Your dog threw up twice this morning. Your cat has been hiding since yesterday. Your puppy is limping after the park. Is it an emergency, or can it wait until tomorrow? Every pet owner faces this question eventually, and the uncertainty can be stressful.
This guide from Arlington Animal Clinic sorts common symptoms into three simple groups: go now, call today, and book an appointment. It is not a substitute for professional advice, but it can help pet owners in Arlington, Somerville, Medford, Belmont, and Lexington make faster, calmer decisions when something seems wrong.
Go Now: Signs of a True Pet Emergency
These symptoms can be life-threatening and need immediate veterinary care. If we are closed, go directly to the nearest 24-hour emergency animal hospital.
- Difficulty breathing, choking, or blue or gray gums
- Collapse, fainting, or inability to stand
- Seizures lasting more than a few minutes, or several in a row
- A swollen, hard belly with unproductive retching, especially in large, deep-chested dogs, which can signal gastric bloat (GDV)
- A male cat straining in the litter box with little or no urine
- Being hit by a car, falling from a height, or any major trauma, even if your pet seems fine
- Bleeding that does not stop after five minutes of pressure
- Known ingestion of a toxin, such as antifreeze, rodent bait, xylitol, chocolate, grapes, lilies (in cats), or human medications
- Severe pain, such as crying out when touched
- Heatstroke signs, such as heavy panting, drooling, and weakness on a hot day
For suspected poisoning, you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 on the way. A consultation fee may apply.
Call Today: Urgent but Not Always an Emergency
These symptoms should be evaluated within 24 hours. Call us during business hours, and we will help you decide how soon your pet needs to be seen.
- Vomiting or diarrhea more than two or three times, or with blood
- Not eating for more than a day (for cats, even one missed day matters)
- Limping that does not improve within a day
- Squinting, a red eye, or discharge from the eye
- Head shaking or a painful, smelly ear
- Hives, facial swelling, or a suspected allergic reaction without breathing trouble
- A wound that is gaping, deep, or from an animal bite
- Increased thirst and urination that appeared suddenly
Book an Appointment: Concerns That Can Wait a Few Days
These issues still matter, but they are usually safe to address at a scheduled visit:
- Mild itching or scratching
- A small lump that is not growing quickly
- Bad breath or tartar
- Gradual weight gain or loss
- Mild stiffness in an older pet
- Routine vaccines, wellness exams, or prescription refills
If any of these change quickly or your pet seems to be getting worse, move them up to the “call today” category.
Special Notes for Cats and Exotic Pets
Cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, and other small pets hide illness very well. By the time they show symptoms, they may be quite sick.
- A rabbit or guinea pig that stops eating or passing droppings for even 12 hours needs prompt care
- A bird sitting fluffed up on the cage floor is often seriously ill
- A cat hiding and refusing food for more than a day should be seen
Learn more about our exotic pet care services.
What to Do on the Way to the Vet
- Call ahead so the team can prepare for your arrival
- Keep your pet calm and as still as possible
- Use a carrier for cats and small pets, and a blanket as a stretcher for injured dogs
- Bring any packaging from something your pet may have eaten
- Do not give human medications or induce vomiting unless a veterinarian tells you to
Plan Ahead Before an Emergency Happens
Arlington Animal Clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We recommend saving our number, the nearest 24-hour emergency animal hospital, and a poison control line in your phone today, so you are not searching for them in a stressful moment. For non-urgent questions, our telemedicine service may also help.
Common Questions About Pet Emergencies
Should I wait and see if my pet gets better?
For mild, single episodes of vomiting or diarrhea in an otherwise bright pet, monitoring for a few hours can be reasonable. If you see any “go now” signs, do not wait.
Can I call my regular vet for advice first?
Yes. During business hours, our team can help you decide whether your pet needs to be seen right away.
Why are emergency visits more expensive?
Emergency hospitals staff specialists and equipment around the clock. Keeping up with preventive care can reduce the chance of needing one.
When to Schedule a Visit with a Veterinarian
If your pet has a concern that falls into the “call today” or “book an appointment” groups, we are here to help. Arlington Animal Clinic at 191 Broadway in Arlington, MA, offers same-week appointments whenever possible, along with in-house diagnostics to find answers quickly. Call us at 781-646-0758.
