Common Pet Illnesses and When to See the Veterinarian

As a pet owner in the Edmond area, we know it can be scary when your pet is sick. There are many common pet illnesses out there that are not cause for alarm. It is essential to know the signs of the most common problems as well as knowing when the issue may require immediate care from a veterinarian.

Itchy skin

Itchy skin is one of the most common ailments we see pets brought to our office. It can be caused by various factors, including fleas, mites, or even dry skin. If the pet is constantly scratching its skin, it can lead to infection, hair loss, and sores. It is best to bring the pet in for treatment.

Ear Problems

Ear infections are also a common ailment that pets come to the vet for treatment. If you see your pet shaking or scratching its head, it could be a sign of an ear infection. Ear infections can be caused by many reasons, including parasites, and can be painful. If you suspect your pet has an ear infection and it doesn't go away in a day or two, make an appointment to see the vet.

Eye infection

There are a wide range of causes of eye infections in pets, including, a virus, bacteria, parasites, or even trauma. No matter the cause, an eye infection should be looked at by a vet immediately. If an eye infection is left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body and lead to vision loss.

Vomit

A pet vomiting once or twice should not be cause for immediate concern as it might have just eaten something that didn't sit right. It is essential to look for other symptoms that may indicate a severe condition that needs immediate medical attention. Symptoms can include blood in the vomit, lethargy, loss of appetite, and weight loss.

Diarrhea

Like vomiting, diarrhea can be normal, and there is no need for immediate concern, especially if your pet is acting normal. However, if your pet is also vomiting, there is blood in the stool, or the pet has reduced urination, it might be time to call the vet.

Pet Allergies

Just like people, pets suffer from allergies. Allergies usually mean the pet’s skin will become irritated, and they will continuously be scratching. Allergies can be caused by many factors, including the pet’s environment or diet. Since allergies can cause significant discomfort, you should seek veterinary care.

Pet Arthritis

As a pet starts to age, you might notice that it will begin to find it harder to move around. It may be a sign that the pet has arthritis. We can work with you to come up with some exercises to help manage your pet’s arthritis.

If you have any questions about your pet’s medical care, reach out to us at Danforth Animal Hospital. We proudly serve the Edmond area.