A black cat in an Elizabethan collar.

How to Prepare for a Cat Emergency

Being prepared and having a plan of action are the best measures to take to protect your pet. Here’s what you can do in case of a cat emergency and how you can prevent emergencies in the future.

Know Your Veterinary Clinic “Emergency” Policy

Every veterinary clinic is different. Some are available for emergency calls 24/7, while others are only available by appointment. Knowing your local veterinary hospital’s hours and capabilities are the most efficient way to be prepared for a cat emergency.

Below is an information template. You can fill it out with your emergency cat vet information and place it on your refrigerator for peace of mind.

Pet Emergency Contact Information
My Vet Hospital Name__________________________________
Phone Number__________________________________________
Emergency Hours_______________________________________
Closest Emergency Clinic Name ________________________
ER Phone Number_______________________________________
ER Clinic Address_____________________________________
Poison Control Phone Number (855) 764-7661
Poison Control Website https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com

What Is a Veterinary Cat Emergency?

When your cat has a medical issue, it’s best to know if it’s an emergency or worthy of a scheduled vet appointment? In most cases, an emergency can be defined as anything that causes you serious concern, since you know your pet best.

If you are worried about your cat, the first step to take is to call your veterinarian or local emergency cat hospital. Based on your concerns and the cat’s symptoms, they can assess the severity of the problem and provide specific directions.

If Your Vet’s Office Is Closed

The best number to call when you have a cat emergency is your veterinarian. If your vet is available and open, they may be able to see your pet immediately. If not, they may refer you to a local emergency clinic. If they’re also closed, most veterinary hospitals have their answering machine set to provide information about the closest operational clinic.

What If You Don’t Have a Vet for Your Cat?

It can be very scary when your cat has a medical problem or emergency and you don’t have a veterinarian. Try turning to Google to find an “Emergency Cat Hospital Near Me.” This should guide you to a veterinary hospital close to your location.

Three Most Common Veterinary Emergencies in Cats

The three most common veterinary emergencies in cats are vomiting, diarrhea, and inappetence. Below is some information about these three conditions and what you can do at home.

How to Prevent Common Cat Emergencies