How do you tell if a pet is sick?
Physical signs:
- Unusual behavior: Changes in appetite, lethargy, or unusual pacing.
- Loss of appetite: Not eating or refusing to eat.
- Weight loss: Loss of weight or failure to gain weight.
- Lethargy: Lack of energy or inactivity.
- Fever: High body temperature.
- Cough or sneeze: Persistent coughing or sneezing.
- Red or swollen eyes: Red or swollen eyes.
- Unusual discharge from nose or mouth: Green, yellow, or bloody discharge.
- Unusual skin lesions: Red, swollen, or bumpy skin lesions.
- Unusual vocalizations: Changes in the way a pet communicates.
Behavioral signs:
- Changes in personality: Anxious, depressed, or irritable behavior.
- Unusual vocalizations: Growling, whimpering, or other unusual vocalizations.
- Aggression towards other pets or people: Growling, snapping, or lunging.
- Unusual fear or anxiety: Fear of unfamiliar people or places.
- Hiding or avoiding attention: Hiding from people or other pets.
- Lack of responsiveness: Not responding to normal commands or attention.
Other signs:
- Excessive thirst or urination: Increased water consumption or frequent urination.
- Increased thirst for food: Increased appetite.
- Decreased urine output: Dry or infrequent urine output.
- Loss of appetite: Loss of interest in eating.
- Excessive grooming or self-grooming: Grooming more than usual.
- Unusual sleep patterns: Sleeping more or less than usual.
- Changes in energy levels: Becoming lethargic or overly energetic.
- Signs of illness in young animals: Excessive crying, diarrhea, vomiting, or lethargy.
It's important to note that not all changes in behavior or appearance indicate illness. However, if you notice any of these signs, it's important to take your pet to the vet for a diagnosis.
