Health
Pets can't tell us when something is wrong — they show us. Learning to recognise warning signs early can save lives and money.
Symptoms requiring veterinary attention
- Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhoea
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Lethargy, weakness or reluctance to move
- Coughing, wheezing or laboured breathing
- Excessive thirst or urination
- Limping, stiffness or trouble standing
- Changes in behaviour: hiding, aggression, vocalisation
- Skin issues: persistent itching, hair loss, hotspots
- Bad breath, drooling or pawing at the mouth
Preventive care
Prevention is cheaper and kinder than treatment.
- Vaccinations on schedule
- Parasite control — fleas, ticks, heartworm, intestinal worms
- Dental care — daily brushing plus professional cleanings
- Weight management — leanness is a top longevity factor
- Spay/neuter — reduces certain cancers and behavioural issues
Regular checkups
- Puppies/kittens: every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks
- Adults: once a year
- Seniors (7+): every 6 months, with bloodwork
Routine visits catch silent issues like dental disease, kidney changes and tumours early when treatment is most effective.
Emergency situations
Go to a vet immediately if you see:
- Trauma (hit by car, falls, bite wounds)
- Suspected poisoning (chocolate, antifreeze, plants, medications)
- Difficulty breathing or pale/blue gums
- Collapse, seizures or sudden disorientation
- Bloated, hard abdomen (especially in deep-chested dogs)
- Inability to urinate (life-threatening in male cats)
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Heatstroke — heavy panting, drooling, weakness on hot days
When in doubt, call your vet. A quick phone consultation is always cheaper than a missed emergency.