As a pet owner, it can be hard to see your dog or cat feeling under the weather. While a small cold isn’t usually anything to worry about, it’s important to know the warning signs that your pet needs to see a vet. If you notice the following issues, you should get your pet to an animal hospital as soon as possible.

How to Tell if Your Pet Needs to Go to an Animal Hospital

1. Difficulty Breathing

Breathing problems in pets can happen at any time and quickly become life-threatening. If your dog or cat is breathing noisily, their nostrils are flaring open, or the belly or chest wall is moving more than normal, these could be signs of trouble. If you notice these symptoms, it could be dyspnea—trouble breathing—or tachypnea, an unusually fast heartbeat. Certain dog breeds are more vulnerable to these issues, such as pugs, bulldogs, and boxers. 

2. Aggressive Behavior 

Uncharacteristic aggressive behavior could be an indicator of a medical issue. If your pet suddenly starts snapping, biting, or scratching, they may have a dental issue, injury, or infection. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you exactly what’s wrong and offer medication or recommend surgery.

3. Eye Issues

Eye issues could be an indicator of more serious problems. Bloodshot eyes could be a sign of anything from allergies to glaucoma. Eye secretion that’s yellow or green could indicate an infection. If your pet has dry eyes, corneal ulcers, or chronic drainage, it can be extremely painful. Your vet may recommend surgery to redirect a saliva duct to the eye to increase tear production. 

Keep your pets healthy with help from Woodworth Animal Hospital in Augusta County, VA. Their team of compassionate and dedicated professionals has been providing families with excellent pet care in the Shenandoah Valley for the past 80 years. This animal hospital also provides every patient with a personalized pet health page so you can manage all of your animal’s health needs in one convenient place. Learn more about their available services on their website, or call (540) 942-5163 to schedule an appointment at this animal hospital.