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ASK A VET

Should I Take My Pet to the Emergency Vet?

Answer a few quick questions. Get a clear steer in under a minute: go now, see a vet today, or watch at home.

Your pet

Which pet?

Choose the species. We ask about age and health next.

Your pet

Anything that raises the risk? (optional, tick any)

The same signs are more serious in these pets.

Emergency check

Is your pet showing any of these right now?

Tick anything that applies. Even one of these means an emergency. If you're not sure, tick it.

Main concern

What's the main problem?

If none of the emergency signs above apply, tell us what's worrying you.

This tool is a guide, not a diagnosis, and it can't examine your pet. When in doubt, always err on the side of seeing a vet. If your pet is collapsing, struggling to breathe, bleeding heavily or in severe pain, go straight to an emergency clinic and don't wait for an online tool.

From the vet

How to tell a real pet emergency from a watch-at-home problem

Pet emergencies generally fall into three groups: conditions that need a vet immediately, problems that need a same-day appointment, and mild signs that can be monitored closely at home. Use the checker above for a quick triage result, then contact a veterinarian whenever your pet worsens or you remain concerned.

Signs that always mean go now

Collapse, difficulty breathing, pale or blue gums, uncontrolled bleeding, a bloated abdomen, prolonged seizures, inability to urinate, suspected poisoning, major trauma, severe pain and heatstroke are emergency warning signs. Call ahead and travel directly to an open veterinary clinic.

Common emergencies owners miss

Dogs with a swollen abdomen and unproductive retching may have bloat. Male cats repeatedly straining in the litter tray may have a blocked bladder. Cats breathing with an open mouth, pets that have swallowed toxins, and animals that suddenly become weak or unresponsive all require urgent veterinary care.

Still not sure what to do next? You can ask a vet online with Ask A Vet. Ask a vet online

Dr Duncan Houston
About the author

Dr Duncan Houston · BVSc, Veterinarian

Emergency careGeneral practiceMobile vet careFounder, ASK A VET™

Dr Duncan Houston is an Australian veterinarian with experience in emergency, general-practice and mobile veterinary care. He is the founder of ASK A VET™. This guide is educational and is not a substitute for hands-on veterinary care.