11 Telltale Signs You Have a Sick Pet

Over 90 million U.S. homes owned a pet as of 2022, with good reason.

Pets provide companionship and can make us feel less alone. They're also great stress relievers, especially for those who don't have children or other people to talk to.

If you're a pet owner and think your animal may be sick, you want to visit a veterinarian as soon as possible. But how do you know when it's time for your pet to see a doctor?

If you are wondering what are the telltale signs you have a sick pet, this short and simple guide is for you.

1. Increased Sleepiness

If your pet is suddenly sleeping more than usual, it could be for several reasons.

If your pet is suffering from an injury or has arthritis, they may try to sleep off the discomfort. Another reason could be that they are dealing with an infection.

If you think your pet is sleeping too much, it's important to bring them to a pet clinic for a checkup as soon as possible.

2. Loss of Appetite

If your pet has lost its appetite, it could be a sign that something is wrong.

It could mean that your pet has depression, or it could be an early sign of illness. A loss of appetite can be a sign of anemia, kidney disease, or diabetes.

If you notice your pet is not eating, it's important to take them to urgent care for pets right away.

3. Constipation

Constipation is a common problem in many pets.

If you notice your pet has not used the bathroom for a few days, it could be because they are experiencing constipation. You can also tell if your pet is constipated by examining their feces or stool.

If your pet has a hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass, they are likely constipated. Take them to the vet if you notice this, as it could be an early sign of some serious health issues.

4. Scabbing on the Skin

Scabbing can occur on the skin surface or within the tissue itself.

The scabs may form in patches or single spots around the body. The scabs may be small or large, and they can be light pink or dark red.

If you notice scabs on your pet's skin, it is best to take them to the veterinarian. Scabbing can be an early symptom of some serious conditions, such as allergies or skin diseases.

5. Offensive Odors

An unpleasant smell coming from your pet can mean a bacterial infection or another health problem.

The smell may be like that of rotting meat or eggs, or it may be a foul odor similar to the smell of garbage. Your pet may also have an offensive odor if they're not eating properly or if they have an obstruction in their intestines.

If your pet smells bad, get them checked out right away. And if you don't have pet insurance, check out the Best pet insurance companies, here.

6. Seizures

A seizure is a sudden, involuntary contraction that occurs in the brain.

It's often associated with a change in your pet's behavior, such as staring blankly into space or running around aimlessly. Seizures are usually brief, lasting only a few seconds.

If your pet has a seizure, keep them safe from injury and contact your veterinarian.

7. Changes in Urination Habits

Changes in urination habits can be a sign of kidney disease, diabetes, or other conditions.

If your pet is peeing more often than usual, a urinary tract infection or other illness could cause it. If they're going less often than usual, this could suggest a problem with their kidneys or bladder.

Contact your veterinarian if you notice these changes in your pet's behavior.

8. Sores That Don't Heal

If your pet has a sore that doesn't heal, it may have a skin condition or an underlying health issue. The most common cause of non-healing sores is fleas or parasites.

Other causes include allergies, infections, and cancer.

If you are dealing with this problem, contact your veterinarian immediately. They can help determine if an infection or a skin condition caused the sore and treat it accordingly.

9. Trouble Breathing

If your pet is having trouble breathing, this can be a sign of several conditions.

If they're panting more than usual, they may have an infection or other illness. But if they're breathing fast and shallow, this could mean that fluid has built up in their lungs or chest cavity.

If your pet is having difficulty breathing, you need to act fast. Call your vet right away and follow their instructions until help arrives.

10. Swelling

Swelling can come from fluid buildup or inflammation.

It can happen if they've eaten something that wasn't meant for them and it got stuck in their intestinal tract. It can also be a sign of infection or trauma to the abdomen.

If they have swelling, it's important to get them to the vet as soon as possible. They may need medication or surgery to correct the problem.

11. Extreme Mood Changes

Extreme mood changes are a sign that your pet is in pain.

If your pet is normally happy and playful but suddenly becomes quiet and withdrawn, this can be a sign of pain. Your pet may also become aggressive or irritable, especially if you try to touch the area that hurts.

If you're concerned that your pet is in pain, take him to the vet right away. The sooner you can get treatment for him, the better off he'll be.

These Are the Signs of a Sick Pet

Pets can't talk, so it's hard to tell if they're feeling ill.

It's important to pay attention to any changes in your pet's behavior or routine. By knowing the signs of a sick pet, you can help your pet get back on the path to good health.

For more on pet health, check out the latest articles on our blog.