10 Top Cat Emergencies

As a pet owner, nothing is more scary than seeing your furry friend in distress. Especially for cat parents, it can be tough to decipher what’s normal behavior and what signals an emergency. In this post, we’ll delve into the ten most common cat emergencies. If you suspect your cat may be experiencing a health crisis, please don’t hesitate to call Frontier Veterinary Urgent Care in Milwaukee, WI at (262) 226-2055 to make an appointment.

1. Urinary Obstruction

The first and arguably one of the most serious emergencies a cat can face is urinary obstruction. This condition primarily affects male cats and is characterized by difficulty urinating or complete inability to urinate. However, with certain conditions, female cats can also be affected.The cat might frequently visit the litter box, produce only small amounts of urine, vocalize due to pain, become lethargic and have episodes of vomiting. If left untreated, cats typically become recumbent and may experience seizures. Urinary obstruction is life-threatening and demands immediate veterinary attention.

2. Seizures

Cats can experience seizures due to various health conditions like brain tumors, brain infections, toxin ingestions/exposures and epilepsy. Seizures can be frightening to witness, with symptoms including sudden, uncontrolled shaking, loss of consciousness, or unusual behavior like frantic running or excessive drooling. It’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary care if your cat has a seizure.

3. Vomiting and Diarrhea

Although occasional vomiting or diarrhea might not be alarming, persistent or severe symptoms could signify a serious problem. Potential causes include dietary intolerance, ingestion of toxic substances, or illnesses like pancreatitis, kidney disease and diabetes. Be particularly vigilant if these symptoms are accompanied by other signs like lethargy, loss of appetite, or blood in the stool/vomit.

4. Difficulty Breathing

Difficulty breathing is another alarming symptom that requires immediate veterinary attention. It could be due to asthma, heart disease, a respiratory infection or even cancer. Any change in your cat’s normal breathing pattern, such as wheezing, coughing, or rapid breathing, should be taken seriously.

5. Trauma

Trauma, such as being hit by a car, falling from a height, or being attacked by another animal, is an undeniable emergency. Even if your cat appears fine after a traumatic event, internal injuries could still be present. It’s essential to have your cat examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible following a traumatic incident.

6. Poisoning

Cats are curious creatures and can ingest toxic substances, including certain plants, household cleaners, and medications. Signs of poisoning can vary widely but often include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect your cat has ingested a toxic substance, seek immediate veterinary care.

7. Severe Pain or Discomfort

Cats are masters at hiding their pain, so any overt signs of discomfort are cause for concern. Signs might include limping, difficulty jumping, excessive grooming, inappropriate urination or changes in behavior. If your cat is in severe pain, it’s essential to seek veterinary care immediately.

8. Eye Injuries

Cats’ eyes are delicate, and any injuries or abnormalities should be taken seriously. Symptoms can include redness, cloudiness, swelling, discharge, or apparent discomfort. Eye issues can escalate quickly, so it’s crucial to consult a vet right away.

9. Inappetence or Weight Loss

A decrease in appetite or rapid weight loss could indicate a serious health condition such as hyperthyroidism, liver disease, kidney disease, or cancer. It’s important to contact your vet if your cat has stopped eating or lost significant weight rapidly.

10. Uncontrolled Bleeding

Lastly, any form of uncontrolled bleeding warrants immediate veterinary attention. Whether it’s from the nose, mouth, or a wound, bleeding can signal a serious underlying issue and can quickly become life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

As a cat owner, your pet’s health and wellbeing are paramount. At Frontier Veterinary Urgent Care, we’re dedicated to providing top-tier care to all our feline patients in Milwaukee. If you notice any of these signs, please call us at (262) 226-2055 to make an appointment.