We want our pets to be happy and healthy. How can we recognize if our pet is experiencing any serious health issues? Let’s explore ways to check our pet’s health and signs that may indicate it’s time for a visit to the vet.
Behavioral Changes
One indicator to watch out for is significant changes in behavior. If your pet is unusually tired and has reduced activity and playtime from their regular routine, this could be a cause for concern. It may be a sign of infection, arthritis, or even heart disease.
Other behavioral changes to watch for are changes in eating and drinking habits. An increase or decrease in appetite, and drinking too much or not enough water, could mean your pet is dealing with dental or kidney issues, or possibly diabetes. It’s important to compare your pet’s typical eating and drinking routines so that you are aware if these patterns change significantly.
Physical Signs
Physical indicators should also be considered when monitoring your pet’s health. Keeping an eye on their skin and coat will help you spot if they have any itching, redness, sores, or bald patches. This means something bothering their skin may need to be checked out. It’s possible this could be due to an allergy, parasites like ticks and fleas, or an infection.
Another important physical indicator is significant weight loss or gain. Unexplained weight changes could point to metabolic disorders or tumors that need your vet’s prompt attention.
Changes in Bodily Functions
An increase or change in certain body functions will also alert you of potential health issues. If your pet is experiencing diarrhea or has problems urinating, this could indicate digestive problems or kidney diseases. Though throwing up occasionally isn’t uncommon, continuous vomiting is a problem and can also be a sign of kidney issues and possible infections.
Pay attention to coughing and sneezing as well. While these could be caused by dust or allergens, if they happen too often, they could be a sign of more serious causes, like respiratory infections or heart conditions.
Emotional and Mental Health
It’s super important to consider your pet’s physical health and how they feel emotionally and mentally. Signs like being less active, not as social, or changes in sleep and eating habits could mean they’re dealing with anxiety or depression. These behaviors might be because of chronic pain or stress that your pet is experiencing. If you see these signs, it’s best to talk with your vet so they can provide the best solutions for the happiness and well-being of your pet.
By keeping up with any behavioral or physical changes and monitoring bodily functions, you will be more likely to notice any serious health issues your pet may be experiencing. Regular check-ups are essential for catching issues early on. If you are ever unsure, the best thing you can do is ask a professional!
At Cascade Kennels, we know it’s not always easy to spot signs of health issues. Bringing your pet for regular grooming can benefit their health by getting them in front of trained professionals who know how to spot things quickly that might be harder for the untrained eye. Learn more about our grooming services and contact us today to make an appointment.
