If your pet has collapsed, stopped breathing, has a distended abdomen with retching, or is having prolonged seizures -- call an emergency vet or drive there immediately. Every minute matters.
Emergency Symptom Quick Reference
- • Difficulty breathing / open-mouth breathing in cats
- • Bloat: distended abdomen + retching without vomiting
- • Seizures lasting over 3 minutes or cluster seizures
- • Male cat straining with no urine output
- • Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness
- • Suspected poisoning / toxin ingestion
- • Pale or white gums (oxygen deprivation)
- • Major trauma, deep wound, uncontrolled bleeding
- • Sudden eye pain, cloudiness, or vision change
- • Repeated vomiting (more than 3 times)
- • Blood in vomit or stool
- • Inability to walk or sudden severe lameness
- • Cat not eating for over 24 hours
- • Single seizure (fully recovered, but still same day)
- • Suspected broken bone
- • Signs of extreme pain (crying, trembling, hunched posture)
What to Do in the First 10 Minutes
Take 10 seconds to identify the primary symptom. Is your pet breathing? Conscious? In immediate distress?
An advance call lets the ER team prepare for your arrival -- they may have equipment or medications ready. You'll also get triage guidance over the phone.
Wrap in a towel or blanket. Minimize movement, especially for suspected fractures or internal injuries.
The ER team needs to know exactly what was ingested and in what quantity. Bring the container or take a photo of the label.
Never give human pain medications (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin) to dogs or cats -- they can be fatal.
Search for your nearest 24/7 emergency vet now and save the number. ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435. Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. These helplines charge a consultation fee but can provide critical guidance.