Vet or Wait?
Not sure if your pet needs a vet visit right now? Browse common symptoms to find out when to go immediately and when it's OK to wait and monitor at home.
Dogs
Dog Coughing — Vet or Wait?
An occasional cough in a dog is normal, but persistent coughing, coughing with discharge, or breathing difficulty needs veterinary assessment.
Dog Diarrhea — Vet or Wait?
Mild diarrhea in an adult dog that is otherwise acting normal can usually be monitored at home for 24-48 hours, but bloody diarrhea or diarrhea with vomiting needs prompt veterinary attention.
Dog Lethargy — Vet or Wait?
A dog that is unusually tired after heavy exercise is normal, but sudden lethargy without obvious cause lasting more than 24 hours warrants veterinary evaluation.
Dog Limping — Vet or Wait?
Sudden severe limping or inability to bear weight requires same-day veterinary attention, while mild limping that develops gradually can often be monitored for 24-48 hours.
Dog Not Eating — Vet or Wait?
A healthy adult dog skipping one meal is rarely cause for alarm, but a dog that refuses food for 24+ hours or shows other symptoms needs veterinary evaluation.
Dog Vomiting — Vet or Wait?
A single episode of vomiting in an otherwise healthy dog is usually not an emergency, but repeated vomiting, blood, or lethargy means see a vet today.
Cats
Cat Hiding — Vet or Wait?
Some hiding is normal, but sudden increased hiding in a previously social cat, especially with other changes, can signal illness or pain.
Cat Not Eating — Vet or Wait?
A cat not eating for more than 24 hours is a real concern. Cats can develop dangerous hepatic lipidosis within 2-3 days of not eating.
Cat Sneezing — Vet or Wait?
Occasional sneezing is normal, but persistent sneezing with nasal or eye discharge, or decreased appetite may indicate an upper respiratory infection.
Cat Vomiting — Vet or Wait?
Occasional hairball vomiting is normal for cats, but frequent vomiting, blood, or vomiting combined with lethargy or not eating requires veterinary attention.
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