6 common warning signs for when to take pets to the ER, according to Bham experts

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Whether your dog ate something they shouldn’t have, your cat is acting strangely or your pet suddenly starts having trouble breathing, it can be difficult to know when a trip to the emergency vet is necessary.

To help local pet owners recognize the warning signs, we spoke with the team at Veterinary Specialists of Birmingham about some of the most common reasons pets end up in their emergency room—and when it’s time to seek immediate care.

1. Help your pet stay safe in Alabama’s summer heat

With Birmingham’s hot and humid summers, heat stroke is one of the seasonal emergencies veterinarians see regularly. Emergency vet Dr. Laura Alverson says safety goes beyond just hot cars—be cautious going on walks, especially in places where hot concrete can burn your pet’s paws.

Signs of heat stroke include:

• Excessive panting
• Weakness
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Collapse
• Neurological abnormalities

If you suspect heat stroke, move your pet to an air-conditioned area and begin gentle cooling measures while heading to the nearest emergency veterinarian. Experts recommend using fans or lightly wetting paw pads rather than aggressive cooling methods, which can sometimes worsen the situation.

2. Your curious pet gets into something they shouldn’t

From sugar-free gum and medications to raisins and THC products, pets are notorious for getting into things they shouldn’t. According to the experts at Vet Specialists of Birmingham, symptoms of toxicity can vary depending on what was ingested, but common signs include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Tremors or seizures
• Lethargy
• Elevated heart rate
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of coordination

If you suspect your pet consumed something toxic, try to determine what they ate, how much they consumed and when it happened. Calling a pet poison hotline can also help veterinarians develop the best treatment plan. The sooner your pet is evaluated, the better the chances of preventing serious complications.

3. What to do if your pet experiences a seizure

Watching a pet experience a seizure can be frightening, but prompt veterinary care is important. Seizures can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Toxin exposure
• Neurological disease
• Metabolic disorders
• Infection
• Trauma

If it’s safe to do so, veterinarians recommend recording a video of the episode. This can provide valuable information that helps determine what’s happening and what testing may be needed.

4. Don’t ignore sudden swelling

A swollen face, leg or other body part may seem minor at first, but sudden swelling can indicate a serious problem.

Potential causes include:

• Allergic reactions
• Insect stings
• Wounds or infections
• Trauma
• Snake bites

During Alabama’s warmer months, snake envenomation is a particular concern for pets that spend time outdoors. Because symptoms can progress quickly, emergency evaluation is often necessary.

5. Breathing changes deserve immediate attention

Breathing issues should always be treated as an emergency.

Warning signs include:

• Rapid breathing
• Labored breathing
• Wheezing
• Unusual breathing sounds
• Pale or blue-tinged gums

Pets experiencing respiratory distress may require oxygen therapy and immediate stabilization. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait to see if they improve on their own.

6. Bathroom troubles can be more serious than they seem

Frequent trips to the litter box or yard with little to no output, crying out while trying to go—these are signs of a potential urinary obstruction. This is especially dangerous in male cats, where a blockage can become life-threatening very quickly.

Without treatment, urinary obstructions can lead to kidney damage, electrolyte imbalances and heart complications. Immediate veterinary care is essential.

What probably isn’t an emergency

Not every unusual symptom requires an immediate trip to the ER. Conditions that may be appropriate for a regular veterinary appointment include:

• Reverse sneezing
• Visible intestinal parasites in stool
• Ear infections or ear hematomas
• Seasonal allergy-related itching

While many pet emergencies can be stressful, recognizing the signs early and seeking prompt veterinary care can make a significant difference in your pet’s recovery.

Ultimately, as pet owners, we know when something feels “off.” When you’re unsure, it’s always okay to call your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary team for guidance—they’re there to help both you and your pet navigate unexpected situations.

Having a pet emergency? Here’s where to go in Birmingham:

• Address: 146 Resource Center Pkwy, Birmingham, AL 35242
• Hours: Emergency room is open 24 hours, 7 days a week
• If your pet needs treatment after normal hours, or your vet recommends you visit the ER, call 205-967-9107 or just show up!

Got more questions about keeping your pets happy + healthy in Bham? Ask the team at Veterinary Specialists of Birmingham, or go online to make an appointment.

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