Nashville Veterinary Specialists

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 or from other trauma

• 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.