A vet has shared the ten signs he looks for which may show that pets are in serious trouble.

While most pet owners know the basics, one in ten owners admit to not taking their beloved animal to the vets until it’s clearly needed.

Dr. James Greenwood, from Channel 4‘s Fur Babies and Morning Live, says there are some common signs that are easy to miss.

However, if these go unnoticed, they could be red flags when it comes to your pet’s health. 

Despite owners spending a whopping £1,400 a year on treats and toys, experts have warned that the nation is not taking care of the health requirements, which includes regular check ups and vaccinations.

It comes as a new study, commissioned by MyPet.com, shows as many as 58 percent of dogs – and 72 percent of cats in the UK have not been protected with annual vaccinations in the last year.

One in six pet owners have simply lost track of which vaccinations or treatments their pet has had over the years, putting their pets at risk of disease or early death.

These are the things to watch out.

1. Bad Breath

We often think bad breath is just part of pet aging, but bad breath is a key indicator of dental and gum disease — one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions in pets.

2. Ongoing Upset Stomachs or Loose Stools

If your pet regularly has an upset stomach or loose stools, don’t chalk it up to a sensitive tummy. Frequent digestive issues could be an indication of underlying issues, such as parasites, food intolerance, or even inflammatory conditions.

3. Itchy Skin or Sore Patches

Now that we’re firmly in spring, skin flare-ups are more common and can often be allergy related. If left untreated, they can become quite dangerous for our pets, leading to painful hot spots or infections.

4. Behaviour Changes

If you’ve noticed a change in your pet’s behaviour, this can be a sign of something serious. For example, a dog becoming snappy or withdrawn might be in pain, often due to things like arthritis or an injury. Always talk to your vet to rule out physical causes before assuming it’s just behavioural.

5. Skipping Vaccinations

Last year, 58% of dogs and 72% of cats missed their yearly vaccinations. Annual vaccinations are really important as they can protect against and prevent serious, sometimes fatal diseases.

6. Increased Drinking

Drinking more water isn’t always a good thing. If your pet suddenly starts drinking excessively, this could point to kidney disease, diabetes, or hormone imbalances. Keep an eye on their water consumption and talk to your vet if this seems out of routine for them.

7. Grass Seeds

Now we’re heading into the warmer months, it’s time to look out for grass seeds. These small seeds can burrow into skin, causing painful infections. Always check your pet’s coat and paws after a walk and remove any seeds before they cause an issue.

8. Heat Hazards Beyond Cars

We often talk about hot cars when it comes to pet safety in warm weather, but sheds, conservatories, and even pavements can be just as dangerous. Here’s a tip — If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.

9. Ear or Eye Discharge

Sometimes eyes and ears can just be ‘a bit gunky,’ especially when we encounter spikes in pollen. However, persistent discharge could be a sign of infection or irritation and needs treatment to prevent further damage.

10. You Just Feel Something’s ‘Off’

Trust your instincts. You know your pet better than anyone. If something feels different — talk to your vet and get it checked. Early detection saves lives.

A final piece is advice is to make sure to be aware that every pet is different.

Noticing a small change early could be the difference between a simple fix and a more serious condition.

Leading veterinarian, Dr James Greenwood explains: ‘This research confirms what we as vets encounter every day with our patients — many pets suffer unnecessarily from illnesses that could be easily prevented with a simple annual vaccination.

‘Vaccinations and regular health assessments not only save lives but can also reduce stress and financial strain for pet owners.

‘Whether pet owners are struggling to understand their options when it comes to vaccinations or are concerned about the cost, I’d always recommend talking to their vet about the treatments on offer as well as the health care plans that are available.’

Rebecca Keseru, Veterinary Advisor at MSD Animal Health, warns of the dangers of failing behind with your pet’s vaccinations: ‘Vaccinations are an essential part of keeping our pets healthy. 

‘Not only, along with a yearly health check, do they help protect from life-threatening diseases like canine parvovirus and feline panleukopenia, but they can also help owners avoid costly medical treatments in the future.’

‘Sometimes people assume pets only need vaccines when they are young, but dog and cat vaccinations do not last a lifetime, so our pets need regular boosters throughout their lives to remain protected.’