Dogs and cats are very good at
hiding illness until the problem is too advanced to hide anymore. Exotic pets,
especially rabbits, rodents, and ferrets are even better at hiding illness.
When they exhibit an illness, they could be one day from dying!
In general, if your pet has a normal appetite, normal stool, no change in
frequency of urination, and good energy, you have nothing to worry about.
Appetite that was once consistent, that is no longer, can be an early clue
of a problem. Any change in water consumption, especially an increase should
never be ignored. Increased frequency or volume of urine, or accidents in
the house is a red flag. It is always a good idea to keep an eye on what goes
in your pet and what comes out. Any alteration from normal is worth a visit
to the vet.
Unexplained weight loss is an important clue that something is wrong. Even
if the weight loss is needed (in an obese or overweight animal), if a change
is weight is not deliberate, pay attention! A sudden or slow change in energy
is reason for concern. A slow decrease is often attributed to aging and that
is often not the case. The hair coat is your last clue. An animal's coat can
be a window to their overall health. If a lustrous coat becomes dull, flat,
dry, thin, or oily, please bring them in for a check up.