Signs It Is Time for a Veterinary Visit

As the person who spends the most time with your pet, you need to know what’s normal for her. That way, if something changes, you’ll notice and can let Dr. Peggy know. When you first get a new pet, examine her from nose to tail, and make a point of periodically reexamining her. Below are some signs that something isn’t right.

MENTAL STATE & BEHAVIOR

• Abnormal sleep patterns


• Aggression


• Loss of balance


• Seizures


• Sluggishness

LUNGS & HEART

• Coughing


• Exercise intolerance


• Fainting


• Nasal discharge


• Shortness of breath

DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

• Abdominal pain or swelling


• Diarrhea or constipation


• Loss of appetite or increased appetite


• “Scooting” the rear across the floor


• Vomiting

MUSCLES & BONES

• Difficulty rising or using stairs


• Limping or lameness


• Swelling

URINARY & REPRODUCTIVE TRACTS

• Difficult, painful, or bloody urination


• Excessive drinking and/or urination


• “Spraying” or not using the litterbox


• Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina

SKIN & HAIRCOAT

• Excessive scratching or licking at the skin


• Lumps and bumps that last more than a few days or get bigger


• Skin lesions


• Unusual hair loss

GENERAL

• Sudden weight loss or gain


• Unusual swelling on the neck beneath the jaw, on the front of the chest, or behind the knees

EYES, EARS, & MOUTH

• Appearance of third eyelid


• Bumping into things (e.g., furniture)


• Eye inflammation and/or discharge


• Ear inflammation and/or discharge (often smelly)


• Broken or loose teeth


• Discolored teeth


• Inflamed or pale gums


• Mouth odor