Vets would rather you call about a non-issue than wait too long on a real one. Still, knowing the difference saves you time, money, and worry.
Call right away
- Difficulty breathing, blue or pale gums
- Repeated vomiting, especially with a bloated belly
- Inability to urinate (especially in male cats)
- Sudden collapse or seizures
- Suspected poisoning (chocolate, grapes, lilies, antifreeze)
Watch and wait 24 hours
Mild lethargy, one episode of vomiting or loose stool, or a slightly off appetite in an otherwise normal pet usually resolves on its own. Track it; if it persists past a day, call.
What "watching" actually means
Don't just wait passively — check in every few hours. Is the pet still drinking water? Still interested in a favourite toy or treat, even if not eating a full meal? Still using the litter box or asking to go out normally? Any one of those slipping further is the signal to stop waiting.
Have the emergency plan ready before you need it
Save your regular vet's number and a 24-hour emergency clinic's number in your phone under a name you'll actually search for at midnight, like "Vet Emergency." Know the fastest route by car. Knowing where you're going before you need to go saves the ten panicked minutes that usually happen first.
When in doubt, call. A two-minute phone consult costs nothing and is what your vet's reception staff is there for.
