As pet parents, it can be worrying when your furry companion seems unwell. While some ailments can be treated at home or with a simple visit to the vet, others require immediate and more intensive care. Understanding these common pet ailments that may lead to hospitalization can help you act quickly and ensure your pet gets the care they need.
Recognizing When Hospitalization May Be Necessary
Pets are excellent at hiding discomfort, but some symptoms indicate an urgent need for professional care. These include lethargy, labored breathing, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, seizures, or noticeable pain.
Common Ailments That May Require Hospitalization
Severe Gastrointestinal Issues
Blockages and Foreign Body Ingestion
Pets, especially dogs and cats, often swallow objects that can cause blockages in their intestines. Signs include vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain.
Insider Tip: X-rays and ultrasounds can quickly diagnose a blockage, and early intervention often prevents surgery.
Severe Diarrhea or Vomiting
Prolonged vomiting or diarrhea can lead to dehydration, requiring fluid therapy and observation in a hospital setting.
Respiratory Distress
Pets experiencing difficulty breathing, wheezing, or persistent coughing may have conditions like pneumonia, asthma, or even heart disease.
Insider Tip: Veterinary clinics use oxygen therapy to stabilize pets with breathing difficulties before diagnosing and treating the underlying issue.
Infections and Fever
Severe infections, whether bacterial, viral, or fungal, can escalate quickly. High fever, lethargy, and swelling are signs your pet may need hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics and supportive care.
Trauma and Injury
Fractures and Wounds
Accidents can lead to fractures, deep wounds, or internal injuries that require immediate surgical intervention and monitoring.
Shock or Blood Loss
If a pet is in shock or has significant blood loss, hospitalization ensures they receive fluids, transfusions, and round-the-clock care.
Chronic Conditions That Escalate
Kidney or Liver Failure
Chronic kidney or liver issues can flare up suddenly, leading to a crisis that requires hospitalization for stabilization and treatment.
Diabetes Complications
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to life-threatening conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, which requires intensive care and insulin therapy.
Neurological Emergencies
Seizures
While occasional seizures may not always require hospitalization, frequent or prolonged episodes often do, as they can indicate a more serious condition like epilepsy or poisoning.
Paralysis
Sudden paralysis, especially in the hind legs, can signal spinal injuries or conditions like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Immediate care is crucial.
The Role of Hospitalization in Pet Recovery
Hospitalization provides a controlled environment where pets receive 24/7 monitoring, pain management, and specialized treatments. This ensures they have the best chance of recovery, especially in life-threatening situations.
If your pets are in an emergency or if you have general inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact Veterinary Emergency Centre.
General Hotline: 2334-2334
24-Hour Emergency Hotline: 6828-6620
