When should I take my pet to an emergency vet?

Go immediately for difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, uncontrolled bleeding, suspected poisoning, bloat in dogs, blocked bladder in male cats, or if your rabbit stops eating and passing droppings.

What is Vets Now in the UK?

Vets Now operates out-of-hours emergency clinics across the UK when your daytime practice is closed. Use their online clinic finder for the nearest location.

Should I call before travelling?

Yes — phone ahead so the team can prepare and advise on safe transport. Keep your pet calm and warm during the journey.

Is the PDSA open for emergencies?

PDSA provides care for eligible clients — check your local PDSA eligibility. Others should use their registered vet's out-of-hours service or Vets Now.

Pet Care

When to See an Emergency Vet in the UK

Quick answer

Take your pet to an emergency vet **immediately** if they have difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, severe bleeding, suspected poisoning, a bloated dog abdomen, a male cat unable to urinate, or a rabbit not eating or passing droppings. In the UK, use your vet's out-of-hours service or the **Vets Now clinic finder**. For toxins, call **Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000** while you travel.

Key takeaways

Go now for difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, uncontrolled bleeding, suspected poisoning, dog bloat, blocked male cats, or rabbits not eating.
Out of hours in the UK, use your vet's recorded message or the Vets Now clinic finder — phone ahead when you can.
For toxins, call Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 while travelling to a vet — do not wait for symptoms.

The full picture

Causes, home monitoring, treatment options and the exact signs that mean call your vet — in the complete guide.

Read the full guide Check symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I take my pet to an emergency vet?: Go immediately for difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, uncontrolled bleeding, suspected poisoning, bloat in dogs, blocked bladder in male cats, or if your rabbit stops eating and passing droppings.
What is Vets Now in the UK?: Vets Now operates out-of-hours emergency clinics across the UK when your daytime practice is closed. Use their online clinic finder for the nearest location.
Should I call before travelling?: Yes — phone ahead so the team can prepare and advise on safe transport. Keep your pet calm and warm during the journey.
Is the PDSA open for emergencies?: PDSA provides care for eligible clients — check your local PDSA eligibility. Others should use their registered vet's out-of-hours service or Vets Now.

Reviewed 2026-07-10 against UK veterinary guidance · Information only — not a substitute for seeing your vet.