Your feline family member has a sudden emergency! Do you know what to do? Find out how to handle an emergency situation.
Medical emergencies occur suddenly and without warning. It is important for all pet owners to have a basic understanding of common veterinary medical emergencies and basic first aid for their cat. Some emergencies are obvious, while others may initially escape your notice. While no one can be prepared for all emergencies, there are some simple steps you should follow and clinical signs to look for if your cat is ill or involved in an accident. Who knows, it just may save your cat’s life!
What should I do in an emergency?
- Keep calm and assess the scene for any additional threats to you or your pet. This is important for everyone’s safety.
- Keep your cat warm, as quiet as possible, and keep movement to a minimum, especially if there is possible trauma, broken limbs, or any neurological symptoms.
- Contact your veterinary hospital, inform them of the situation and get first aid advice.
- To safely move or transport an injured cat, use a suitable container such as a strong cardboard box or a cat carrier (remove the top for easy and safe access to the carrier; don’t push an injured cat through the small door or opening). Drop a blanket or thick towel over the patient. Tuck it in carefully or maneuver the cat onto the blanket so it can be gently placed in the container. The blanket will help stabilize the neck and spine and prevent inadvertent clawing or scratching from the injured pet.
- Get to the veterinary hospital as soon as possible, but drive carefully!
See more information about emergency canine situations and what to do here »
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