by the vet.
If you notice any of these changes in your pet, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of health problems can often help improve your pet’s prognosis and prevent serious complications down the road.
Signs your dog needs to go to the vet
If your dog is showing any of the signs listed above it might be time to make a visit to see your vet. Dogs often will become quiet and not themselves when they are unwell. To ensure your beloved pup is well cared for and remains in optimal health it’s important to have a general check-up 1-2 times per year. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t see a vet more regularly if issues arise.
When should I take my cat to the vet?
Similar to dogs, cats should also see a vet once to twice a year for a routine check-up, even if they seem healthy. This is important because cats are experts at hiding signs of illness and disease, and many health problems can go unnoticed until they become serious.
Do indoor cats need to go to the vet?
Yes, indoor cats still need to see the vet regularly. In fact, because they don’t have the opportunity to build up immunity to diseases by coming into contact with other animals, it’s even more important that they stay up-to-date on their vaccinations and have regular check-ups.
What to do before going to the vet
Before taking your pet to the vet, make sure you have all their important information handy. This includes their vaccination records and any medications they are currently taking. It’s also a good idea to write down any questions or concerns you have about your pet’s health so you can be sure to get all the information you need from the vet.
Going to the vet can be a daunting experience, but it doesn’t have to be. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, our team at Plus One Vet is here to help.
Plus One Vet is well known in Sunnybank, Sunnybank Hills, Mount Gravatt, Upper Mount Gravatt, Calamvale & Algester for providing quality care for pets. We offer comprehensive wellness examinations and can provide guidance on all aspects of your pet’s care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
