Signs Your Pet is Sick | Identify Pet Illness Early
General Signs of Illness in Pets
- Changes in Appetite: A sudden increase or decrease in your pet's appetite can be a sign of
- Lethargy: Unusual tiredness or lack of energy may indicate that your pet is not feeling
- Weight Loss or Gain: Significant changes in weight without changes in diet can be a sign of health
- Vomiting or Diarrhea: Frequent vomiting or diarrhea is a common symptom of many
- Coughing or Sneezing: Persistent coughing or sneezing can indicate respiratory issues or
- Excessive Thirst or Urination: Increased drinking or urination can be signs of diabetes, kidney disease, or other
- Changes in Behavior: Any sudden changes in your pet's behavior, such as aggression, hiding, or excessive clinginess, can be a red
- Difficulty Breathing: Labored or rapid breathing is a serious symptom that requires immediate veterinary
- Pain or Discomfort: Signs of pain, such as whimpering, limping, or reluctance to move, should be addressed
- Swelling or Lumps: Unexplained lumps or swelling can indicate infections, tumors, or other health
Specific Signs of Illness in Dogs
- Dry Nose: While not always a sign of illness, a persistently dry or cracked nose can indicate dehydration or other health
- Itchy or Red Skin: Skin irritations, rashes, or hair loss can be signs of allergies, infections, or
- Ear Discharge or Odor: Unusual discharge or odor from the ears can indicate an
- Cloudy or Red Eyes: Changes in the appearance of the eyes, including redness, cloudiness, or discharge, can be symptoms of infections or other eye conditions.
- Hind Leg Weakness: Weakness or difficulty standing or walking can indicate joint issues, neurological problems, or other health
Specific Signs of Illness in Cats
- Hiding: Cats often hide when they are not feeling well, so any increase in hiding behavior can be a sign of
- Changes in Grooming: Excessive grooming or lack of grooming can indicate stress, skin conditions, or other health
- Bad Breath: Foul-smelling breath can be a sign of dental disease or other internal
- Sudden Aggression: Increased aggression or irritability can be a sign that your cat is in pain or not feeling well.
- Changes in Litter Box Habits: Urinating or defecating outside the litter box can indicate urinary tract infections, kidney disease, or other health problems.