Pets hide pain and illness well, so small changes matter. For each common worry below, here is what is an emergency, what needs a vet today, and what can wait a few days.
Lumps and bumps
- Right now: a lump that is bleeding heavily, or a sudden swelling of the face or belly.
- Today: a lump that is growing quickly, or is painful, hot or oozing.
- This week: a new small lump that isn't bothering your pet. Most lumps are harmless, but only a test can tell, so have every new lump checked.
Limping
- Right now: your pet won't put any weight on a leg after a fall or accident, or a leg looks out of place.
- Today: limping that doesn't ease within a day, or a swollen or painful joint.
- This week: stiffness after rest, which can be a sign of arthritis in older pets.
- Never give human pain medicines. Many are toxic to pets.
Not eating
- Right now: not eating along with vomiting, a swollen belly, weakness or pale gums.
- Today: a cat that hasn't eaten for a day, or a dog that has skipped more than a day of meals.
- This week: a gradual change in appetite or weight.
Low energy
- Right now: collapse, trouble breathing, or your pet can't get up.
- Today: unusually tired and not interested in food, walks or play.
- This week: slowing down over several weeks, which can be age, weight or an illness worth checking.
Eye problems
- Right now: an eye injury, or an eye that suddenly looks cloudy, very red or bulging.
- Today: squinting, pawing at an eye, or a lot of discharge.
- This week: mild tearing in a pet who otherwise seems fine.
When in doubt, call
Call us at (604) 888-2628 and describe what you see. We are open 7 days a week, and our team will tell you whether to come in today. After hours, go to a 24-hour emergency hospital if your pet has any of the right-now signs above.
