If you’re a cat owner, you’ve likely seen or come across the aftermath of your feline friend vomiting from time to time. But when should your cat’s vomiting become a cause for concern?
Why does my cat vomit?
If your cat is vomiting, the potential causes can range from simple and benign to dangerous and life-threatening. Most commonly, a cat will vomit because she ate too much or too quickly, was too active too soon after eating, or ate something that disagreed with her stomach. Other causes can include:
- Foreign body (like a hairball) or a foreign body obstruction
- Change in food
- Toxins or chemicals
- Parasites
- Bacterial infection of the gastrointestinal tract
- Kidney failure
- Pancreatitis
- Liver failure
- Gall bladder inflammation
- Viral infections
- Heartworm infection
- Colitis
- Gastritis
- Gastric or intestinal tumors
- Neurological disorders
- Reactions to medication or postoperative nausea
When should I be concerned about my cat’s vomiting?
It’s normal for a cat to vomit or experience a bout of vomiting occasionally. But, if your cat is vomiting frequently or regularly, call our office. Because the causes vary, diagnosis can be difficult. Watch for other signs of trouble to help narrow the possible causes of your cat’s vomiting. Let us know if your cat is also experiencing:
- Blood in the vomit
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Change in appetite or water consumption
- Dehydration (watch for sunken eyes, dry mouth, decreased skin elasticity, or panting)
To help determine the cause of your cat’s vomiting, we may recommend blood tests, X-rays, a fecal exam, and/or a sonogram depending on your cat’s medical history, age, and physical exam findings.
How can I treat my cat’s vomiting?
If your cat has suddenly begun to vomit, withhold food and water until the vomiting has stopped for two hours. Then, slowly introduce water and a bland diet, including rice, cooked skinless chicken, or plain boiled potatoes.
If you notice any of the symptoms listed above or your cat’s vomiting persists, contact us immediately.