• Mon, Tue, Thu: 8:00am – 6:00pm
  • Fri: 8:00am – 5:00pm
  • 1st & 3rd Sat each month: 8:00am – 1:00pm
  • Wed & Sun: Closed
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Cat Urgent Care Services

What To Do When Your Cat Needs Urgent Care?

There are times when you are certain that your cat has an emergency (i.e. unable to urinate), and there are times when you are very concerned but not convinced that it is an emergency requiring immediate care. When possible, call us so we know you are coming and can prepare for your arrival by having a doctor and necessary medical equipment in place and ready to provide care. We will also know to watch out for you and can assist when you arrive. A phone call will help us direct you for the best possible outcome.

If your cat has suffered a sudden trauma or is experiencing any life-threatening symptoms, please call us immediately at: (614) 451-4772

Experience Northwest Animal Hospital's difference. We are open for urgent care:

8 AM—6 PM Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 8 AM—5 PM Friday.

*After hours, take your cat to 

OSU Veterinary Medical Center
601 Vernon L. Tharp Street
Columbus, OH 43210
(614) 292-3551

MedVet Columbus
300 E. Wilson Bridge Road.
Worthington, Oh 43085
(614) 846-5800

PAWS Veterinary Urgent Care
8325 North High Street
Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 647-9499

Examples That Require Cat Urgent Care Examination and Treatment

Cats can be very subtle in showing signs of illness. Therefore, it is most important that you be on the lookout for subtle changes in your cat's behavior. If your cat normally greets you and wants to eat when you get home from work, and all of a sudden they neither greet you nor want to eat, this may be a very serious sign of a need for veterinary medical help.

The following are conditions that warrant urgent veterinary care for your cat: 

  1. Struggling to Urinate: This can indicate a urinary tract infection or blockage, requiring immediate attention.

  2. Protracted Vomiting or Diarrhea: Could lead to dehydration or signify gastrointestinal issues.

  3. Loss of Appetite: If your cat refuses to eat or drink for 24+ hours, it may be a sign of a medical issue.

  4. Restlessness or Hiding: Cats in pain or distress may hide or seem unusually restless.

Of course, we cannot explore every possible urgent scenario here; however, if you are worried about the health of your cat, and especially if you are worried that they may be experiencing a life-threatening situation, please call us immediately or simply bring your cat to our clinic located at:

1071 Old Henderson Rd.
Columbus, OH 43220
(614) 451-4772

Tips For Getting A Cat Urgent Care Services Safely

It is important to understand that although you might have an incredibly special bond with your feline friend, during a time of illness or injury, a cat's instinct can result in aggression toward anyone attempting to handle him or her. If your cat is suffering from an emergency and needs to be transported to an emergency hospital, you have a responsibility to make sure no subsequent injuries occur to any party. Follow these tips for safely transporting your cat to an emergency care clinic:

  1. First, gently place a towel over your cat's head to prevent biting, and then slowly lift him or her into an open-topped carrier or box.

  2. Be sure to support the cat's body weight, which should also help with relaxation.

  3. Take special care to support your cat's head, and avoid any twisting of the neck, especially in cases of possible spinal injury.

  4. Once secured, immediately transport him or her to an emergency cat clinic. If possible, call ahead to alert the staff of your pending arrival so they can adequately prepare for you in the meantime.

Call Northwest Animal Hospital at (614) 451-4772 if you are unsure about whether or not you should seek medical attention for your cat; we will assist in guiding you to the right care.