4 Signs its Time to Take Your Pet to the Vet

If you are lucky enough to have a furry companion as part of your household, you will know that it can be difficult to figure out when your pet is feeling under the weather. Obviously, they cannot speak up and tell you when their stomach is hurting or if they are experiencing pain in their joints. It is important to take your pet for a regular check-up at least once or twice a year, but how can you know when an impromptu veterinary visit is in order? Here are the signs to watch out for.

Your pet’s energy levels are low

If your usually energetic pet is spending more time lying in bed or seems disinterested in the activities that used to get them excited, you can be rather certain that something is amiss. If this fatigue is accompanied by a reluctance to eat or drink, it is definitely time to seek medical attention at a trustworthy, walk-in vet, such as veterinarianjohnsoncitytn.com.

Your pet’s stomach seems to be gurgling

Loud gurgling noises coming from your pet’s stomach are indicative of a digestive upset and could signal that vomiting or diarrhea are soon to follow. Keep a close eye on your pet when they venture outside to do their business and head to the vet if any stomach upsets persist for longer than 24 hours. If there is any blood or mucus present in their stool, get them to the vet as quickly as possible as this is a sign of a much more serious problem.

Your pet’s struggling to walk

As your dog or cat ages, there is a high chance that they will begin to suffer from arthritis, which causes significant pain in the joints and makes it challenging for them to remain mobile. According to research many pets will experience arthritis as they enter their golden years. If your pet seems to be struggling to walk, is limping, or finds it difficult to stand up, sit down, or climb the stairs, a trip to the vet is a must. Once arthritis is diagnosed and the resultant pain is treated, it is a condition that is fairly easy to manage in the long term.

Your pet’s scratching excessively

It is normal for your pet to scratch every now and again. It is when this behavior becomes excessive that you may need to investigate further. Itchy skin could be a symptom of a wide range of problems and health conditions. For instance, it could indicate that your pet has a flea infestation or an allergy. It could also be a sign that they are battling with anxiety. For many pets, scratching is a means of coping with overwhelming emotions. Either way, it is worth getting it checked out by a professional for peace of mind, especially if the scratching is leaving your pet inflamed and sore.

Ultimately, taking your fur child to the vet is recommended if ever you are worried that they are in pain or unwell. It is always better to be safe than sorry!