As a pet owner, the distinction between a minor ailment and a life-threatening crisis isn't always obvious. However, in emergency medicine, time is the most critical factor. At Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists, we serve as Tulsa’s 24/7 multi-specialty and emergency referral hospital, providing advanced care when every second counts.
This guide is designed to help you perform an immediate at-home triage to determine if your pet requires the intervention of a board-certified specialist or emergency clinician.
If your pet exhibits any of the following signs, do not wait for an appointment. These conditions often indicate systemic failure or acute trauma that requires immediate stabilization.
Clinically known as Dyspnea, difficulty breathing is a top-tier emergency. Watch for flared nostrils, open-mouth breathing (especially in cats), or a bluish tint to the gums (Cyanosis).
Uncontrolled Hemorrhage from a wound or arterial spray requires instant intervention. Even if bleeding stops, internal trauma from a "hit-by-car" (HBC) incident or a high-altitude fall can lead to delayed organ failure.
Many common household items carry high Toxicity levels. This includes Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum), Lilies (lethal to cats), chocolate, or rodenticides.
A single seizure lasting more than two minutes, or multiple seizures in 24 hours (cluster seizures), can lead to Status Epilepticus- a state of continuous seizure activity that can cause permanent brain damage or hyperthermia.
In male cats, especially, a Urethral Obstruction is a surgical emergency. If your pet is straining, vocalizing in the litter box, or producing no urine, toxins can build up in the bloodstream within hours, leading to cardiac arrest.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), commonly known as "Bloat," occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists. This cuts off blood flow to vital organs and is rapidly fatal without emergency surgery.
While a single episode may be minor, persistent vomiting or bloody diarrhea can indicate Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE) or a foreign body obstruction. This leads to rapid dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Extreme vocalization, panting, or an inability to get comfortable can signal internal crises like Pyometra (a life-threatening uterine infection in unspayed females) or acute pancreatitis.
The eyes are highly sensitive. Corneal Ulcers or Proptosis (where the eye bulges from the socket) can result in permanent blindness if not treated within an hour.
Sudden collapse often indicates Hypovolemic Shock, internal bleeding, or a major cardiac event. If your pet is "flat out" and unresponsive, their circulatory system is failing.
Not every concern requires an emergency visit. If your pet is alert, eating, and breathing normally, you may be able to wait for a scheduled appointment for:
When an emergency strikes, preparation saves lives.
Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists is the only facility in the region providing this level of integrated emergency and specialty care. As a VECCS-certified facility, we adhere to the highest national standards for Emergency and Critical Care. Our team includes board-certified surgeons, internists, and oncologists working alongside our 24/7 emergency clinicians to ensure your pet receives the most advanced medical intervention available in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists delivers 24-hour emergency care and board-certified specialty services with advanced technology and compassionate treatment.
