I don't know what is happening, and I'm honestly feeling pretty overwhelmed. My cat, Milo, has always been super energetic and playful, but lately, he's been acting so different. About a week ago, he got a scratch on his ear, nothing major, just a little mark I thought would heal on its own. But now, the area around the scratch is swollen and looks red, and he's just lying around, not wanting to play or even eat much. I read somewhere that infections can cause behavioral changes, but could it actually make Milo feel this sick? I've got an appointment with the vet scheduled, but it's not until the day after tomorrow, and I hate seeing him like this. Has anyone experienced something similar with their pets? What should I be doing in the meantime? I'm really worried and feeling pretty helpless. Any advice or just some reassurance would mean the world right now.
Thanks for reaching out with your question! It sounds like you're concerned about something happening with your pet, and I'm here to help.
Infections can indeed cause a variety of symptoms in pets, just like in humans. Depending on the type and location of the infection, you might notice symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, or skin changes.
For at-home care, it's crucial to ensure your pet is comfortable, stays hydrated, and gets plenty of rest. Offer small, frequent meals if they are not eating their usual amount. Monitor them closely for any changes.
However, please keep an eye out for signs that indicate the situation might be serious: labored breathing, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, significant changes in behavior, or any signs of pain. If you notice these, it's important to seek veterinary care promptly.
I recommend setting up a video consult with one of our veterinarians on Dial A Vet. We can help assess your pet’s symptoms in more detail and guide you on the next best steps. Take care, and we’re here to support you and your fur baby!
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