Dear VetBabble: Why Is My Cat Throwing Up, and How Can I Help?
I have a 3-year-old cat named Cloe who keeps vomiting. I’m not sure if it’s due to a severe stomach illness, eating something rotten, having a foreign body, or possibly pancreatitis. Is there a home remedy I can try to help her? What should I do if her condition worsens? I’m worried about my furry friend! Thanks for your guidance.
Understanding Cat Vomiting
Vomiting in cats is quite common and can occur for various reasons. As a pet owner, it’s essential to know the potential causes and what you can do to help your feline friend. One common reason for vomiting in cats is dietary indiscretion, which means they might have eaten something they shouldn’t have. Cats are also known to throw up hairballs, especially if they groom themselves frequently. However, there are more severe causes like gastrointestinal issues, pancreatitis, infections, and foreign bodies. It’s essential to keep an eye on your cat and seek veterinary advice if their condition worsens or persists. For more information, check out this helpful resource on Why is My Cat Vomiting?
Home Remedies for Cat Vomiting and Dietary Care
If your cat is experiencing mild vomiting, you can try a home remedy to see if it helps. Start by withholding food for 12 hours to give her stomach a chance to settle. After this period, feed her a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken (boneless) in small amounts several times a day for a couple of days. This simple meal should be easy on her stomach and help regulate her digestive system.
Monitor your cat’s condition closely during this time. If her vomiting continues in the absence of food, she refuses to eat the bland diet, or if she vomits the bland diet, you should consider seeking veterinary advice. Also, keep an eye on Cloe’s water consumption. If she stops drinking water or starts vomiting water, this is a cause for concern. For more information on what to do if your cat won’t eat, see this article on My Cat Won’t Eat! What Should I Do?
When to Seek Veterinary Advice
If your cat’s vomiting persists or worsens, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian. Vomiting in cats can sometimes be a sign of a more serious health issue, such as a foreign body or pancreatitis. Foreign bodies are objects your cat has ingested that could cause blockages in their gastrointestinal tract, leading to severe complications. If you suspect your cat may have swallowed something she shouldn’t have, read more about Foreign Bodies in pets to learn how to address this issue.
Another serious cause of vomiting in cats is pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary care. Common symptoms include vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, and lethargy. If your cat is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek veterinary help as soon as possible.
In conclusion, while vomiting in cats can be due to various causes, it is essential to monitor your cat’s condition and try a home remedy like withholding food and offering a bland diet. However, it’s crucial to seek veterinary advice if your cat’s condition worsens or you suspect a more serious issue, such as a foreign body or pancreatitis. Ultimately, the health and well-being of your furry friend depend on your vigilance and swift action when necessary. For more information on vomiting in pets, you may also refer to this article on Vomiting in Dogs: Causes, Treatment & When to Worry.
