Our pets can’t tell us when something feels wrong—but they do give us clues. At Companion Care, we believe that understanding your pet’s subtle signals can make the difference between a minor issue and a serious health emergency.
Here’s what every pet parent should know.
1. Changes in Appetite or Water Intake
A sudden drop—or increase—in how much your pet eats or drinks is often the first red flag. Skipping meals or drinking excessively can be early signs of dental pain, kidney disease, diabetes, or gastrointestinal issues.
2. Lethargy or Unusual Fatigue
If your energetic dog becomes uninterested in play or your cat sleeps more than usual, don’t just assume they’re tired. Persistent lethargy may point to infections, organ dysfunction, or pain.
3. Weight Changes
Unexplained weight gain or loss can indicate thyroid problems, metabolic disorders, or even cancer. Monitor your pet’s body condition monthly, and bring up changes during their wellness exam at Companion Care.
4. Bad Breath or Drooling
Dental disease is extremely common, especially in older pets. Bad breath, difficulty chewing, or excessive drooling are not just “normal” quirks—they may mean your pet is in pain.
5. Vomiting or Diarrhea
A single incident may not be cause for alarm. But repeated vomiting or diarrhea, or any sign of blood, requires prompt attention. Parasites, food intolerances, or more serious conditions could be at play.
6. Behavioral Shifts
Is your friendly cat hiding all the time? Is your dog snapping or growling out of the blue? Pain, stress, and illness often cause behavioral changes. Trust your instinct—no one knows your pet better than you do.
7. Coughing, Sneezing, or Breathing Changes
Respiratory symptoms might indicate allergies, infections, or even heart disease. Pay attention to wheezing, labored breathing, or constant coughing, especially in older pets.
What to Do if You Notice a Symptom
Don’t wait for things to “get better.” Early intervention often means simpler treatment and less suffering for your pet—not to mention lower costs for you. Book an appointment with our team at Companion Care so we can assess your pet’s condition and recommend the best next steps.
Prevention Is Powerful
Many of these conditions can be caught early—or even avoided—with regular wellness checkups. Ask us about our Wellness Plans, designed to keep your pet healthy year-round with preventive care, screenings, and personalized attention.
Your pet’s health starts with you. Let Companion Care Animal Hospital be your trusted partner in keeping them happy, healthy, and thriving.
