Dear VetBabble: Is My Cat’s Vomiting and Lack of Appetite Caused by Stress?
A concerned pet owner recently asked us about their cat’s sudden change in behavior and health: “My cat has started acting strange since my brother brought his two cats around. She won’t eat or drink and pukes up white foam. Could it be stress? If she’s not eating, she could be going into liver failure (hepatic lipidosis). This can happen when cats get stressed (like after household changes) and stop eating, if only for a day or two. It could be a lot of other things, but I would want to take her to a vet for a work up. Hepatic lipidosis is usually very serious. I worry about it any time a cat stops eating.”
In this article, we will discuss the possible reasons behind the cat’s symptoms and provide some helpful insights. We will cover the following topics:
1. Common Causes of Vomiting in Cats
Vomiting in cats can stem from various reasons, including dietary changes, hairballs, and gastrointestinal issues. For a more in-depth look at what may cause a cat to vomit, take a look at our article on Why is My Cat Vomiting?. In the case of the concerned pet owner’s cat, vomiting white foam suggests that the cat might not have any food in its stomach, causing it to throw up bile. Introducing new cats into the household, as mentioned by the owner, might have generated stress, leading to loss of appetite and vomiting. However, it is essential to remember that there might be other underlying conditions causing these symptoms.
2. Stress and Its Effects on a Cat’s Health
Cats are naturally territorial creatures, and the introduction of new animals in their environment can lead to stress. This stress may manifest in several ways, including loss of appetite, lethargy, and vomiting. Stress can also trigger a more severe condition called hepatic lipidosis, which is associated with liver disease. To learn more about hepatic lipidosis and its symptoms, have a read through our article on Liver Disease in Cats. Common Causes, Symptoms, and What to Expect. Moreover, stress-induced loss of appetite is not the only reason for your cat’s liver problems. Kidney disease is another potential cause of a decreased appetite and increased thirst in cats. Delve into our article about Kidney Disease in Cats to learn more about the signs and treatments of this condition.
3. How to Help Your Cat Overcome Stress and Regain Its Appetite
It is crucial to monitor your cat’s behavior and ensure its well-being during a stressful time. Here are some steps to ease your cat’s stress and encourage it to eat:
- Create a calm and quiet environment: Designate a space in your home for your cat to retreat and relax, away from other animals, disturbances, or loud noises.
- Encourage water intake: Cats can become dehydrated when they are not eating, making it essential to monitor their water consumption. You can entice them to drink water by providing fresh water in multiple locations or invest in a water fountain that will attract your cat. For more information, check out our article on Why Does My Cat Drink More Water?
- Introduce a high-quality diet: If your cat is not eating due to stress, consider providing delicious and easily digestible meals that will tempt your feline friend.
- Separate new pets during feeding: Ensure your cat receives its meals in a separate area where it feels safe, away from other pets.
- Consult a veterinarian: If your cat’s loss of appetite and vomiting persists, seek professional help from a veterinarian. They can perform a thorough evaluation, run diagnostic tests, and recommend the best treatment for your cat.
In conclusion, stress can cause various symptoms in cats, including vomiting and loss of appetite. However, it is crucial to bear in mind that other underlying health conditions might also cause these signs. As a responsible pet owner, be attentive to your cat’s needs, monitor its behavior, and seek help from a veterinarian if necessary. Remember, your cat’s well-being is in your hands.
