Did you know changes in your pet’s behavior can indicate serious medical problems?
If you haven’t heard it before, pets can tell us when something is wrong with them. So, as a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to trust your instincts. Animals display subtle changes in their behavior when something is off, and these signs can be the way to discover any underlying health problems. Keep in mind that even small changes can indicate a serious medical condition that can require immediate attention. If you recognize these signs early, you can make sure your furry friend will be taken care of no matter what the problem is.
As pet owners, we see our furry companions as part of the family. Unlike humans, pets can’t vocalize their illness and discomfort. They communicate in their own ways, and it’s absolutely essential to pay attention to the subtle changes in their behavior and habits. These small indicators will let you know something is off, and they can point to serious health issues that you can keep under control by offering your pet medical care on time.
These are some important signs that you shouldn’t ignore in your pet’s behavior
Heavy panting
Panting is something natural for pets; after they’ve been playing, running, or spending time in the heat, you need to see the difference between normal panting and something that can be concerning—this heavy panting. Regular panting helps them cool down or catch their breath after activity, but heavy panting is something deeper and more labored, plus it can last longer than usual.
If you notice this kind of panting, this is a sign that your pet might be in pain or distress. Heavy panting is a red flag for serious conditions such as heatstroke, heart issues, or even poisoning. It can point to conditions such as Cushing’s disease, known for affecting hormones. Moreover, it can indicate respiratory problems like pneumonia or something more complicated.
Your pet panting out of the ordinary should be a sign to seek veterinary care immediately, as early intervention could be crucial in these moments to prevent any condition from worsening.
Excessive water consumption
After your pet plays, have fun, especially on a warm day; it’s quite common to see them lapping up water. If you notice how your pet repeatedly returns to the water bowl over an extended period, take note.
Polydipsia, or excessive thirst, can signal serious issues and conditions, like diabetes mellitus, kidney failure, or Cushing’s disease. In female dogs, it can signal conditions such as pyometra—an infection of the uterus that is usually linked to excessive drinking. Psychogenic polydipsia can be another, less common cause, and this one is related more to behavior issues than physical illness.
Thirst can also be a side effect of certain medications, so if your pet started a new treatment, you can consider this as well. Panting heavily can also lead to increased water consumption because they try to rehydrate.
If you observe your pet drinking excessively and this comes accompanied by other symptoms, it’s essential to consult your vet. Moreover, it’s important to provide good quality water for your pet, so use special fountains for them and regularly change the filters. You can find the filters in packages of 6 or more and this is our suggestion: Filters for 3L Pet Water Fountain, Pack of 6, White
Drooling
Especially when it comes to dog breeds such as boxers, bloodhounds, Sait Bernards, or mastiffs, drooling is a part of the package. But if you notice your pet starts drooling suddenly or excessively, this is a sign that something is off.
Drooling in excess can indicate a serious issue like heatstroke, and this can happen after intense exercise or during hot weather. This can also point to dental problems like tooth abscess or periodontitis, causing significant discomfort or pain.
If your pet has chewed on something that burned or irritated their mouth, this can trigger excessive drooling. Toxic plants can be a potential cause, and this is why you need to know and recognize the plants that are harmful to pets. You can use this article as a guide: Pet-Friendly Plants and Garden Choices.
Drooling situations can be linked to neurological issues that affect how the brain controls bodily functions. So, if you notice a change or an increase in your pet’s drooling, accompanied by other symptoms as well, like vomiting, lethargy, or difficulty eating, consult your veterinarian immediately. Intervention on time will make a significant difference in your pet’s well-being.
Behavior changes
Is your pet acting differently lately? A shift in your pet’s behavior can be a significant red flag, and this could manifest as being more aggressive, having mood swings or increased hyperactivity, anxiety or fearfulness, submissiveness or sudden seizures, or a noticeable lack of activity. Maybe your pet doesn’t play with their toys anymore or they are getting isolated in another room; maybe you see them struggling to find a comfortable position or showing a decrease in appetite.
These changes may come from their discomfort or pain, as they can’t express it in words. Various medical conditions can cause these shifts in their behavior. For example, you can think about thyroid dysfunction in dogs or hyperthyroidism in cats. These conditions can lead to heavy behavior and mood changes. Other causes can include pancreatitis, arthritis, cancer, parasites or skin allergies, heart disease, or even injuries that they might be hiding.
Paying attention to these behavior changes can indicate serious health issues. If your pet screams out of sorts, you should consult with your vet. They will help you determine the cause and help you with an appropriate course of action, making sure your pet receives the right care to be comfortable and happy again.
Odor change
Yes, the bad breath of your pet is a normal part of growing up, and it’s easy to brush it off. However, remember that healthy pets shouldn’t have bad odors. So, if you notice a change in your pet’s smell, like bad breath, smelling ears, or noxious gas, this can indicate an underlying issue.
Persistent bad breath can indicate dental disease, diabetes, kidney failure, or even an oral tumor. If your pet’s odor suddenly changes to a particularly foul odor, it’s important to have them evaluated by a vet. Musky smell coming from their ears, for example, suggests an ear infection, requiring medical treatment.
Unpleasant odors coming from their skin, if it’s also accompanied by itchiness, skin lesions, or flaking might indicate allergies, bacterial or yeast infections, or a skin condition called seborrhea. These are conditions that require veterinary interventions for proper care.
Another thing you should pay attention to is frequent gas that can indicate gastrointestinal and dietary problems. Any of these changes in odor represent a call to see a veterinarian. Keep in mind that early detection is the key to addressing potential health concerns, and keeping your furry friend comfortable and healthy.
Recognizing when something is wrong can make a difference in our pet’s health and well-being. These signs should never be overlooked, and understanding the potential meanings behind the subtle signs is an incredible advocate for your pet’s health.
Additional tips to maintain your pet healthy:
- Schedule annual or biannual check-ups to catch potential issues early.
- Keep track of any change in their behavior, appetite, and habits to share it with a vet.
- Familiarize yourself with your pet’s normality and preferences to be able to spot abnormalities quickly.
- Educate yourself about common issues that can appear in your pet’s breed and age.
- Recognize the signs of common emergencies and always keep your vet’s contact information handy for urgent situations.
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