Recognizing Illness in Pets: Important Signs to Look Out For
by PetsDrugMart

Mom - my tummy hurts! Dad - my nose is stuffy! Parents may be used to these common complaints of illness, but unfortunately for pet parents, our pets can’t tell us when something is wrong or where it hurts. Not only that, but it is part of their animal instinct to hide if they are injured or sick to avoid being vulnerable to predators. Despite this, by monitoring your pet and noting any changes in their behaviour, body language, or appearance you can help catch early warning signs of illness. We’ve outlined a few of the most common traits to look out for to prevent sickness below. If you notice any of these changes, please consult your vet to determine the cause and course of action.

Changes in Eating Habits

It is crucial to monitor your pet’s eating habits daily so you can easily recognize any changes. A sudden loss or increase in appetite can be an early warning sign something is wrong - whether it's a digestive issue, pain, or an illness. If you notice a change in eating habits, it is important to visit your vet to determine the cause. The solution could be as simple as adding a supplement like Greywolf Pro Care + GI to their diet to get their gut bacteria back to healthy levels and improve their immune system, or could require further investigation with your vet.

Unusual or Uncharacteristic Tiredness

Your pet may already sleep the majority of the day, so no need to be alarmed. What to keep watch for is uncharacteristic changes in their energy - unusual tiredness, low energy, or reluctance to play or exercise in ways they used to enjoy. This is often an indicator that a pet is not feeling well. Consult your vet before adding supplements, but sometimes low energy can be related to nutrient deficiencies. Supplements like Crocx Hemp Supplement for Healthy Animals may have a positive impact on your cat or dog’s energy levels by reducing joint pain, supporting metabolism, and boosting immune system health - getting them up and playing again!

Behavioural Changes

You know your pet best - that’s why it’s key for you to take note of changes in their behaviour. Withdrawal, hiding, increased aggression or irritability, or restlessness can signal pain or discomfort in pets which is important to catch early on. If your pet is exhibiting signs of fear, anxiety, and distress, this could be a warning sign of something bigger going on. Some pets exhibit these behaviours when they’re experiencing separation anxiety. If you think this may be the case with your pet, the solution could be as simple as a pheromone diffuser like Adaptil Calm Dog Appeasing Pheromone or a calming supplement like NaturPet Be Calm, which are proven to help reduce stress and anxiety in pets.

Changes in Natural Functions

Keep an eye out for general physical or functional changes in your pets body, such as sudden weight increase/decrease, vomiting, changes in stool, difficulty breathing, or issues with skin & coat health to ensure your pet lives a long, happy life. If these problems are chronic or persistent, be sure to visit the vet for more guidance. If medication is needed, you can always ask your vet to fax the prescription to PetsDrugMart for a lower cost, home-delivery pet medication option.

As always, if you notice something off about your pet, please consult with your vet before using any of the products mentioned above. The most important thing is early detection, which can greatly increase the chances of a favourable outcome.

If you’re ready to incorporate medication or supplements into your pet’s healthcare regimen, we’re here to help - and please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about a product including supplements, medication, or treatments.