Owning a pet, whether a dog, cat, fish, hamster, lizard, or anything in between, can be a lot of fun, but it’s also a lot of responsibility. One of the trickiest parts of owning a pet is that they often show signs of being sick in ways that humans do not. Thus, it’s harder to know when they’re just acting funny or if they’re actually sick. Continue reading below to learn the most common signs that your pet may be sick.
They Act Differently
One of the most major signs that your pet may be sick is they start acting differently. This behavior change can look different for every pet since not every pet is the same. For example, if your dog starts eating a lot less and is losing weight, you should take them to a veterinarian so they can look internally for other signs of sickness.
Similarly, if you have a hamster or other rodent who stops eating or starts to run on its wheel a lot less, there may be something wrong with them. Every pet has its everyday habits and rituals, and when they’re sick, they begin doing things a little differently, signaling it may be time to take them to the vet.
Change in Smell
Another sign that your pet may be sick is if they start smelling worse. Animals can also get bacterial infections, and one common sign of these infections is a foul odor coming off them. You may notice that the smell is coming from their ears or in the form of bad breath. Additionally, parts of their skin may start to smell bad. You can try bathing them, if that’s an option with your animal, but if the smell persists, you should absolutely consult a veterinarian.
Trouble Breathing
A common sign that your pet may feel unwell is if their breathing changes. A pet can often have respiratory problems such as sneezing or panting. Consider consulting with a veterinarian if you notice any of these signs or additional symptoms such as wheezing or excessive snot. It could be something as simple as they spent too much time outside and have heat fatigue, or they could have something more severe. Whatever the cause of the breathing trouble, a veterinarian can help identify it and get your pet the help they need.
By learning these common signs that your pet may be sick, you can help them get the care they need. Your pets don’t have the same volition as you. They cannot get up and go to the vet themselves. That’s why you must distinguish their normal behavior from abnormal behavior and recognize when they’re acting differently. If you can’t get them to the vet, look for a mobile vet. There are a lot of benefits of mobile vet clinics for pet owners, and in addition to regular checks, they can help take care of your pets in case of an emergency.
