As a pet owner, it’s important for you to be aware of the types of issues that can befall your furry friend. This will ensure you’re prepared to act swiftly when they need you most. Here are some common cat emergencies and what you should do if they occur.
Coughing and difficulty breathing An array of problems can affect a cat’s ability to breathe, including bacterial infections, asthma, heart disease or fluid buildup in the lungs. If you notice that your cat is breathing with their mouth open, coughing, wheezing or signs of abnormal breathing, contact an emergency vet in Toronto immediately or head to the nearest cat clinic. Persistent diarrhea and vomiting Not all cases of diarrhea and vomiting are a cause for concern, but if the issue persists for several hours, it likely indicates a serious gastrointestinal problem or that they ingested something poisonous. What’s more, it can leave your cat severely dehydrated. If your pet vomits more than once, or you notice blood in their stool, it’s best to head to a 24-hour vet as soon as possible. Ingested toxic substance There are a wide range of common household items that can poison your cat if ingested. From antifreeze and cleaning chemicals to medications, chocolate and certain plants, make sure your pet can’t get their paws of anything that could harm them. Persistent vomiting or diarrhea, difficulty breathing, lethargy and blood in their vomit or stool are just some of the signs that you should contact a 24-hour emergency vet right away. Trouble urinating If you notice that your male cat is making numerous trips to the litter box but is unable to urinate more than a few drops, this could be due to a urinary obstruction. If left untreated, this condition can cause severe pain and lead to kidney failure, a ruptured bladder or cardiac arrest. A kidney stone or urinary tract infection could also be behind your cat’s inability to urinate. Either way, it’s best to seek veterinary help as soon as possible. Ingested foreign object Most cats love to play with ropes, ribbons and a variety of other makeshift toys. However, if any of these objects get swallowed and trapped in their throat or intestines, they can cause serious damage. If you suspect your cat has swallowed something they shouldn’t have or your furry friend shows signs of distress, head to your local animal hospital just to be safe. Your trusted emergency vet In the event of an emergency, you can count on the friendly staff at the Bellamy-Lawrence Animal Hospital to treat your pet as their own. Whether they need surgery or just a simple check-up, we can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in Toronto.