Talk to your veterinarian if you notice any of these signs in your cat or dog.
Too bad pets can’t talk! It would be so much easier if they did so they could tell us when something was wrong. Instead, pet owners need to be attuned to their pet’s habits in order to spot when something seems out of place. Read on for six signs that could be cause for concern.
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1
Weight loss
Unless you have an overweight pet on a diet, he shouldn’t be losing weight. Weight loss can be a sign of digestive problems, dental issues, or a metabolic disorder. If you notice your pet getting thinner, keep track of his weight for a few weeks to see if it continues to drop — losing more than 10% of his body weight could be cause for concern.
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2
Excessive thirst
Finding yourself refilling your pet’s water bowl more often? Lots of visits to the water bowl could be a symptom of diabetes or kidney disease. It could also be a side effect of a medication. In any case, keep an eye out for excessive thirst.
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3
Changes in behavior
Any deviation from his usual behavior could be a sign that your pet is dealing with some sort of health problem. Changes in temperament, increased anxiety, or fluctuations in activity level could be a symptom of disease or disorder.
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4
Fatigue and lethargy
It’s natural for your pet’s energy to ebb and flow during his lifespan, but extreme lethargy is cause for concern. Take note of any unexplained drops in energy, hesitations in jumping or using stairs, or other decreases in his usual activities.
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5
Respiratory issues
All pets sneeze or cough occasionally, just like us humans. Increased or frequent sneezing and coughing could be signs of kennel cough, a respiratory infection, or even an airway obstruction.
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6
Changes in bathroom habits
Your pet likely has regular bathroom habits, so you know what is and isn’t normal. If you notice anything unusual — like constipation, bloody stool, or trouble urinating — it could be a sign of disease.
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While your pet’s behavior and habits will change over time, it’s good to keep an eye on unusual or significant changes. Be sure to keep track of any potential issues and let a veterinarian know — it could help your pet live a longer and healthier life!
