Question

You are on the phone with a client who is calling the veterinary clinic for help with her cat that has been vomiting frequently for 24 hours. What are two questions you would ask the client to try to determine the severity of the cats conditions.

Answer 1

A professional from the veterinary clinic would ask about the frequency of vomiting and the cat's ability to keep down liquids, as well as check for signs of dehydration such as decreased urination and dry mouth, both critical in assessing the severity of the condition.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assessing a cat with frequent vomiting, as a veterinary clinic staff member, there are critical questions you should ask to ascertain the severity of the condition. These questions can guide the next steps in care or urgency of a vet visit. Below are two important questions to consider:

1. How frequently has the cat been vomiting, and is it able to keep down any liquids? Frequent vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down is a concern, as it can lead to dehydration.
2. Has there been a marked decrease in urination, or have you observed any signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth and throat or dizziness upon standing? This could indicate severe dehydration and requires urgent medical attention.

It is crucial to assess symptoms such as these because excessive vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration could suggest a range of conditions, including gastrointestinal infections, which might demand immediate intervention.