7 Signs Your Pet Needs an Emergency Vet Tonight

Pets are stoic, which makes emergencies hard to read. As an ER vet, I'd always rather see a healthy animal than miss a sick one. Here are the signs that mean don't wait.

• Difficulty breathing, blue or pale gums, or collapse
• Repeated unproductive retching or a swollen, hard belly (possible bloat)
• Inability to urinate, especially in male cats
• Suspected poisoning: chocolate, xylitol, medications, antifreeze, lilies
• Trauma such as a fall, a car, or a bite wound
• Seizures that don't stop or come in clusters
• Sudden inability to use the back legs

When it can probably wait until morning

A single episode of vomiting in an otherwise bright, playful dog, mild limping, or a small scrape can usually wait for your regular clinic. When in doubt, most ER hospitals will talk through symptoms with you over the phone.

“If you're asking yourself whether it's an emergency, that instinct is worth listening to. Call.”

Dr. Sofia Chen

Keep your nearest 24-hour hospital's number on your fridge before you ever need it. In a real emergency, minutes and a clear head matter more than anything.