๐Ÿ“ž Calgary Pet Emergency: (403) 520-7387

Western Veterinary Specialist & Emergency Centre โ€” Open 24/7

๐Ÿšจ Cat Emergency Guide

Quick-reference guide for cat emergencies. Know the signs, first aid steps, and when to rush to the vet.

๐Ÿšจ Rush to a Vet Immediately If You See:

These are life-threatening emergencies. Do not wait โ€” go to the nearest emergency vet NOW.
๐Ÿ˜ค
Difficulty breathing
Open-mouth breathing, gasping, blue gums
๐Ÿฉธ
Heavy bleeding
Won't stop after 5 minutes of pressure
๐Ÿซง
Seizures
Convulsions, uncontrolled shaking, collapse
๐Ÿš—
Hit by a car
Even if they seem fine โ€” internal injuries possible
โ˜ ๏ธ
Suspected poisoning
Antifreeze, lilies, chemicals, medications
๐Ÿšซ
Can't urinate (male cats)
Straining with no output โ€” can be fatal in 24-48hrs
๐ŸŒก๏ธ
Extreme temperature
Heatstroke or hypothermia symptoms
๐Ÿ˜ต
Unconscious/unresponsive
Not responding to stimulation, limp body

๐Ÿงฐ Cat First Aid Kit Essentials

Keep these items in an accessible kit at home. Many are available at Calgary pet stores or pharmacies. Replace items as they expire.

๐ŸฉนGauze pads & rolls
โœ‚๏ธBlunt-tip scissors
๐ŸงคDisposable gloves
๐ŸŒก๏ธDigital rectal thermometer
๐Ÿ’ŠHydrogen peroxide 3%
๐Ÿ’งSaline eye wash
๐ŸฉนSelf-adhesive bandage wrap
๐ŸงŠInstant cold pack
๐Ÿ’‰Needleless syringe (for meds)
๐ŸงดAntiseptic wipes
๐Ÿ”ฆSmall flashlight
๐Ÿ“‹Vet contact info card
๐ŸงฒTick removal tool
๐Ÿฅ„Styptic powder (nail bleeds)
๐ŸงธTowel for wrapping
๐Ÿ“ฑPet poison hotline number

๐Ÿฅ Know Your Regular Vet Too

Emergencies are stressful. Having a regular vet makes follow-up care easier and faster.