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This is a collaborative post.
It’s wonderful to have a pet, as those who have chosen to allow an animal into their homes or yards will attest to. Whether you’ve gone down the traditional route of having a cat or dog or small caged creature, or you’ve decided on something a little different like chickens or snakes or an alpaca, no matter what you are going to need to take care of it. As much love, companionship, and entertainment as your pet will bring, your end of the deal is to make sure it is fed, exercised, and when it’s sick, you take it to an expert for help.
Knowing when to call on a vet for assistance isn’t always easy. Sometimes it’s obvious, of course, but since your pet won’t be able to tell you if they are feeling unwell, it’s wise to know what signs to look out for that will help you make the right choice. Read on to discover what some of them are.
Unusual Feeding Habits
Just like with humans, if your pet is feeling under the weather, they may well not feel much like eating. If your pet is normally happy to munch down a bowl of food but has recently not been interested or barely touched the food you have given them, they are more than likely not well and they should be taken to a vet, especially if they are also losing weight.
Equally, if your pet is eating much more than usual, a vet could be useful. A sudden surge in appetite can mean pregnancy, or it might be a sign of a tumour, and either way, you are going to need medical assistance for your pet.
Malaise
Some pets sleep a lot; it’s just their way. Cats, for example, sleep an average of 15 hours a day, and some dogs, particularly elderly ones, aren’t that far behind. Plus, many small rodents are nocturnal, so although you might only ever see them sleeping, they might be very active when the rest of the household has gone to bed.
When this changes and your normally active and excitable pet starts to sleep a lot more and shows disinterest in activities that it would once have enjoyed, there might be a problem. Sometimes you can put this kind of malaise down to old age or the temperature, but if it lasts for more than 48 hours, it could mean something more serious, including thyroid problems.
Extreme Thirst
Did you know that pets can suffer from diabetes in the same way as humans can? And that one of the signs – extreme thirst – is the same for your pet as it would be for you? It’s true; if you see your pet drinking a lot more than usual and never seeming to be able to quench their thirst, then it’s a good idea to book an appointment with the vet sooner rather than later.
A Change To Their Coat
If your pet is a furry one, you should always keep an eye on their coat as this is a good indicator of their overall health. If it’s soft and shiny, then they are probably fine and healthy. If it’s brittle or dull or they are losing a lot of it (and it’s not down to natural moulting habits), then it could indicate a wide variety of different conditions.
They might, for example, have a skin condition, but equally, they could have developed cancer or allergies or may even have digestive problems. Because you won’t know until you speak to a vet, that’s the place to go.