Pet Emergency Guide: What to Do When Every Second Counts
Knowing what to do in a pet emergency can save your pet's life. Our guide covers the most common emergencies and immediate steps.
Pet emergencies are terrifying, but being prepared can make the difference between life and death. This guide covers the most common emergencies, what you can do immediately, and when to rush to the vet. Keep RVC's emergency number saved in your phone: +853 6677 6611.
Key Points
- Stay calm — your pet needs you to think clearly
- Call the vet BEFORE coming so they can prepare
- Never give human medications without vet guidance
- Muzzle injured pets gently — even gentle pets bite when in pain
- Time is critical — don't wait to see if it gets better
- RVC is open 24/7 for emergencies
Most Common Pet Emergencies
The top emergencies we see at RVC include: hit-by-car accidents, poisoning (toxic foods, chemicals), breathing difficulty, seizures, severe vomiting/diarrhea (especially with blood), bloat (gastric torsion in dogs), difficulty giving birth, heatstroke, and traumatic injuries. Knowing the signs helps you act fast.
What to Do Before You Leave
Call RVC at +853 6677 6611 to let us know you're coming. Keep your pet warm and still — wrap them in a towel or blanket. If there's bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth. For suspected poisoning, bring the packaging or substance. For seizures, don't put anything in your pet's mouth — just clear the area around them. Transport cats in a secure carrier.
What NOT to Do
Don't give human medications (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin are toxic to pets). Don't try to set broken bones. Don't induce vomiting unless specifically told to by a vet. Don't put your fingers in the mouth of a seizing pet. Don't delay seeking care — waiting 'to see if it gets better' wastes precious time.
Being Prepared
Keep a pet first aid kit: gauze, bandages, antiseptic solution, digital thermometer, hydrogen peroxide (only if vet-directed), muzzle, and emergency contact numbers. Know your pet's normal vital signs: dogs 60-140 heart rate, 100-130 for cats. Normal temperature is 38-39.2°C (100.5-102.5°F). Keep your vet's number and the nearest 24/7 emergency vet saved in your phone.
When to See a Vet Immediately
- Difficulty breathing or gasping
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Seizure lasting more than 2 minutes
- Suspected poisoning
- Hit by a car or major trauma
- Bloody vomiting or diarrhea
- Inability to urinate (especially male cats)
- Sudden collapse or unconsciousness
How RVC Can Help
RVC is open 24/7, 365 days a year for emergencies. Our team is trained in emergency and critical care. Don't hesitate — call +853 6677 6611 or come directly to our clinic.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is showing any symptoms, please contact Royal Veterinary Center immediately at +853 6677 6611.