Dear VetBabble: What to Do If My Pet Pants, Shakes, and Vomits Suddenly?
If your pet suddenly begins panting, shaking, and throwing up, it can be quite alarming. This can be especially concerning if your pet has shown no symptoms until now and has had a health issue, such as a urinary tract infection, in the past. What should you do if this happens to your 6-year-old pet? Can you rest the stomach for a few hours and offer a small amount of water? What about offering plain boiled chicken and rice later on? Let’s explore what actions can be taken and when you should consult with your veterinarian.
Assessing Your Pet’s Condition
If your pet has only thrown up once and seems bright and well otherwise, it might not be a cause for immediate panic. Many pets experience occasional episodes of vomiting and shaking, which can be triggered by a temporary upset stomach. In most cases, vomiting can be managed at home with a few simple steps.
That said, it is essential to closely monitor your pet’s condition and look for additional symptoms, especially diarrhea, which could indicate a more severe issue. If you notice any additional concerning symptoms or if the vomiting becomes more frequent, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Managing Vomiting and Providing Comfort at Home
First and foremost, it is important to rest your pet’s stomach for a few hours by withholding food. You can still offer a small amount of water during this time to ensure that your pet doesn’t become dehydrated. This period of fasting should help settle your pet’s stomach and reduce the likelihood of further vomiting. You can refer to these helpful articles, ‘Vomiting in Dogs: Causes, Treatment & When to Worry‘ and ‘Why is My Cat Vomiting?‘, if you need more guidance on managing vomiting in your pet.
After a few hours have passed, you can reintroduce food in the form of a bland meal, such as plain boiled chicken (no skin or bones) and rice. This simple meal is easy on your pet’s stomach and should be less likely to induce vomiting. Offer a small portion and observe whether your pet is able to keep it down. If your pet’s vomiting does not cease or if diarrhea is also present, make sure to consult your veterinarian. You can refer to these articles, ‘Diarrhea in Dogs: When to Worry‘ and ‘Why Does My Dog Have Diarrhea?‘, to help you understand the possible causes and when to be concerned.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
Although occasional vomiting and shaking can often be managed at home, it’s important to keep a close eye on your pet and be prepared to contact your veterinarian if the situation worsens or additional symptoms appear. Here are some scenarios when you should reach out to your veterinarian:
- Your pet’s vomiting is persistent and frequent, even after resting their stomach and offering bland food
- The vomiting is accompanied by diarrhea or other concerning symptoms, such as lethargy, weakness, or blood in the vomit or stool
- Your pet has a pre-existing health condition that may be worsening the symptoms
- Any time you are unsure about your pet’s condition or the best course of action
In conclusion, if your pet suddenly starts panting, shaking, and vomiting, it is essential to closely monitor their condition and seek veterinary advice if the situation doesn’t improve or worsens. In most cases, you can help your pet recover by resting their stomach, offering water and a bland meal, and maintaining a close eye on their overall well-being.
