When your pet seems “not quite right”, it can be hard to know what to do next. Are they having an off day? Do they need a vet appointment? Or is it something that needs urgent help?
We know how worrying this can feel. Pets cannot tell us what hurts, so small changes in behaviour, appetite or energy levels can leave you guessing. The good news is that you do not have to make that decision alone. Between appointments, VidiVet, our online symptom checker, and out of hours emergency care, there is always support available when you need it.
Start by looking at the whole picture
Some symptoms are easy to spot, such as vomiting, limping or a sore eye. Others can be more subtle. You might notice your pet is quieter than usual, drinking more, sleeping more, eating less, hiding away or not wanting to play.
A single mild symptom may not always mean an emergency, but changes can become more concerning when they are sudden, severe, repeated or combined with other signs.
It can help to make a note of:
- When the symptom started
- Whether it is getting better, worse or staying the same
- Any changes in eating, drinking, toileting or behaviour
- Any possible triggers, such as new food, injury, toxin exposure or travel
- Photos or videos of the concern, when it is safe to take them
These details can be really useful for the veterinary team.
When to book a vet appointment
If you are concerned, booking an appointment is always a sensible step. Our vet consultations can cover a wide range of concerns, including skin conditions, eye problems, gastric or intestinal issues, dental checks, and general health checks. The
team also offers diagnostics such as X-rays, ultrasound, urine testing and blood testing when further investigation is needed.
You should contact the practice for advice or an appointment if your pet has symptoms such as:
- Ongoing vomiting or diarrhoea
- Coughing, sneezing or breathing changes
- Limping or stiffness
- Itchy skin, sore ears or hair loss
- Eye redness, discharge or squinting
- A change in appetite, thirst or weight
- Dental pain, bad breath or difficulty eating
- A wound, swelling or lump
- Behaviour changes that are unusual for your pet
Even if the problem turns out to be mild, checking early can often make treatment simpler and help your pet feel better sooner
Use our symptom checker when you are unsure
If you are not sure how urgent your pet’s symptoms are, our online symptom checker can help guide you. It is designed to help pet owners to understand whether their pet needs urgent veterinary attention and what the next step may be. You can find it here: https://www.happytailsvets.co.uk/symptom-checker/
A symptom checker is not a replacement for a vet examination, but it can be a helpful starting point, especially when you are trying to decide whether to book an appointment or seek urgent care.
VidiVet: advice when worries happen outside normal hours
Pet worries do not always happen at convenient times! That is why our clients have access to VidiVet, a 24/7 online vet advice service. Through VidiVet, you can ask questions, share photos or videos and receive guidance from qualified vets.
VidiVet can be especially useful for non-urgent concerns, general advice or situations when you are unsure whether your pet needs to be seen in person. It can also help you feel calmer and more prepared if your pet does need a visit.
You can find more information here https://www.happytailsvets.co.uk/vidivet
When it may be an emergency
Some symptoms should never wait. If your pet is seriously unwell, injured or in distress, you should seek urgent veterinary help.
Please contact emergency care straight away if your pet has :
- Difficulty breathing or choking
- Collapse, seizures or extreme weakness
- Severe bleeding or a deep wound
- Suspected poisoning or toxin exposure
- Repeated vomiting, especially if they cannot keep water down
- A swollen or painful abdomen
- Trouble passing urine, especially in male cats
- Severe pain, crying out or inability to settle
- Eye injuries, serious eye pain, or sudden loss of vision
- Road traffic accident, fall or other trauma
- Labour difficulties or concerns during birth
Outside of our opening hours, emergency cover is provided by Vets Now Eastbourne. In an emergency, call 01323 301292.
Helping your pet before you get advice
While you are arranging help, keep your pet calm, warm and safe. Avoid giving human medication unless a vet has specifically told you to, as many common medicines can be dangerous for pets. If you think your pet has eaten something toxic, keep the packaging if possible and tell the vet what they ate, how much and when.
You are not overreacting by asking
Pet owners often worry about “bothering the vet”, but if something feels wrong, it is always better to ask. You know your pet’s normal habits better than anyone. Whether you need a routine consultation, advice from VidiVet, the symptom checker or out of hours emergency care, support is available.
For appointments or advice during opening hours, contact us on 01424 863231 or email bexhill@happytailsvets.co.uk
