Pet symptoms,
explained clearly.
Plain-English guides to the most common dog and cat health symptoms. Each page tells you what to photograph, what's likely, and when to see a vet.
This page is general pet health information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan for your pet. Always confirm anything urgent with a licensed veterinarian.
Dogs
- EyeWhy are my dog's eyes red, watery, or swollen?
Redness, discharge, squinting or swelling in your dog's eye? Learn the likely causes, what to photograph, safe home care, and the red flags that need a vet today.
- MouthHow do I know if my dog has dental disease?
Bad breath, brown tartar, red gums, or dropping food? Learn the four stages of canine periodontal disease, how to check at home, and when to book a dental cleaning.
- SkinMy dog has a bite wound - what should I do?
Every dog bite wound should be seen by a vet within 24 hours because most bites cause deeper damage than the skin shows. Learn safe first aid and infection red flags.
- SkinWhy is my dog losing hair in patches?
Bald spots, thinning, or a moth-eaten coat in your dog? Learn what allergies, mange, ringworm, and hormones look like - and which need a vet visit.
- SkinWhy is my dog so itchy?
Constant scratching, chewing paws, or rubbing the face? Learn the top causes of dog itch - fleas, allergies, yeast, mites - and what actually helps.
- Whole bodyDog symptom checker: emergency triage guide
Free dog symptom checker and emergency triage guide. Decide in 60 seconds whether your dog needs the ER now, a vet today, or safe home monitoring - with the exact photos to capture.
Cats
- EyeWhat causes eye discharge and squinting in cats?
Runny, gunky, or squinty cat eyes are usually feline herpesvirus, conjunctivitis, or a scratch. See the red flags, how to photograph the eye, and safe next steps.
- MouthWhy does my cat have bad breath?
Bad breath in cats usually means dental disease, but can also signal kidney disease, diabetes, or oral cancer. Learn how to check at home and when to see a vet.
- SkinWhy does my cat's coat look dull, greasy, or unkempt?
A dull, greasy, or matted cat coat is usually a sign of pain, obesity, or illness stopping normal grooming. Learn the common causes and what to photograph.
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