My pet has been hit by a car: how to act
Being hit by a car is always a veterinary emergency, even if the animal gets up and seems fine. The impact can cause internal bleeding, chest injuries or fractures that are not visible and show up hours later. Staying calm and acting in order is what helps most.
Why it is always an emergency
The impact can rupture vessels, damage the lungs (air or blood in the chest makes breathing hard), injure the spleen or liver, or cause fractures and spinal trauma. Some of these injuries take hours to show, by which point they are serious. That is why a veterinary check-up is not optional.
Signs of internal injury to watch
| Area | What to watch |
|---|---|
| Breathing | Fast, laboured, open mouth, bluish gums |
| Gums/colour | Very pale (possible internal bleeding) |
| Abdomen | Swollen, tense or painful to the touch |
| Mobility | Limping, not bearing weight, dragging the hindquarters |
| General state | Lethargy, disorientation, tremors, collapse |
| Urine/stool | Blood in the urine or when defecating |
How to act step by step
- Get to safety first: move the animal away from traffic carefully, protecting yourself first.
- Handle it carefully: an animal in pain may bite out of fear. If needed and it is breathing well, improvise a muzzle with a bandage (never if it is vomiting, coughing or struggling to breathe).
- Control visible bleeding with firm pressure and a clean cloth.
- Move it on a rigid surface (board or taut blanket) as a stretcher, without bending the spine.
- Keep it warm with a blanket and avoid giving food or water.
- Call the emergency vet on the way so they can prepare.
How to move it without worsening the injuries
If you suspect a fracture or spinal damage, gently slide it onto a board, a large baking tray or a blanket held taut between two people, keeping the body as straight as possible. Secure it so it cannot fall during the journey and avoid sudden movements.
What NOT to do
- Don't assume it is fine because it walks or barely complains.
- Don't give human painkillers (ibuprofen, paracetamol): they are highly toxic.
- Don't force positions or pull on limbs that may be broken.
- Don't give water or food, in case anaesthesia is needed.
What the vet will do
First they stabilise (oxygen, fluid therapy, pain and shock control). Then they assess the extent of the injuries with examination, X-rays or ultrasound and blood tests, and treat bleeding, fractures or chest damage. Sometimes the animal is kept under observation for several hours in case of late complications.
Frequently asked questions
Should I go to the vet even if it seems fine?
Yes, always. Internal injuries (bleeding, lung damage) may not cause symptoms until hours later and can be serious. A timely check-up can save its life.
How do I move it if it can't walk?
Slide it carefully onto a board or rigid blanket without bending the spine, keeping it as still as possible, and go straight to the vet.
Should I muzzle it?
Only if it is breathing normally and not vomiting. An animal in pain may bite out of fear, but a muzzle on an animal that is coughing, vomiting or breathing badly is dangerous.
How long should I watch it afterwards?
Even if the vet finds it well, watch it for at least 24–48 hours and return if difficulty breathing, pale gums, vomiting, lethargy or blood in the urine appears.
Can I give it something for pain on the way?
No. Human painkillers are toxic and can complicate anaesthesia. Pain control will be done safely by the vet.
It is bleeding from the nose or mouth, what do I do?
Stay calm, don't plug anything, lay it on its side with the head slightly lower so it doesn't choke, and go immediately: it may indicate chest or head injury.
This is first-aid guidance only and does not replace a vet's diagnosis. In any emergency, contact a professional.
