No one wants to imagine their pet getting hurt, but you should still be prepared for pet health emergencies. Learn when to bring your pet to the emergency vet as well as what you can do to help them in the following guide.

5 Urgent Pet Health Concerns

1. Trouble Breathing

Your pet may have difficulty breathing for many reasons, including trauma, infections, cancer, heart failure, obstruction of the airways, and asthma. Bring your pet to the veterinarian immediately to determine the cause and help them breathe normally again.

2. Open Wounds

Openly bleeding cuts, punctures, and sores can lead to infection if not handled promptly. As you take your pet to the veterinary hospital, apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth. Smaller wounds can be treated at home. Gently press against the scrape with a clean cloth until the bleeding stops, then clean and treat the area with antiseptic.

3. Allergic Reactions

Just like humans, animals can have allergic reactions that range from itchiness to anaphylaxis. Signs of a severe reaction include difficulty breathing, facial swelling, lethargy, and excessive vomiting and diarrhea. Quickly seek veterinary attention if your pet displays any of these symptoms. They can treat your pet and prescribe allergy medication.

4. Seizures

Seizures are characterized by violent convulsions and abnormal brain activity. If your pet is seizing, quickly clear the area of sharp and heavy objects to prevent injuries. Although some cases aren’t life-threatening, others can be a symptom of pet health problems like epilepsy and brain tumors. Bring your pet to the veterinarian after the episode passes for an evaluation.

5. Poisoning

Human foods, certain plants, and common household chemicals can be poisonous to animals. Pets don’t know this, and unfortunately, many will try eating just about anything. If you catch your pet ingesting these substances or suspect they have, move the toxin away and contact your veterinarian immediately.

If your pet needs urgent medical attention, bring them to Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital for emergency care. This Oahu veterinary clinic offers after-hour emergency services from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. every day. With over 47 years of experience, their staff is well equipped to handle a variety of pet health concerns, from injuries to allergies. Visit their website to view a full list of services. To contact a knowledgeable veterinarian about your pet’s health, call (808) 671-7387.