Pets can't tell us when something is wrong. They rely on us to notice, and often their instinct is to hide discomfort until it becomes severe. Knowing which signs to take seriously could genuinely save your pet's life.
Our vets at Paws & Co Veterinary Centre in Tingley have put together this guide to help you decide when to call us immediately — and when a routine appointment will do.
Seek Emergency Care Immediately For:
1. Difficulty Breathing
Open-mouth breathing in cats, laboured breathing, blue-tinged gums, or any sign of respiratory distress warrants an emergency call. Do not wait.
2. Collapse or Sudden Weakness
If your pet collapses, cannot stand, or suddenly loses the use of their back legs, this is an emergency. It can indicate heart problems, a blood clot, spinal injury, or internal bleeding.
3. Repeated Retching Without Vomiting
Especially in larger breed dogs, retching without producing anything can be a sign of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV or bloat) — a life-threatening emergency. Don't take a "wait and see" approach.
4. Suspected Poisoning
If your pet has eaten something toxic — chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free products), grapes, raisins, slug pellets, human medications, rat bait — call us immediately even if they seem fine. Many toxins have a delayed effect.
5. Seizures
A first seizure or a seizure lasting more than two to three minutes requires urgent veterinary attention. Keep your pet away from hazards but do not restrain them.
Call Paws & Co on 0113 868 6100. Our team will advise immediately. For out-of-hours emergencies we can refer you to an appropriate emergency service.
Book Within 24 Hours For:
6. Not Eating for More Than 24 Hours
Occasional fussiness is normal, but a full day without eating — especially in cats — warrants a call. Cats in particular can develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) within days of not eating.
7. Straining to Urinate
Particularly urgent in male cats. A blocked bladder is life-threatening if left untreated. Crying in the litter tray, squatting repeatedly without producing urine, or blood in urine — call us.
8. Sudden Behaviour Change
A normally sociable dog who becomes withdrawn, a cat who suddenly hisses when touched, or any sudden shift in personality can indicate pain or neurological change.
9. Persistent Limping or Lameness
A pet who is consistently lame on a limb — or not bearing weight at all — needs assessment. Don't assume it'll resolve on its own.
10. A Lump That Appears Suddenly or Is Changing
Not all lumps are cancer, but all lumps are worth checking. A rapidly growing mass, one that has changed in shape or texture, or any lump your pet seems sensitive about should be assessed promptly.
When in Doubt, Call Us
Our team is always happy to advise over the phone. We'd far rather you ring to check than wait when something needed urgent attention. Call 0113 868 6100 any time during practice hours.