5 Questions About Pet Emergencies

5 Questions About Pet Emergencies Answered by Durham and Chapel Hill Emergency Veterinarian

Should you call your emergency veterinarian in Durham and Chapel Hill or not?  Here our vet answers 5 questions about pet emergencies.

How Can I Tell if My Pet is in Pain?

Sometimes this is easy if your pet is vocal, but often, pets hide their distress, especially cats, their instinctive way to protect themselves from predators. Some indications of pain include restlessness, agitation, panting, shaking or trembling, and possibly aggression. If your pet behaves in any type of peculiar manner, contact our emergency vet in Durham and Chapel Hill immediately.

Are Seizures an Emergency?

Seizures are caused by electrical impulses in the brain that have gone awry and can be caused by tumors, epilepsy, brain swelling, diabetes, or dehydration. All of these conditions can be life-threatening and require immediate intervention by our veterinarian.

What if My Pet is Bleeding?

Bleeding often stops by itself or when you put pressure on the wound. If, however, the bleeding continues for more than 5 minutes, your pet requires immediate treatment from our emergency veterinarian. If your pet bleeds from his or her nose, mouth, rectum, coughs up blood or has blood in the urine, these are also serious conditions that require treatment from our vet.

What Foods Are Toxic?

Chocolate is a notorious culprit and potentially lethal substance for pets, especially dark chocolate. Raisins and grapes are extremely toxic and can result in death. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in candies and gum is life-threatening when ingested, resulting in liver failure. If you suspect your pet has eaten any of these foods, bring him to our emergency vet without delay.

When is Vomiting and/or Diarrhea an Emergency?

All pets get a stomach upset at one time or another, but sometimes it becomes a matter for immediate veterinary care. When it lasts more than 24 hours or the pet’s retching is extremely severe and is accompanied by fever or disorientation, these symptoms warrant emergency care from a veterinarian.

Whenever in doubt, bring your pet to our emergency veterinarian in Durham and Chapel Hill. We welcome your calls, questions, and visits. You can contact us at: 919-490-2000