Last updated: September 28, 2026
Petwise publishes general information about caring for pets. It is written to help owners understand common questions and know what to ask their vet. It is not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace a diagnosis or treatment plan from a qualified veterinarian who has examined your animal.
If your pet may be unwell
Contact your veterinarian if your pet is sick, injured, in pain, not eating, or behaving in a way that is unusual for them. Many problems are easier to treat when they are caught early, and small animals, birds, reptiles and fish often hide signs of illness until they are quite unwell.
Emergencies
Do not wait or search online if your pet is struggling to breathe, has collapsed, is bleeding heavily, is having a seizure, may have eaten something toxic or has been hit by a vehicle. Call your vet or the nearest emergency veterinary clinic straight away.
Suspected poisoning
If you think your pet has swallowed something toxic, contact your vet or an emergency clinic immediately. Do not try to make your pet vomit or give any home treatment unless a vet or poison control service tells you to. In the US, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) and Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) are available 24 hours a day; a consultation fee may apply.
Who writes our health content
Petwise guides are written by pet care writers, not veterinarians, and are not currently reviewed by a veterinarian. They are based on published veterinary and animal welfare sources, and our Editorial Policy explains how that information is selected, checked and corrected.
Every animal is different
Species, breed, age, weight, health history and living conditions all affect what care is right for an individual pet. Figures in our guides, such as temperatures, portion sizes or feeding schedules, are general starting points. Your vet may recommend something different for your animal, and their advice should come first.
Exotic pets
Reptiles, birds, fish, small mammals and other exotic pets have very specific needs, and not every clinic treats them. We recommend finding a vet with experience in your species before you need one.
Medicines and treatments
Never give your pet a medicine, supplement or home remedy meant for people or for another species unless your vet has told you to. Some common human medicines are dangerous to animals, even in small amounts.
Your responsibility
Decisions about your pet’s health and care are yours to make, ideally with your vet’s guidance. Petwise is not responsible for outcomes that result from acting on the general information on this site. For more detail, see our Terms & Conditions.