7 Signs That Your Cat Needs Emergency Vet Care

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When cats are sick or injured, they tend to mask their pain, an instinct held over from their days in the wild. Though they no longer have to worry about being attacked when they’re vulnerable, they still avoid showing outward symptoms when they’re not well. If your cat is sick or hurt and you’re not sure if it’s serious or if they can wait to see a vet, look for these seven signs that your cat needs emergency vet care.

1. Hiding More Than Usual

It’s normal for cats to seek out hiding places for napping and playing, but if your cat has been exceptionally elusive, they might be feeling sick or in pain. A sudden increase in hiding behavior can indicate distress, illness, or injury.

2. Refusing to Eat

It’s not unusual for cats to be picky or for their appetite to fluctuate from day to day. But it’s not safe or healthy for your cat to refuse to eat for extended periods of time. Cats are prone to hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver syndrome), which can occur when they aren’t eating enough and their body burns fat for fuel. This life-threatening condition can develop if your cat eats little to no food for more than three days and is more common in overweight cats.

3. Urinary Issues

Straining to urinate, crying out in pain, blood in the urine, or decreased urination are all warning signs of a urinary tract blockage — a medical emergency that can quickly become fatal. A blockage can form from stones, crystals, or inflammation caused by recurring urinary tract infections, preventing your cat from urinating.

To support your cat’s urinary health, explore urinary tract supplements and medications for cats on 1800PetMeds.

4. Eye Problems

Eye issues in cats are painful and can lead to permanent loss of vision. Bulging, swelling, redness, tearing, bleeding, cloudiness, or yellow or green discharge can be signs of conditions like glaucoma, a corneal ulcer, or an infection. Because these issues can worsen quickly, seek immediate veterinary care to protect your cat’s vision.

5. Pale Gums

If you suspect your cat is sick or injured, checking their gums can help determine if it’s an emergency. Pale gums indicate a lack of blood circulation or shock, which may result from heavy bleeding, severe dehydration, heart failure, or sepsis. This is a critical sign that requires prompt veterinary attention.

6. Deep Wounds and Heavy Bleeding

Small cuts and scrapes can often be treated at home with a pet first aid kit, but deep wounds, bites, or large scratches should be treated by a veterinarian. They can clean the wound, prescribe antibiotics, and check for internal injuries. Traumatic events like being hit by a car or fighting with another animal can also cause unseen damage such as internal bleeding, broken bones, or dental trauma.

You can stock up on basic first aid and wound care supplies for cats to be prepared for minor injuries.

7. Vomiting and Diarrhea

Acute gastric upset is not uncommon in cats, and it’s normal for them to cough up a hairball occasionally. However, repeated vomiting or diarrhea may indicate a serious problem such as poisoning, kidney or liver failure, or a gastric blockage. An inability to keep food down can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in kittens and seniors.

Seek emergency care if your cat has severe or repeated episodes, if symptoms last more than 24–48 hours, or immediately if you notice other signs like lethargy or pale gums.

Emergency Vet Care for Cats

If your usual vet’s office is open, call to see if they can take your cat for an urgent appointment. Some veterinarians can accommodate same-day visits. When your regular vet is closed or cannot fit you in, go to your nearest 24/7 emergency vet hospital right away.

In the meantime, maintaining your cat’s health with regular checkups and wellness essentials for cats can help prevent emergencies before they start.