Trilby Animal Hospital, in Toledo, OH, saves the lives of pets like yours every day.
Pet stomach problems can be a sign of a life-threatening illness. Every pet throws up once in a while, but if a pet is experiencing symptoms like gagging or choking, or vomiting repeatedly, your pet may be in life-threatening distress and should see a veterinarian immediately. Quick action can mean the difference between life and death for a pet who is in distress.
Blockages
One of the most common gastric problems a pet encounters is a blockage caused by a foreign object. Pets don’t have hands, so the main way they investigate strange or unusual objects in their environment is to put their mouths around them and try to get a handle on how those objects taste and feel.
Some of these objects might end up in the stomach and if they can’t be broken down by gastric juices, can pass into the intestine unhindered, where they can get stuck. Veterinary intervention is the only way to get these lodged foreign objects out of your pet’s body.
Parasites
Cats and dogs can also be infested with intestinal worms and other parasites. These creatures are a widespread problem for pets, even indoor pets, and they can severely weaken your pet before it ever shows signs of a problem.
You should identify signs early and go to your vet any time your cat or dog begins experiencing symptoms. By the time your pet shows distress, the problem may already be acute, so act quickly—don’t just hope the distress will pass on its own, because it seldom does.
Constipation
A common digestive woe for cats is constipation. Many cats, especially male cats, can become constipated or develop urinary tract infections because of dehydration, which is a common problem for cats, who tend to have a weaker thirst response than humans or dogs. Keep an eye out for signs such as the cat straining in the litter box to produce. If you see this happen, make an appointment with a vet as soon as possible.
Hairballs
One of the least remarked digestive problems in cats is hairballs. Though extremely common, you still need to be aware of this condition. Cats always generate hairballs and very seldom is it a significant issue. If it is, consider taking your cat to be professionally groomed.
Call Us Today
A pet wellness exam at Trilby Animal Hospital in Toledo, OH, can detect gastric problems in your pet before you might even be aware of them, and help you develop a treatment plan that will give your pet a chance at a full recovery. Call us today at (419) 474-5403.