Monitor — routine vet appointment
When to call an emergency vet (cats)
Cats hide illness — phone the vet for any cat off food over 24 hours, breathing changes, urinary straining, jaundice, or sudden behavioural change.
First aid steps
- Save numbers as for dogs.
- Symptoms warranting emergency: open-mouth breathing, collapse, seizure, sudden hindleg paralysis (saddle thrombus), straining to urinate, severe bleeding, suspected poisoning (especially lily, paracetamol, antifreeze, permethrin), hit by car, jaundice, severe vomiting or diarrhoea, prolonged labour, off food >24 hours.
Do NOT
- Do not delay phoning.
- Do not assume cats 'just hide when ill' — they do, but they hide serious illness. Phone.
Prevention
- Save numbers now.
- Carrier ready and accessible at all times.
- Annual checks; senior bloods from age 8.
Frequently asked questions
Why is 'off food for 24 hours' an emergency in cats?
Hepatic lipidosis can develop within 2-3 days of fasting in cats, especially overweight cats. Earlier intervention is far easier than treating established fatty liver.
Can the vet come to me?
Some vets and emergency services offer home visits, but most emergencies are best handled in-clinic with full equipment.
Should I bring the cat in if signs are mild?
Cats hide so well that 'mild' often means 'much worse than it looks'. Phone first; they will advise.