For every responsible pet parent, the health of their little furry friend is their top priority. That’s why they always strive for providing the safest environment that will help their companion live a long, happy and healthy life, as well as getting the right pet insurance that could cover all potential expenses.
Unfortunately, pets can suffer from mild or severe medical issues that can disrupt their physical and mental wellbeing and empty your pocket. This is why you need to make it your mission to learn how does pet insurance work, get one that best caters to your dog’s wellbeing, and figure out all of the possible red flags in your pet’s behavior that could indicate that something is wrong.
To help you along the way, we’ve compiled a list of five signs you should never ignore in your pet’s behavior.
Appetite changes
Loss of appetite in pets is one of the most common health-related issues you should watch out for. In most cases, this is an indication of an illness especially if your furry friend is showing others symptoms at the same time.
Other reasons why your companion may not be eating include dental disease, recent vaccination, behavioral issues or unfamiliar surroundings.
For example, lack of appetite in dogs is usually a sign of something causing pain or discomfort in their mouth such as a broken or loose tooth.
Whatever the case may be, it is important that you visit your vet to help you determine why your pet isn’t eating.
Loss of energy
The truth is pets usually spend their days playing, eating and walking. So, when they show increased signs of inactivity, then that is a red flag that something may be going on.
In general, most pet parents believe that weakness and sudden tiredness are common indicators of severe illnesses in pets. However, the occurrence of such lethargy can also be caused by many other things. These include sickness, trauma, poor reaction to medication, poisoning or a major change in the household.
For example, the last one usually occurs when there is a permanent absence of a family member which causes dogs or cats to start feeling depressed and lethargic.
Heavy breathing
Breathing troubles are another health-related issue pet owners should be on the lookout for. In most cases, this is characterized by gasping, choking or heavy panting which may be indicators that your companion is suffering from throat obstructions, heart problems, heatstroke or other dangerous problems.
For example, heatstroke in dogs is very common during the warmer months of the year when the temperatures are higher. That’s why pet parents should keep their pup away from direct exposure to the sun or locked in cars and always provide them with clean and fresh water to hydrate them.
Skin irritations
No matter if you have a Labrador Retriever or a Siberian cat, you are probably familiar with shedding. Although this is normal in most cases, it becomes a serious health issue if you notice whole patches of fur missing from your pet’s coat. One of the most common reasons for that may be a skin infection or parasite.
For example, ticks and fleas can affect your pet’s coat by biting and sucking their blood. This causes an allergic reaction that irritates your pet’s skin making them itch abundantly. If this isn’t treated on time, the coat can become seriously inflamed causing the fur to fall out in patches.
Behavioral changes
If you’ve had your pet for a while now, then you probably know what they are like and how they react to different things. However, if you notice sudden changes in their behavior, then that may be a sign of something more serious.
For example, canine cognitive disorder is a severe health condition that can occur in dogs. It is characterized by distinct behavior and personality changes such as confusion, anxiety, disorientation, restlessness and depression. Such pups may forget their housetraining and start having accidents in the house.
If you notice these signs, it is crucial that you immediately take them to the vet to start treatment.
Final thoughts
Unfortunately, pets can be subject to many medical conditions. Because they can’t use words to say when they aren’t feeling well, it is up to their owners to read the signs and help them in such situations. By acknowledging the issue on time, you are helping your furry companion and providing them with the proper treatment that will make them feel better and healthier.
So, make sure you are aware of these symptoms and be ready to take quick action when any problems arise.