10 Pet Health Signs You Should Never Ignore

1. Persistent lethargy

If your pet is unusually tired or lacks energy for more than a day or two, they may have an underlying health issue. While pets do have their lazy days, especially after an exciting activity or a busy weekend, prolonged lethargy could indicate problems such as chronic pain, metabolic conditions, heart disease, or other serious conditions.

2. Excessive thirst or urination

Increased thirst or frequent urination can signal several health issues, including diabetes, kidney disease, and urinary tract infections. If your pet is drinking more water than usual, urinating more often, or having accidents in the home, consult your veterinarian.

3. Unexplained weight loss or gain

Significant weight changes can indicate a range of health issues, including metabolic disorders, intestinal parasites, cancer, and hormone-related problems. These changes may or may not be associated with appetite changes (e.g., your pet is eating more, but losing weight). Monitor your pet’s weight regularly at home by feeling their ribs and spine and have them evaluated should their weight suddenly increase or decrease.

4. Appetite changes

Although your pet’s appetite may normally vary, a sudden decrease or increase can indicate pain, dental discomfort, illness, or hormonal imbalance. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if your pet stops eating, becomes unusually picky, or is suddenly ravenous. Notify your veterinarian about any additional signs, such as digestive upset, drooling, or lethargy.

5. Persistent coughing or sneezing

Occasional coughing or sneezing is normal for pets, but persistent coughing or sneezing can signal infections, allergies, foreign objects, tracheal injury, or cardiovascular problems. Contact your veterinarian if your pet’s coughing or sneezing continues for an extended period, includes mucus-like discharge, or is accompanied by other signs, such as itching, difficulty breathing, or lethargy.

6. Limping, stiffness, or reluctance to jump or use stairs

Watch for the following changes in your pet’s mobility:

• Trouble walking or rising
• Limping
• Unusual stiffness
• Avoiding certain activities, such as playing, jumping up or down, or climbing stairs

These changes may indicate pain from a joint or soft tissue injury, arthritis, or a chronic joint condition, such as hip or elbow dysplasia. Protect your pet from further injury or inflammation by scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian.

7. Unusual skin issues

Changes in your pet’s skin, such as lumps, bumps, rashes, hair loss, or persistent itching, should not be ignored. These changes can be caused by a variety of mild to serious conditions, such as allergies, skin infections, and external parasites, to hormone-related disorders and certain cancers. Any new or unusual skin changes should be examined by your pet’s veterinarian.

8. Bad breath

Despite popular opinion, bad breath is not normal for dogs and cats. Instead, bad breath commonly indicates problems such as dental disease, diabetes, or kidney disease. It’s critical to address consistently foul or unusual-smelling breath, as it may indicate a dental problem or systemic disease.

9. Vomiting or diarrhea

Occasional vomiting or diarrhea might not be a cause for concern, but there may be a more serious underlying cause if the problem persists for more than a day or is severe. Additionally, ongoing vomiting or diarrhea can lead to dehydration, especially in puppies, kittens, and older or ill pets. When in doubt, have your pet checked out.

10.  Behavior or personality changes

Unusual behavior changes, such as aggression, irritability, hiding, attention-seeking, hyperactivity, disorientation, or excessive vocalization, can indicate pain, stress, or illness. If your pet’s behavior or personality changes drastically, consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues. Don’t attempt training or behavior modification until you have addressed this sign with your veterinarian.

Knowing your pet involves more than recognizing their favorite toy, treat, or spot on the couch—it also involves monitoring their health and behavior for concerning pet health signs. Observing your dog or cat for the signs listed above and maintaining regular veterinary care can help you catch potential health problems early, ensuring better outcomes and a longer, happier life. Consult your AAHA-accredited veterinarian for a personalized understanding of your pet’s health.