Emergency Physical Exam for Pets: Signs Your Dog, Cat, or Pocket Pet Needs Immediate Care

When your pet is suddenly sick or injured, it can be difficult to determine whether the situation requires immediate emergency care or an urgent same-day veterinary visit. Recognizing the signs of a true emergency versus an urgent concern can mean the difference between life-saving treatment and unnecessary stress.

At High Point Animal Hospital, serving the DFW area, we provide care for dogs and cats. If you’re unsure about your pet’s condition, call us right away for guidance.

Recognizing an Emergency: When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care

Some situations require immediate, life-saving medical intervention. If your pet is experiencing any of the following, seek emergency veterinary care immediately:

1. Difficulty Breathing

Signs of respiratory distress:

  • Open-mouth breathing (especially in cats)
  • Gasping for air or wheezing
  • Blue or pale gums (a sign of oxygen deprivation)
  • Excessive coughing or choking
  • Rapid, labored breathing

Learn more about emergency pet care from the ASPCA.

2. Severe Bleeding or Trauma

Signs requiring immediate care:

  • Bleeding that doesn’t stop after five minutes of applied pressure
  • Deep wounds, bite injuries, or gunshot wounds
  • Limping or inability to walk after an injury
  • Head trauma (falling from heights, being hit by a car)

Even if bleeding appears controlled, internal injuries can be life-threatening.

Take a cat and dog first aid class with the American Red Cross.

3. Seizures or Collapse

Signs to watch for:

  • Uncontrollable shaking or convulsions
  • Loss of consciousness or collapse
  • Disorientation, head tilting, or inability to stand
  • Multiple seizures in a short period (cluster seizures)

Seizures can result from toxin exposure, heatstroke, or underlying neurological conditions. If your pet experiences a seizure lasting longer than two minutes, seek immediate veterinary care.

4. Poison Ingestion

Common toxins include:

  • Chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol (dogs)
  • Lilies (cats)
  • Avocado, chocolate, and caffeine (birds and small mammals)
  • Rodenticides, antifreeze, and household cleaners (all pets)

Signs of poisoning:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Drooling or foaming at the mouth
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Tremors or seizures

If you suspect poisoning, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately.

Urgent Concerns: When to Seek Same-Day Veterinary Care

Some conditions require prompt veterinary attention but may not be immediately life-threatening. If your pet experiences any of the following, contact us to schedule an urgent same-day visit.

1. Vomiting and Diarrhea

When it’s an emergency:

  • Vomiting multiple times in one hour
  • Vomit or diarrhea contains blood
  • Accompanied by lethargy or collapse

When it requires urgent care:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
  • Mild dehydration but still alert and active

2. Changes in Eating or Drinking Habits

When it’s an emergency:

  • Complete refusal to eat or drink for over 24 hours
  • Severe weight loss, lethargy, or dehydration

When to schedule a same-day appointment:

  • Loss of appetite lasting more than one day
  • Sudden increase in thirst and urination (could indicate diabetes or kidney disease)

3. Sudden Behavioral Changes

When it’s an emergency:

  • Aggression or unresponsiveness (may indicate pain or neurological issues)
  • Sudden paralysis or difficulty moving

When it requires urgent care:

  • Increased hiding, vocalization, or avoidance behaviors
  • Excessive licking or chewing at a specific area

How to Prepare for an Emergency Vet Visit

1. Stay Calm and Act Quickly

Pets can sense anxiety, so speak calmly and handle them gently while preparing for transport.

2. Call Ahead

If possible, call our team at High Point Animal Hospital so we can prepare for your arrival.

3. Safely Transport Your Pet

  • Dogs and Cats: Use a secure carrier or leash to prevent further injury.

Be Proactive: Schedule a Wellness Exam to Prevent Emergencies

Annual check-ups and preventive care can help catch early signs of illness before they become emergencies. Schedule a wellness visit today to ensure your pet stays healthy and happy.

Book an appointment at High Point Animal Hospital.