You notice your dog is shaking their head and itching their ear. Maybe your cat frequently visits the litter box but doesn’t urinate much, if at all. The truth is that there are many pet illnesses that you need to know about as a pet owner. Even with common pet illnesses, early detection is key to preventing serious health issues in pets.
By identifying and treating pet illnesses at an early stage, you can prevent the progression of the disease. This is a must to avoid complications that can result in more serious health problems. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and keeping an eye out for any changes in your pet’s behavior or physical condition can help with early detection.
Below, we’ll outline some of the most common pet illnesses and how to spot them.
1. Ear Infections
Ear infections in dogs and cats are a common problem that can cause serious discomfort and pain. Left untreated, they can lead to more severe health issues. Infections can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, ear mites, and water in the ear canal. It is important to seek veterinary care if you suspect your pet has an ear infection to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.
These are some of the common symptoms of ear infections in dogs and cats:
- Head shaking or tilting
- Scratching or rubbing at ears
- Foul odor coming from the ears
- Redness or swelling of the ear canal
- Discharge from the ear
- Sensitivity to touch around the ears
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Hearing loss or decreased responsiveness to sounds
- Excessive licking or chewing of the paws or legs (in dogs)
It is important to note that not all pets will display all of these symptoms, and some may show no symptoms at all. If you suspect your pet has an ear infection, it is best to seek veterinary care for proper diagnosis and treatment.
2. Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections in dogs and cats are a common problem that can cause serious discomfort and pain. Left untreated, they can lead to more severe health issues, such as kidney damage or even sepsis. Infections can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacterial infections, bladder stones, and tumors. It is important to seek veterinary care if you suspect your pet has a urinary tract infection to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.
Does your dog or cat have a UTI? Keep an eye out for the following symptoms:
- Frequent urination
- Urinating in inappropriate places
- Straining or difficulty urinating
- Blood in the urine
- Strong odor to the urine
- Excessive licking of the genital area
- Pain or discomfort while urinating
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or depression
Not all pets will display all of these symptoms, and some may show no symptoms at all. If you suspect your pet has a urinary tract infection, it is important to seek veterinary care for proper diagnosis and treatment.
3. Dental Problems
Dental problems in dogs and cats can be quite serious and may lead to pain, discomfort, and even more severe health issues. Periodontal disease, in particular, is common in pets and can cause tooth loss, bone damage, and infections that can spread to other parts of the body. Good dental care, including regular cleanings and checkups, can help prevent these problems and ensure your pet stays happy and healthy.
Your dog or cat can’t tell you when they have a toothache, but you can look out for the following signs:
- Bad breath
- Loose or missing teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Difficulty eating or chewing
- Drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
- Inflammation or sores in the mouth
- Depression or lethargy
Not all pets will display all of these symptoms, and some may show no symptoms at all. If you suspect your pet has dental problems, it is important to seek veterinary care for proper diagnosis and treatment.
4. Skin Allergies
Skin allergies in dogs and cats can be quite serious and may lead to itching, scratching, and even severe infections. Allergies can be caused by a variety of factors, including food, pollen, and flea bites, making them difficult to diagnose and treat. If left untreated, skin allergies can severely impact your pet’s quality of life and may require ongoing management to prevent flare-ups.
Does your pet have allergies? Here are a few ways to tell:
- Constant scratching, licking or biting at the skin
- Red, inflamed or irritated skin
- Excessive shedding
- Hair loss
- Hot spots or sores
- Scabbing or crusting of the skin
- Ear infections
- Sneezing or coughing
- Runny nose or eyes
- Gastrointestinal problems, such as vomiting or diarrhea
Not all pets will display all of these symptoms, and some may show no symptoms at all. If you suspect your pet has skin allergies, it is important to seek veterinary care for proper diagnosis and treatment.
When to Visit a Vet for Pet Illnesses
If your pet is showing signs of illness, it is important to monitor their symptoms closely and seek veterinary care if they worsen or persist. In general, you should consider visiting a vet if your pet is exhibiting any of the following signs:
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
- Lethargy or lack of energy
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Lameness or limping
- Seizures or collapse
- Changes in behavior or mood
Remember, pets can’t tell us when they are feeling sick, so it is up to us as responsible pet owners to be aware of changes in their behavior and seek veterinary care when necessary.
When to Take Your Pet for Emergency Treatment
There may come a time when a scheduled trip to the vet can’t wait. Some pet illnesses are much more pressing than others. If your dog or cat is exhibiting any of the following symptoms, please take them to an emergency clinic:
- Severe bleeding, whether from an injury or underlying medical condition, can quickly become life-threatening if not addressed promptly. If your pet is bleeding heavily, seek veterinary care immediately.
- Difficulty breathing, such as gasping for air or choking, can indicate a serious respiratory problem that requires immediate treatment.
- Seizures or collapse can be a sign of a neurological emergency, and prompt veterinary care is critical to prevent further complications and provide the best possible outcome for your pet.
Remember, if you are ever unsure whether your pet’s symptoms constitute an emergency, it is always better to err on the side of caution and seek veterinary care.
Preventive Measures of Common Pet Illnesses
Preventive measures such as regular check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention can go a long way in helping to prevent common pet illnesses. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can catch potential health issues before they become serious, allowing for early treatment and intervention.
Vaccinations are an important part of preventive care, as they help protect against a range of diseases that can be deadly for pets. By vaccinating your pet, you can help prevent illnesses such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus.
Flea and tick prevention is also important, as these parasites can carry diseases that can be transmitted to your pet. By using flea and tick preventatives, you can help protect your pet from these diseases and prevent infestations in your home.
Regular grooming and dental care are also important preventive measures, as they can help prevent skin and coat issues, as well as dental problems that can lead to serious health issues.
Overall, incorporating preventive measures into your pet care routine can help keep your pet healthy and happy, and prevent many common illnesses and health issues.
Get Help with Common Pet Illnesses with Animal Care Center
If your pet is showing signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea, it is important to seek veterinary care right away. Delaying veterinary care can lead to more serious health issues and can ultimately result in a poorer prognosis for your pet.
Remember, as a pet owner, you are your pet’s advocate and it is up to you to ensure that they receive the care they need to stay healthy and happy. Please contact us at Main St Veterinarians for pet illnesses of all kinds.
