Pet Illness

People love their pets and treat them as part of the family. No one wants their pet to suffer. Responsible pet owners regularly check up on the quality of their pet’s health. When pets are sick, they cannot say in words but they can demonstrate how they are feeling through physical conditions and behavioral changes. Here are some of the most common symptoms of illness in pets.

A vet holding a dog with her right arm

Vomiting

When your pet vomits it may be due to stomach disease or issues in the upper intestinal track. If the vomiting is accompanied by abdominal pain, anemia, or fever, the veterinarian can get a more specific diagnosis. Our veterinarian will do a physical examination of the vomiting pet to get information about what could be causing the illness.

Non-gastric causes of vomiting include kidney failure and the presence of toxic substances in the animal's blood. The kidney could also be damaged by poison or dehydration.

Diabetes

Much like in humans, diabetes in pets is caused by a lack of insulin in their body or an inadequate biological response to insulin. The symptoms of diabetes are frequent thirst, increase in urination, loss of eyesight, and changes in appetite. If you suspect your pet has diabetes, we highly recommend visiting the veterinarian to carry out a blood test so that they can give you the best course of action.

Heartworm

The signs of heartworm include fatigue, weight loss, and loss of appetite. The signs begin when the worm reaches maturity. Another symptom is a persistent cough, which is caused by heartworm parasites entering the lungs, creating blockage and discomfort. If your pet is struggling with simple tasks, it may be a suffering from heartworm. 

Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral illness that affects pets. The virus affects the pet’s body and prevents it from absorbing nutrients.  Symptoms include severe bloody diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and rapid weight loss. This causes the pet to become weak and dehydrated. If you suspect your pet is suffering from parvovirus, we recommend bringing it in immediately, as the virus is highly contagious and if untreated has a very high mortality rate.

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. Research shows that it is most common in Hawaii. It is transmitted through bites from infected animals or when the saliva of the infected animal enters another pet through a fresh wound. Its prevention is through vaccination. Symptoms of rabies include the eating of unusual objects, hypersensitivity, and paralysis of the pet’s throat and jaw muscles.

Conclusion

Amigo Animal Hospital is well-suited to caring for your pet. In severe cases, we offer emergency medical services. We are proud to provide emergency pet care service to the Westminster, Huntington Beach, and Seal Beach areas. If you believe your pet is showing signs of illness, do not hesitate to give us a call or book an appointment online. 

Contact Us

We look forward to hearing from you

Location

13951 Milan St. Westminster, CA 92683

Phone: (714) 894-5558

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Amigo Animal Hospital

Monday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

Closed

Friday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Saturday:

8:00 am-12:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed