All pet owners want what’s best for their animals, but it can be difficult to determine whether an injury or illness is serious enough to head to the veterinarian for care. After all, pets aren’t able to describe their levels of pain and discomfort. That’s why it’s essential for pet owners to keep an eye out for the following symptoms of serious illnesses and injuries and to head to the vet in Bowie as soon as they appear.
Vomiting and Diarrhea
These two non-specific symptoms can be caused by a wide number of underlying problems. One or two instances of vomiting aren’t usually any reason to be concerned but, if the animal has persistent nausea, it can lead to dehydration, so it’s a good idea to seek treatment as soon as possible. Similarly, even comparatively mild cases of diarrhea can lead to dehydration and nutrient loss. Seek treatment quickly to avoid more serious health issues.
Lumps and Bumps
While a few bug bites can usually be treated at home with over-the-counter flea and tick treatments, serious lumps, bumps, and swelling may be signs of fluid buildup, abscesses, parasites, or even cancer. While most lumps are fairly harmless, there is always a chance they may be a symptom of a serious underlying problem. Any persistent unusual bumps should be evaluated by a vet in Bowie to ensure they are not symptoms of any serious health issue.
Changes in Gait
Humans are able to tell their doctors when they are experiencing mobility issues, but pets don’t have that luxury. There are many reasons for limping and changes in gait and they range significantly in severity, but just about all of them require medical attention to avoid long-term lameness.
Appetite Changes
Changes in the amount of food and water that pets consume are often early indicators of systemic diseases. These are most common in older animals but should not be ignored in pets of any age. Pet owners should contact Gambrills Veterinary to schedule an appointment as soon as they notice their animals beginning to eat or drink less than normal, as catching these systemic diseases early often has a substantial impact on treatment outcomes.
