The following are definite emergencies and require immediate medical attention:
- Difficulty breathing with a blue colored tongue
- Swollen or distended abdomen especially associated with vomiting, retching or extreme listlessness
- Repeated attempt to urinate in a cat without any urine production
- Repeated vomiting
- A broken bone associated with being hit by a car
- Ingestion of a toxin. Common pet toxins include but are not limited to:
- Chocolate
- Rat poisons (D-con)
- Prescription, over the counter or illegal drugs (BRING THE CONTAINER WITH YOU)
- Artificial sweeteners (e.g. xylitol)
- Nicotine
- Household cleaners
- Antifreeze
- Certain household plants (e.g. Easter lillies)
- Traumas such as being hit by a car, falling from a height or experiencing a blunt force, even if the animal is not showing any ill effects.
- Collapse/inability to stand or walk.
- Loss of balance or consciousness, convulsions or seizure activity.
- Penetrating wound, such as bite wounds, gunshot or stab wounds.
- Bleeding that does not stop within 5 minutes (Apply pressure using a clean cloth while on your way.)
- Vomiting or diarrhea with blood.
- Heatstroke: heavy panting, weakness, temperature greater than 104 degrees.