What is a true emergency?
The following should be considered a true emergency and requires immediate attention:
- Difficulty breathing with a blue colored tongue
- Swollen/bloated abdomen especially associated with vomiting, retching or extreme listlessness
- Repeated attempt to urinate in cat without any urine produced
- Repeated vomiting
- A broken bone
- Traumas such as being hit by a car, falling from a height or experiencing blunt force, even if the animal is not showing any ill effects.
- Collapse/inability to stand or walk
- Loss of balance or consciousness, convulsion, or seizure activity.
- Penetrating wounds, such as bite wounds, gunshot, or stab wounds.
- Bleeding that does not stop within 5 minutes (apply pressure using a clean cloth while on your way.)
- Vomiting or diarrhea with blood
- Heatstroke: heavy panting, weakness, temperature greater than 104 degrees
- Ingestion of toxins. Common pet toxins include but not limited to:
- Chocolate
- Rat poisons (D-con)
- Prescription, over the counter or illegal drugs (BRING THE CONTAINER WITH YOU)
- Artificial sweeteners (e.g. xylitol)
- Nicotine
- Household cleaners
- Antifreeze
- Certain household plants (e.g. Easter Lilies)