At Pet Urgent Care of Wesley Chapel, we see many pets whose biggest obstacle to recovery is simply getting enough food. Illness, surgery, or trauma triggers a stress response that raises calorie needs and drives the body to strip protein from its own muscles. Fast, targeted nutrition protects the immune system, supports wound healing, and shortens hospital stays.
Why nutrition cannot wait
Cats are especially vulnerable because a short fast can lead to hepatic lipidosis, a potentially fatal liver problem. Dogs face their own risks; prolonged anorexia weakens heart and respiratory muscles and delays tissue repair. Supplying high‑quality protein and adequate calories early keeps patients out of this danger zone and gives medication and fluid therapy a better chance to work.
Warning signs that need urgent care
Call us right away if you notice any of the following:
- No food intake for 24 hours in cats or 48 hours in dogs
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea, especially with blood
- Sudden weight loss, lethargy, dry gums, or sunken eyes
These signs point to dehydration, metabolic collapse, or an underlying disease that will worsen without rapid veterinary attention.
How we help
During an urgent visit, our team will:
- Perform in‑house blood tests, imaging, and physical assessment to identify the cause.
- Restore hydration with intravenous fluids and balance electrolytes.
- Control pain and nausea so pets feel comfortable enough to eat.
- Choose a prescription diet that matches the diagnosis, whether low‑fat for pancreatitis or calorie‑dense recovery food after surgery.
- Place feeding tubes when needed, allowing low‑stress delivery of precise calorie targets.
- Monitor hospitalized patients continuously and adjust treatment as their condition changes.
These capabilities are part of our services that keep pets stable until they can return to their regular veterinarian.
After‑hours help when you need it
We provide compassionate, prompt care for pets who refuse food during evenings, weekends, and holidays when most primary vets are closed. If your pet stops eating or shows any of the warning signs above, call us first at (813) 279‑6500 so we can prepare for your arrival, then head to 27027 State Road 56, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 as quickly as possible.
Hours of Operation
Monday‑Thursday: 6 PM‑11 PM
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Holiday Hours
July 4: 9 AM‑11 PM
Christmas Eve: 2 PM‑11 PM
Christmas Day: 9 AM‑11 PM
New Year’s Eve: 2 PM‑11 PM
New Year’s Day: 9 AM‑11 PM
