Spotting illness and finding a good vet

Animals often hide pain, so owners need to notice small changes and know when to call for help. This lesson is about recognising problems and choosing a vet, not treating animals yourself.

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Signs a pet may be in pain

• PDSA notes that some pets try to hide pain as much as they can.
• Signs PDSA lists include crying, rapid breathing, lying very still or rigid, protecting part of the body, growling or hissing when touched, tooth grinding (especially in rabbits) and wide pupils.
• If your pet seems to be in pain, contact your vet. PDSA says severe pain could be an emergency.
• Keep a simple note of what you saw and when: it helps the vet.

Emergencies: call a vet straight away

• PDSA lists emergencies including difficulty breathing, being unresponsive, a seizure, collapse, choking, heavy bleeding and possible broken bones.
• It also includes eating something toxic, being unable to urinate, a severe allergic reaction, and vomiting or diarrhoea lasting more than 24 hours.
• Stay calm and phone your vet first, then follow their instructions. PDSA's rule: if in doubt, take them to a vet as soon as possible.
• Keep yourself safe: PDSA warns that pets in pain may bite or lash out, even with people they love.
• Do not give food or water unless the vet advises it.

Never use human medicines

• PDSA vets warn that everyday human drugs can be fatal to pets if swallowed.
• PDSA says paracetamol is particularly toxic to cats, and reported fatal cases in dogs involving ibuprofen and naproxen (common painkillers).
• Never give a pet any human medicine; use medication only if a vet advises it.
• Store medicines and cleaning products locked away, as you would with young children in the house.
• If you think a pet has swallowed something toxic, call a vet urgently and take the packaging with you.

Choosing a good vet before you need one

• The American Veterinary Medical Association suggests choosing a vet before you get a pet, or as soon as you move.
• Ask about opening hours, how emergencies are handled during and after hours, and where the nearest emergency facility is.
• Look for a clean, orderly clinic with professional staff you feel comfortable talking to, and check the services offered (including exotic pets, if relevant).
• The UK Competition and Markets Authority suggests comparing prices for common services and asking who owns the practice.
• In the UAE, use licensed clinics; Dubai's registration system, for example, works through municipality or accredited private clinics.

Questions to ask at the vet

• Why is this treatment recommended, and are there alternatives? (The CMA encourages owners to ask.)
• How urgent is it, what is the likely outcome, and might more treatment be needed?
• What is the estimated cost? Treatment prices are usually estimates, not fixed prices.
• Can I get a written prescription and buy the medicine elsewhere?