Pet Health Signs:

When it comes to health, both humans and their pets respond similarly to disease and ailments. Our pets’ bodies respond to illnesses in a fashion similar to ours. When they are young, the pet health issues they face are very different from the ones they experience when they are older. An experienced vet can help you deal with most of the ailments that your pets have. However, in order to know whether it is time to take your pet to the vet or not, it is important that you know of the symptoms of ill health in your pets. There are many reasons why your pet may fall sick. Here’s what you should keep an eye out for.

• Fitness levels: Depending on your pet’s age, the daily activity levels may differ. Just like people, pets also have different temperaments and different levels of activity. However, their fitness largely depends on their age and their breed. Recent research has shown that dogs that become overweight are more susceptible to different disorders.
• Observe closely whether your pet is gaining or losing weight. If your pet is getting older, it is important to observe whether they are able to maintain their normal activities. There may be a health problem if you see your pet struggling to sit down, get up, climb the stairs, or leap. It is okay if their movements have slowed down because of old age, otherwise it is time to take your pet to the doctor.
• Diarrhea and Vomiting: Your pet may vomit if they have a stomach upset or have eaten something they shouldn’t have. A one time episode of diarrhea or vomiting is normal and could mean that the pet’s body is getting itself used to the change in food or weather. However, if your pet is vomiting or passing loose stools repeatedly, this could be a symptom of an illness.
• Scratching Excessively: Though pets may scratch themselves occasionally to get rid of an itch, if they are scratching vigorously and continuously, it could be because of a parasitic infestation. Fleas, ticks and other parasites can easily attack your pet. Also get your pet checked for any bacterial, viral or yeast infections. These infections are easier to spot since they cause inflammation of the skin, redness or loss of hair in patches.
• Inability to eat: Inability to eat is another symptom that you should look out for. If your pet does not seem interested in its food or is unable to eat, get it checked thoroughly. This could be a sign of a serious ailment.