What Constitutes an Emergency?

These situations are life-threatening and require immediate care:

• Difficulty breathing: Gasping, blue gums, extended neck
• Severe bleeding: Won't stop with direct pressure
• Collapse or unresponsiveness: Can't stand or respond
• Seizures: Especially lasting more than 3 minutes or clusters
• Inability to urinate: Straining repeatedly, especially male cats
• Known toxin ingestion: Chocolate, xylitol, medications, rodenticides
• Severe trauma: Hit by car, animal attack, fall from height
• Bloated abdomen: Hard, distended belly with retching
• Heatstroke: Excessive panting, bright red gums, collapse
• Birthing problems: More than 2 hours between puppies/kittens

These situations need prompt attention. Call us at (309) 828-7722 to determine if immediate care is needed:

• Vomiting or diarrhea more than 2-3 times
• Not eating for more than 24 hours
• Lethargy or weakness
• Limping or unable to put weight on a leg
• Eye injuries or sudden blindness
• Allergic reactions (facial swelling, hives)
• Bleeding from any orifice
• Ingestion of string, ribbon, or foreign objects

These conditions should be addressed but typically aren't emergencies:

• Mild limping that comes and goes
• Single episode of vomiting or diarrhea in an otherwise normal pet
• Ear infections (scratching, head shaking)
• Skin issues (itching, hot spots)
• Minor wounds that aren't deep or bleeding heavily
• Mild eye redness or discharge
• Decreased appetite for less than 24 hours
• Mild coughing or sneezing

For these issues, call Highland Pet Hospital at (309) 828-7722 during regular hours for a Prompt Care appointment.

You know your pet best. If something seems wrong, trust your instincts and call us. We're happy to help you determine whether your pet needs emergency care.

Emergency Line: (309) 828-7722

It's always better to call and find out it's not an emergency than to wait and wish you hadn't.