Our pets are obvious about their joy, love, and affection, but can be masters of disguise about their pain and discomfort. Because they mask their pain, you must watch closely for any changes in their physical and emotional health, such as suddenly sleeping more or less, hiding, and uncharacteristic aggression. 

Our Williamsburg Animal Clinic team wants you to recognize changes in your pet so we can address and treat the problem early and get your pet back on their paws quickly.

1: Your pet is eating or drinking more or less

A pet’s sudden increase or decrease in appetite and thirst can signal various health issues. Some fluctuations are normal—for example, your dog had a vigorous day at the park and gobbles down their food and wants to eat more, because they are extra-hungry after the extra exercise. 

Your pet will likely drink more on hot days, with or without the usual physical exertion. However, if they persistently change their eating or drinking habits, they may have dental problems, digestive issues, or an underlying condition such as diabetes or kidney disease.

2: Unintentional weight loss or gain in your pet

Unexplained weight loss or gain in pets is concerning, because they can indicate metabolic problems, thyroid issues, or sometimes cancer. To better gauge your furry pal’s weight, monitor their food intake daily and their weight weekly, and discuss sudden changes with our Williamsburg Animal Clinic team.

3: Your pet is sluggish and disinterested in play

If your pet is always up for a game or walk, but abruptly lacks enthusiasm, a health condition may be underpinning this behavior change. Lethargy could signal pain, infection, or illness. Pets are experts at hiding discomfort, so any noticeable change in their behavior warrants veterinary attention. 

4: Your pet is urinating more or straining to eliminate

Your pet’s bathroom habits are not fun to talk about, but they can tell you a lot about their health status. Increased urination or straining to urinate can be side effects of diabetes, kidney disease, or urinary tract infections or blockages, while decreased urination may indicate dehydration or an underlying problem such as renal issues.

5: Respiratory issues are causing your pet distress

Coughing, wheezing, gagging, or difficulty breathing are red flags that may indicate a veterinary emergency. Respiratory distress or troubling breathing can be related to severe conditions, such as respiratory infections, heart disease, asthma, or choking, and require immediate veterinary care.

6: Your pet is vomiting or their diarrhea won’t subside

Occasional vomiting or diarrhea in pets is normal and often related to stomach upset or food sensitivity. However, persistent or bloody episodes could indicate gastrointestinal issues, poisoning, or infectious diseases and your pet needs prompt attention.

7: Your pet’s behavior has changed

Any significant changes in your pet’s behavior, such as aggression, anxiety, confusion, or disorientation, should be investigated by our Williamsburg Animal Clinic team. Your pet’s behavior says a lot about how they feel and unusual behavior or personality changes can be the result of serious discomfort, pain, or neurological problems.

8. Your pet’s skin and coat quality have changed

Scratching, biting, hair loss, or skin or coat changes could be signs of allergies, parasites, or infections. Our team should always look into an oily or dull coat, increased dandruff, and matted fur, especially in cats, who are fastidious self-groomers. 

9: Your pet has difficulty eating or swallowing

If your pet is reluctant to eat, chewing on one side of the mouth, or struggling to swallow, dental problems, oral tumors, or other mouth or throat issues could be the reason. A GI tract obstruction can also cause difficulty to swallow. 

10: New lumps or bumps on your pet’s skin

Our veterinarian should evaluate new or growing lesions, bumps, or swellings on your pet’s body. While most growths are benign, early detection and treatment offer a better success rate should they be cancerous. 

You hate to see changes in your four-legged friend’s health and behavior, but staying vigilant and responsive is paramount. If you ignore subtle signs, hoping they will go away, a delayed diagnosis and treatment can be serious and sometimes life-threatening. But, regular veterinary check-ups, preventive care, and prompt attention to the health concerns above can help ensure your pet leads a long, healthy life. 

If you’ve noticed changes in your pet, do not hesitate to contact the Williamsburg Animal Clinic team, where your pet is always in good hands.