As a pet parent, it can be challenging to know when a problem warrants a trip to the emergency room. Cats and dogs can display a wide range of signs, some serious and some minor. Knowing which situations require immediate veterinary attention versus those that can wait for a primary care visit can make all the difference in your pet’s health and safety.

Remember, every pet is unique. This list can’t cover every situation, and a brief description can’t replace a proper exam. If you’re ever unsure or worried, it’s always safest to reach out to your family veterinarian or an emergency hospital, such as VERC. We’re here to help and support you and your furry family member.

Life-Threatening Emergencies – Go to the ER Immediately

Seek emergency veterinary care right away if your pet shows any of the following:

• Trouble breathing

  • Rapid or labored breathing not related to panting

  • Open-mouth breathing in cats

  • Noisy or exaggerated breathing in flat-faced breeds

  • Watch for abdominal heaving or neck extended to breathe

• Sudden weakness or mobility problems

  • Collapse, staggering, or inability to stand

  • Walking as if intoxicated or disoriented

  • Tremors or seizures

  • Sudden loss of function in one or more limbs, especially in cats

• Heatstroke

  • Excessive panting or drooling

  • Weakness or collapse

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Bright red or pale gums

  • Confusion or unresponsiveness

  • Often occurs after heat exposure or exercise

  • Life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary care

• Severe bleeding or trauma

  • Spurting blood

  • Puncture wounds on the chest, neck, or abdomen

  • Injuries from car accidents, falls, or heavy impacts

  • Even small wounds can hide deeper damage

• Abnormal appearance or behavior

  • Pale, white, or blue gums

  • Sudden bruising

  • Facial swelling

  • Severe pain

  • Bulging or squinting eyes

  • Sudden blindness

  • Fever with lethargy or loss of appetite

• Suspected ingestion of toxins

  • Chocolate

  • Xylitol (artificial sweetener found in many chewing gums)

  • Grapes or raisins

  • Lilies

  • Antifreeze

  • Rodenticides

  • Certain human medications

Contact Poison Control if you suspect your pet has ingested something dangerous - ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline: (800) 213-6680.

Symptoms That May Require Prompt Evaluation

Some signs may not be immediately life-threatening but still need attention if they persist or worsen:

• Mild coughing or sneezing without labored breathing, especially if your pet is otherwise acting lethargic or has a decreased appetite.

• Vomiting or diarrhea that occurs more than once or is accompanied by other symptoms.

• Loss of appetite lasting more than 24 hours.

• Excessive thirst or urination.

• Lethargy or unusual fatigue beyond your pet’s normal behavior.

• Changes in urination or defecation, particularly in male cats straining or unable to urinate for over 24 hours.

• Limping, minor wounds, new lumps, itchy skin, or[SC1] persistent scratching.

• Behavioral changes, such as hiding, irritability, or anxiety.

When in Doubt, Call VERC Hawaii

At VERC, our emergency and critical care team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays. We provide expert care for pets in urgent situations, whether injuries, sudden illness, or suspected toxin exposure.

If you are ever unsure about your pet’s symptoms, do not wait. Call us anytime at (808) 735-7735 to speak with a trained veterinary professional who can help determine the right care for your pet. Or come to our emergency hospital at 345 N. Nimitz Hwy, Unit C, Honolulu. Your pet’s health and safety are our top priority.