10 Signs Your Pet Needs to See the Vet
- Content Writer
- 9 hours ago
- 4 min read
Our pets can’t use words to tell us when they’re feeling unwell, which makes it all the more important for owners to understand the subtle signs of illness. While sudden or severe symptoms - like bleeding or collapse - clearly warrant immediate veterinary attention, many serious conditions begin with much milder changes that are easy to miss.
Whether you live with a bouncy puppy or a quietly independent senior cat, recognising early warning signs can make all the difference. Timely intervention often leads to better outcomes, less invasive treatment, and lower costs in the long run. Here are 10 signs that your pet may need to see a vet, including some that are frequently overlooked.
Contents
1. Changes in Appetite
A shift in how much your pet eats - whether more or less - shouldn’t be ignored. A reduced appetite might suggest dental pain, gastrointestinal discomfort, or even a systemic illness like kidney or liver disease. On the other hand, increased hunger may point to issues such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism, particularly in older cats. If your pet skips meals for more than 24 hours, or you notice any patterns in fussiness, it’s a good idea to check in with a vet.
2. Lethargy or Low Energy
It’s normal for pets to have off-days, especially during hot weather or after strenuous play. But if your pet becomes consistently less active, sleeps more than usual, or shows little interest in walks, toys, or food, this may be a sign of underlying illness. Conditions ranging from infections and anaemia to heart disease and hormonal imbalances can cause reduced energy levels. Owners know their pets best - so trust your instincts if something feels off.
3. Vomiting or Diarrhoea
A single bout of vomiting or a soft stool might not be cause for alarm, particularly if your pet has scavenged something unusual. But if either symptom persists beyond 24 hours, recurs frequently, or contains blood, veterinary attention is essential. Repeated vomiting and diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and indicate issues such as dietary intolerance, infections, parasites, or more serious gastrointestinal conditions like pancreatitis or obstructions.
4. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain
Weight fluctuations without dietary changes can be a key indicator of disease. Sudden weight loss could result from parasites, dental pain, chronic infection, organ dysfunction, or cancer. Conversely, unexplained weight gain or bloating might point to fluid retention, hormonal imbalances, or metabolic disorders. Regular weight checks - either at home or during vet visits - are a useful part of monitoring your pet’s health.
5. Changes in Drinking or Urination
Increased thirst or urination are common signs of diabetes, kidney disease, or urinary tract infections. These conditions often develop gradually, so changes may not be obvious right away. Watch for signs like empty water bowls, urinating indoors or outside the litter tray, straining to urinate, or discoloured urine. If you spot any of these, it's important to investigate early before complications arise.
6. Lumps, Bumps, or Sores
Not every lump is a cause for panic - some may be harmless fatty growths or cysts - but all new or changing masses should be examined by a vet. Skin lumps that increase in size, feel firm, or bleed are particularly concerning. Similarly, any sore or wound that doesn’t heal within a week may indicate infection or more serious skin conditions. A simple exam or biopsy can quickly clarify what’s going on.
7. Bad Breath or Dental Issues
While it’s easy to dismiss bad breath as just “dog breath” or “cat breath,” persistent halitosis can signal periodontal disease, which may cause pain, infection, and even impact internal organs. Drooling, pawing at the mouth, difficulty eating, or visible tartar build-up are also signs of dental problems. Dental health is often neglected, yet regular checks can greatly improve your pet’s quality of life.
8. Behavioural Changes
Sudden shifts in behaviour - such as increased aggression, anxiety, hiding, or restlessness - can be your pet’s way of expressing discomfort or distress. Pain, neurological conditions, hormonal changes, or even cognitive decline in older pets can all affect how they act. Behavioural changes are sometimes mistaken for mood swings, but they often have a medical basis. A professional check-up can help get to the root of the issue.
9. Persistent Coughing or Sneezing
Occasional sneezes or a brief cough may not raise alarms, but ongoing respiratory symptoms warrant closer attention. Kennel cough, upper respiratory infections, allergies, or even heart disease can all cause coughing in dogs. In cats, persistent sneezing may indicate viral infections or dental problems. If symptoms last more than a few days or are accompanied by discharge, breathing difficulty, or fatigue, seek veterinary advice.
10. Limping or Mobility Issues
Limping is not just a sign of a sprained paw. It can be linked to arthritis, ligament damage, fractures, or neurological conditions. Don’t assume your pet will “walk it off” - especially if the problem lasts more than a day or two, or if it gets worse with activity. Hesitation when jumping, stiffness after rest, or changes in gait should always prompt a vet check, especially in older pets.
When to Contact Us
If your pet is displaying any of the above signs, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Even minor symptoms can be early indicators of something more serious, and early treatment is often simpler, less invasive, and more effective.
📞 Call us on 020 8459 4729 or book an appointment online to have your pet thoroughly checked by our experienced team.
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