Comprehensive Guide: 50+ Reasons for Cat Vomiting Expla
Understanding the Causes of Cat Vomiting
01. Megaoesophagus/Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis
When food moves too quickly through the esophagus, or if the food particles are too large, it can lead to an uncomfortable journey to the stomach, resulting in undigested food being regurgitated. If your cat is a "bulldozer eater" or tends to scarf down meals, consider investing in a slowfeeding bowl to help them eat more gradually.
02. Foreign Body Obstruction
Cats may ingest nondigestible items like plastic bags, fabric, threads, slippers, toys, or bells, which can obstruct the intestines and cause persistent vomiting. If vomiting occurs more than five times a day, it's a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary attention.
03. Hairball Syndrome
After grooming, hair can accumulate in a cat's stomach, leading to vomiting. Keep a deshedding gel and a brush on hand to help manage this common issue.
04. Indigestion/Food Allergies
Overeating, allergies to certain foods, or eating unfamiliar items can trigger diarrhea. Switching to a slowfeeding bowl and changing the diet may help.
05. Intestinal Obstruction
Besides vomiting, signs of intestinal obstruction include decreased appetite and activity, pain when the stomach is touched, and possibly blood in the stool. Seek veterinary care immediately.
06. Poisoning
Ingestion of pesticides, herbicides, certain plants (like poinsettias, onions, garlic, aloe vera, lilies, etc.), can cause vomiting. If you suspect your cat has ingested something toxic, identify the substance and rush them to the vet for emergency care.
07. Kidney Disease
Lack of appetite, vomiting bile or stomach acid, and in severe cases, seizures or multiorgan failure, can be signs of kidney disease. Immediate veterinary care is essential.
08. Parasitic Infection
Infestations with hookworms or roundworms can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and malnutrition due to poor nutrient absorption. Regular deworming is crucial to prevent these issues.
09. Tumors
Lymphoma or other tumors can lead to vomiting, along with symptoms like fever, weight loss, and decreased appetite. Seek veterinary care immediately.
10. Pancreatitis
Cats with pancreatitis may vomit due to secondary infections affecting the intestines. The condition often arises from injury, infection, or low blood pressure. Chronic pancreatitis is usually mild, but acute cases can be severe, with symptoms like lethargy, decreased appetite, dehydration, jaundice, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, diarrhea, and fever. Vomiting can occur up to 35 times daily or more frequently. Immediate veterinary care is necessary, and a prescription diet may be recommended.
11. Kidney Disease
Acute or chronic kidney disease can cause vomiting due to the irritation of the intestinal mucosa. Symptoms are more pronounced in acute kidney failure, including decreased appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Immediate veterinary care and a prescription diet are essential.
12. Protein Allergies
Modern cats, often bred for specific bloodlines, may have sensitive stomachs due to inbreeding and high protein content in commercial dry food. This can lead to frequent vomiting and soft stools. It's important to experiment with different diets and closely monitor your cat's response to find the right food.
If your cat is vomiting due to hairballs, you can try giving them a deshedding gel, cat grass, egg yolks, and regular grooming. However, not all cats regurgitate hairballs. If your cat vomits frequently, more than five times a week, and shows signs of decreased appetite, weakness, or weight loss, it's crucial to take them to the vet for a checkup. It's also recommended that cats without vomiting issues undergo an Xray examination once a year, as problems can often require surgical intervention.
Vomiting is a natural mechanism in cats, but diarrhea should never be taken lightly. If your cat experiences diarrhea, seek veterinary care immediately. The diarrhea referred to here is watery and not formed. If your cat has frequent soft stools, it may indicate a mild intestinal inflammation, and you can use probiotics like普安特的活性益生菌 as a daily aid. For any other concerns, consult with an online veterinary expert.