PetCare Russia
    Urgent

    Shaking and Trembling in Pets

    Trembling can come from cold and fear but also signals pain, hypoglycaemia, or poisoning.

    АП

    Medically reviewed by

    Анна Петрова, DVM, к.в.н.

    Lead Veterinary Editor

    Last reviewed:

    Urgent if trembling pairs with vomiting, weakness, or loss of coordination.

    Assess

    Shaking and Trembling in Pets

    Trembling can come from cold and fear but also signals pain, hypoglycaemia, or poisoning.

    • •Cold (small breeds, hairless cats)
    • •Fear and stress
    • •Pain (abdomen, back, limbs)
    • •Poisoning (chocolate, xylitol, nicotine, mushrooms)

    Possible causes

    • •Cold (small breeds, hairless cats)
    • •Fear and stress
    • •Pain (abdomen, back, limbs)
    • •Poisoning (chocolate, xylitol, nicotine, mushrooms)
    • •Hypoglycaemia in toy-breed puppies

    What to do at home

    1. Warm the pet — blanket, warm room
    2. Remove stressors
    3. Check for injury
    4. Rub honey on the gums if hypoglycaemia suspected in tiny puppies

    When to call the vet

    • →Trembling persists after warming and calming
    • →Known toxin exposure
    • →Weakness, ataxia, vomiting
    • →Trembling with fever or lethargy

    FAQ

    Why do Chihuahuas tremble?

    Small breeds chill quickly and run emotionally hot. Constant unexplained trembling warrants blood sugar and cardiac checks.