Curious Behavior

Your pet is acting odd, but you’re not sure what’s wrong. Knowing your pet’s vital signs can help your veterinarian assess his condition.

Put Your Fingers On The Pulse
Your pet's pulse and heart rate should be strong, regular and easy to locate. The femoral artery in the groin area is the easiest place to check for a pulse. Reaching inside the hind leg, slide your hand up until you reach the abdomen. Stop and move your fingers gently back and forth on the leg until you feel the pulse. Count the number of pulses for 15 seconds and multiply that number by 4 to get the beats per minute.

Hot Or Cold?
The normal body temperature for dogs and cats is 100 to 102.5 degrees. It’s best not to gauge your pet’s temperature by feeling his nose or the inside of his ears. An accurate and easy method is to take your pet’s rectal temperature using a digital thermometer. Avoid using a mercury thermometer as it can easily break.

First, make sure the thermometer is clean before checking your pet's temperature. Apply petroleum jelly to the thermometer.

If possible, have someone assist you by holding your pet firmly so he can’t move while you’re taking his temperature. A thermometer can be retracted into your pet’s body if he moves.

Next, gently lift your pet’s tail and carefully insert the thermometer into his rectum, holding it there for approximately one to two minutes, or until the thermometer beeps.

Further Reading :
A Survival Tail
Do you know what to do when your dog or cat becomes hurt?

First Aid Kit Checklist
You can easily put together a well-stocked pet first aid kit.

Learn more about VPI Pet Insurance:
Dog insurance, Cat insurance, What’s covered, Get a quote