When to Seek Veterinary Care

Pets can’t tell us when they’re not feeling well—but their behavior often does. It’s important for pet owners to know how to recognize symptoms of sick pets. At Lansdowne Animal Hospital in Leesburg, VA, we’re committed to helping pets stay healthy through early detection and prompt care. We proudly serve Ashburn, Loudoun, Lansdowne, Belmont, Sterling, and surrounding areas, offering expert veterinary services. If you’ve been searching for a reliable “vet near me”, we’re here to help.

In this blog, we’ll cover common symptoms of illness in dogs and cats, how to recognize changes, and when to take your pet to the vet for a checkup.

Why Early Detection Is Important

Pets instinctively hide pain or weakness, especially cats. By the time you notice symptoms, the illness may be more advanced than it seems. Your vet may need to run some tests to determine what is going on. Catching problems early allows for quicker treatment, better outcomes, and often lower costs.

Regular wellness exams help, but it’s important to know what to look for between visits. 

Common Signs of Illness in Pets

Changes in appearance, behavior, or appetite can all be signs your pet isn’t feeling well. Here are some symptoms that warrant a call to your vet:

1. Changes in Eating or Drinking:

• Sudden increase or decrease in appetite
• Drinking much more or less than usual
• Refusing to eat for more than a day

2. Weight Changes:

• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Bloating or distended abdomen

3. Vomiting or Diarrhea:

• Persistent or severe episodes
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Accompanied by lethargy or dehydration

4. Lethargy or Weakness:

• Less interest in play or walks
• Difficulty standing or walking

5. Breathing Issues:

• Coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing
• Open-mouth breathing in cats

6. Skin and Coat Changes:

• Excessive scratching or hair loss
• Redness, rashes, or scabs

7. Bathroom Habits:

• Straining to urinate or defecate
• Accidents in the house or outside the litter box
• Blood in urine or stool

8. Behavior Changes:

• Aggression, hiding, or clinginess
• Vocalizing more than usual
• Disorientation or pacing

Be sure to contact your vet immediately if you spot any of these symptoms of sick pets. If you aren’t sure when to take your pet to the vet, call us and let us know what’s going on. Better safe than sorry! You can learn more about symptoms of illness in pets here.

Specific Symptoms in Dogs vs. Cats

While dogs and cats share many signs of illness, there are a few species-specific symptoms to watch for:

Dogs:

• Limping or lameness (especially large breeds)
• Scooting or dragging rear
• Ear odor or frequent head shaking

Cats:

• Hiding or avoiding interaction
• Changes in grooming habits
• Urinating outside the litter box

Because cats often mask pain, any behavioral change should be taken seriously.

When to See the Vet Immediately

Some symptoms are emergencies and require immediate care:

• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures or collapse
• Continuous vomiting or diarrhea
• Bleeding that doesn’t stop
• Sudden paralysis or inability to stand
• Ingestion of toxic substances

Call Lansdowne Animal Hospital or your nearest emergency vet right away if your pet shows any of these red flags.

How Vets Diagnose Pet Illnesses

At our Leesburg, VA clinic, we use a range of tools to diagnose illness, including:

• Physical exam
• Bloodwork and urinalysis
• X-rays and ultrasound
• Fecal and parasite screening
• Biopsies or cytology (for masses or skin issues)

These diagnostics help us identify the underlying cause and recommend the best treatment plan.

Ongoing Monitoring and Prevention

Many illnesses are manageable if caught early. Some require lifelong care, such as:

• Diabetes
• Thyroid disorders
• Kidney or liver disease
• Arthritis or mobility conditions

We’ll work with you to develop a treatment and monitoring plan. Routine checkups and lab work can help us catch relapses or adjust medications.

Tips for Monitoring Your Pet at Home

• Perform weekly body checks for lumps, bumps, or wounds
• Keep a journal of appetite, energy, and litter box/bathroom habits
• Watch for subtle changes in attitude or sleep
• Weigh your pet monthly if possible

Ask your vet for more information. 

Don’t Wait—Early Action Matters

If you notice something unusual with your pet, trust your instincts. You know them best. Acting early could make a critical difference in their treatment and recovery.

Visit our Service Page to learn more about the services we offer and the type of pets we see. Schedule a wellness exam at Lansdowne Animal Hospital in Leesburg, VA today—we’re here to help your pet feel better, faster.

Contact Our Belmont, VA Animal Clinic

Are you looking for a great vet in the Leesburg or Belmont VA area? Have you noticed any of these signs in your pet? Call us anytime! We’re here for you. 

This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult with your veterinarian for the right medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment plan for your pet and follow their advice.