10 Cat Emergencies You Shouldn't Ignore: A Comprehensive Guide

😿Unproductive wretching or vomiting is a major red flag that your cat needs immediate veterinary attention and can indicate severe disease.

😾Unproductive urination or inability to pee can be a sign of a urinary blockage, a potentially life-threatening condition that requires urgent veterinary care.

🌬️Difficulty breathing, coughing, or blue gums can indicate respiratory distress in cats and should not be ignored.

🦿Sudden paralysis of the back legs or dragging of legs can be a sign of serious conditions like saddle thrombus or disc disease, requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

🍽️Refusal to eat for more than one day can lead to a life-threatening condition called hepatic lipidosis and should prompt a visit to the vet.

What should I do if my cat is vomiting repeatedly?

—Repeated unproductive vomiting is a serious sign, and you should take your cat to the vet as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Why is unproductive urination dangerous for cats?

—Unproductive urination or inability to pee can indicate a urinary blockage, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. This condition requires immediate veterinary attention.

When should I be concerned about my cat's breathing?

—If your cat is having difficulty breathing, coughing, or has blue gums, it is a cause for concern and should be evaluated by a veterinarian immediately.

What should I do if my cat suddenly becomes paralyzed?

—Sudden paralysis, especially in the back legs, can be a sign of serious conditions such as saddle thrombus or disc disease. It is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How long can a cat go without eating before it becomes a problem?

—Cats should not go more than three to five days without eating. If your cat refuses to eat for longer, it can lead to a life-threatening condition called hepatic lipidosis. Contact your vet if you notice prolonged refusal to eat.

00:00In this video, Dr. Sarah Wooten discusses the top 10 cat emergencies that require immediate veterinary attention.

02:08Unproductive vomiting is a major red flag, indicating severe disease, and should not be ignored.

02:40Unproductive urination or inability to pee can be a sign of urinary blockage and requires urgent veterinary care.

03:36Difficulty breathing, blue gums, or coughing can indicate respiratory distress and should be addressed promptly.

04:35Sudden paralysis, especially in the back legs, can be a sign of serious conditions like saddle thrombus or disc disease.

05:40Refusal to eat for more than one day can lead to hepatic lipidosis, a life-threatening condition.

06:42Ingestion of toxins or poisons, such as Xylitol, ibuprofen, or rat bait, requires immediate veterinary attention.

08:17Abscesses from cat fights can cause severe pain and infection and need veterinary treatment.

09:03Neurological changes like seizures, unconsciousness, or sudden blindness should prompt immediate veterinary care.

09:50Trauma or broken bones require immediate veterinary attention to prevent further damage and promote proper healing.

11:41Swollen eyes or sudden blindness can be signs of ocular emergencies that require prompt veterinary intervention.