Not all symptoms are created equal. Some pet issues can wait – others can’t. At BluePearl Sandy Springs, our emergency medical team sees the difference every day. If your dog or cat shows any of the symptoms below, head to the emergency vet right away.
1. Difficulty breathing.
Labored breathing, wheezing, or blue gums can mean serious respiratory trouble. This is always an emergency.
2. Seizures.
A single seizure may not be life-threatening, but repeated or prolonged seizures can quickly escalate. Bring your pet in if they have a seizure – especially if it lasts more than a minute or they don’t recover quickly.
3. Collapse or sudden weakness.
If your pet suddenly collapses or can’t stand, something is seriously wrong. Causes may include heart problems, internal bleeding, or heatstroke.
4. Uncontrolled bleeding.
Bleeding from the nose, mouth, or rectum – or any bleeding that won’t stop – needs immediate attention.
5. Vomiting or diarrhea with blood.
One episode of vomiting isn’t always urgent. But vomiting or diarrhea with blood – or ongoing episodes – signals a serious problem.
6. Bloating or distended abdomen.
A swollen stomach can be a sign of life-threatening bloat (also called gastric dilatation and volvulus), which is more common in large-breed dogs.
7. Straining to urinate or defecate.
If your pet is repeatedly straining or unable to pass urine or stool, this may indicate a blockage – especially dangerous in male cats.
8. Ingestion of toxins or foreign objects.
Call or come in immediately if you suspect your pet ate something toxic or poisonous (like chocolate, grapes, or medication) or swallowed a toy or bone.
When in doubt, call. Our team is here 24/7 at BluePearl Sandy Springs to help you decide if your pet needs emergency care.
Recognizing the signs of a pet emergencies at BluePearl Sandy Springs — FAQ.
If your dog or cat exhibits any of the following signs, it is crucial to seek emergency veterinary care at BluePearl Sandy Springs right away:
1. Difficulty Breathing
Labored breathing, wheezing, or the presence of blue gums can indicate serious respiratory issues. This is always considered an emergency and requires immediate attention.
2. Seizures
While a single seizure may not be life-threatening, repeated or prolonged seizures can escalate quickly. If your pet experiences a seizure lasting more than a minute or does not recover promptly, bring them in for evaluation.
3. Collapse or Sudden Weakness
A sudden collapse or inability to stand is a serious concern. This could be indicative of heart problems, internal bleeding, or heatstroke, all of which require urgent medical intervention.
4. Uncontrolled Bleeding
Any bleeding from the nose, mouth, or rectum that does not stop needs immediate veterinary attention. Uncontrolled bleeding can lead to severe complications.
5. Vomiting or Diarrhea with Blood
While occasional vomiting may not be urgent, the presence of blood in vomit or diarrhea—especially if it occurs repeatedly—signals a serious health issue that needs prompt evaluation.
6. Bloating or Distended Abdomen
A swollen abdomen can be a sign of a life-threatening condition known as bloat (gastric dilatation and volvulus), particularly common in large-breed dogs. This situation requires immediate care.
7. Straining to Urinate or Defecate
If your pet is straining to urinate or defecate, or is unable to do so, this may indicate a blockage. This is especially dangerous in male cats and requires urgent attention.
8. Ingestion of Toxins or Foreign Objects
If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic (such as chocolate, grapes, or medications) or has swallowed a foreign object like a toy or bone, call or visit us immediately.
When in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. If you are uncertain whether your pet's symptoms warrant emergency care, do not hesitate to contact BluePearl Sandy Springs. Our experienced team is available 24/7 to help you assess the situation and determine the best course of action for your pet's health.
Prompt action in a pet emergency can significantly impact the outcome for your furry friend. Many serious conditions can worsen rapidly without immediate care, leading to complications or even life-threatening situations. By recognizing the signs of an emergency and seeking help quickly, you can help ensure your pet receives the necessary treatment to recover effectively.
At BluePearl Sandy Springs, we provide urgent care for your pets when they need it most.
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