Common Signs Your Pet is Sick and What to Do

Common Signs Your Pet is Sick and What to Do

As pet owners, we share a bond with our furry, feathered, or scaly companions that goes beyond words. They might not be able to tell us when they’re feeling off, but they certainly communicate in other ways—through behavior, appearance, and energy levels.

Knowing what signs to watch for and how to respond can make all the difference in your pet’s well-being. Let’s dive into some common signs of illness in pets, backed by research, and explore how you can act quickly to keep your best friend happy and healthy.  

1. Sudden Changes in Appetite or Thirst

One of the most noticeable signs of sickness in pets is a sudden change in how much they eat or drink. If your dog or cat skips meals for more than a day or starts drinking water excessively, it could be a sign of:  

• Diabetes (common in middle-aged and older cats and dogs).  
• Kidney disease (often indicated by increased thirst).  
• Dental pain (if eating becomes too painful).  

Stats to note: According to a 2020 study by Banfield Pet Hospital, about 1 in 300 dogs and 1 in 230 cats develop diabetes, with cases rising every year.  

What to Do:

• Monitor food and water intake daily.  
• Consult your vet if your pet refuses food for more than 24 hours or is drinking far more than usual.  
• Never restrict water intake without veterinary advice, even if they’re drinking excessively.  

2. Lethargy or Decreased Activity

Is your playful pup suddenly snoozing all day? Or is your usually spry cat hiding in corners? Lethargy can indicate anything from mild discomfort to serious illnesses like infections or heart disease.  

Fun Fact: Dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day, but if they seem uninterested in walks or toys they usually love, take it seriously.  

What to Do:  

• Check for other symptoms, like a fever or coughing.  
• Record how long the lethargy persists.  
• Schedule a vet visit, especially if lethargy lasts more than two days or is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, or other signs.  

3. Vomiting or Diarrhea

An upset stomach happens to all pets at some point, but frequent vomiting or diarrhea can indicate something more serious, such as:  

• Ingesting a foreign object.  
• Parasites (e.g., roundworms or hookworms).  
• Food allergies  
• Serious conditions like pancreatitis or liver disease.  

Did you know? About 23.9% of dogs and 45.6% of cats experience digestive issues at some point in their lives, as reported in a 2021 study by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).  

What to Do:  

• Keep your pet hydrated—diarrhea and vomiting can lead to rapid dehydration.  
• Try a bland diet for 24 hours (plain boiled chicken and rice).  
• Contact your vet if symptoms last more than 24 hours, include blood, or your pet seems distressed.  

4. Persistent Coughing or Wheezing

While coughing can sometimes be as harmless as clearing their throat, a persistent cough is a red flag for:  

• Kennel cough (especially in dogs who frequent parks or daycare).  
• Heartworms, a preventable but severe condition.  
• Respiratory infections or allergies   

What to Do:  

• Isolate your pet if you suspect kennel cough, as it’s highly contagious.  
• Avoid strenuous exercise, which can worsen respiratory distress.  
• Seek veterinary advice promptly for wheezing, coughing that lasts more than a day, or signs of labored breathing.  

5. Changes in Bathroom Habits 

If your pet is straining to urinate, having accidents indoors, or you notice changes in their stool, it could point to:  

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) 
• Bladder stones or blockages, especially in male cats.  
• Constipation, which might be caused by diet or underlying issues.  

Important Note: Male cats are especially prone to life-threatening urinary blockages. This is an emergency requiring immediate attention.  

What to Do:  

• Keep track of your pet’s bathroom schedule.  
• Increase water intake with wet food or pet-safe hydration supplements.  
• Get to the vet immediately if your pet seems unable to urinate.  

6. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain

A pet losing or gaining weight without a diet change is cause for concern. Possible causes include:  

• Hyperthyroidism (common in older cats).  
• Hypothyroidism (common in middle-aged dogs).  
• Cancer or other chronic conditions.  

Stat to Watch: According to the ASPCA, 60% of cats and 56% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight, and weight gain often masks other health issues.  

What to Do:  

• Schedule a wellness check if you notice sudden weight changes.  
• Discuss dietary adjustments with your vet to maintain a healthy weight.  

7. Behavioral Changes

Is your friendly dog suddenly growling, or is your cuddly cat hiding all day? Behavioral shifts can signal:  

• Pain or discomfort (e.g., arthritis).  
• Stress or anxiety (common during changes in the home).  
• Neurological issues, such as seizures or dementia.  

Tip: Pets express pain differently—dogs may whine, while cats may become unusually quiet or aggressive.  

What to Do:  

• Offer a safe, quiet space for stressed pets.  
• Avoid punishing unusual behavior, as it may worsen anxiety.  
• Consult a vet for a physical exam and behavior recommendations.  

8. Skin Issues: Scratching, Redness, or Hair Loss

Skin problems are common but can be complex. Signs like constant scratching, redness, or bald spots may point to:  

• Allergies (seasonal or food-related).  
• Parasites(fleas, ticks, or mites).  
• Infections, including ringworm (contagious to humans).  

Flea Stats: One flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day, which is why infestations can spiral out of control.  

What to Do:  

• Check for fleas and ticks using a fine-tooth comb.  
• Bathe your pet with a vet-approved shampoo.  
• Get veterinary help for persistent symptoms or sores.  

When in Doubt, Trust Your Instincts

As a pet owner, you know your pet best. If something feels off, trust your gut and consult a vet. It’s always better to overreact than to wait too long.  

Proactive Steps to Keep Your Pet Healthy

1. Routine Checkups: Annual wellness exams can catch issues early.  
2. Vaccinations: Stay on schedule for core and non-core vaccines.  
3. Preventative: Regular flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives are a must.  
4. Healthy Diet: Feed high-quality food tailored to your pet’s breed, size, and age.  
5. Exercise: Keep them active for physical and mental stimulation.  

Caring for a pet is a two-way street: they offer love and companionship, and it’s our job to keep them healthy and thriving. By staying alert to the signs of illness and taking quick action, you’re giving them the best possible care—and the happy, healthy life they deserve.  

How’s your pet feeling today?