Why Is My Pet Vomiting? A Vet’s Guide

As pet owners, few things are more distressing than seeing our beloved companions unwell. One of the most common questions we hear at Shallowford Animal Hospital is, “Why is my pet vomiting?” It’s a concern that sends a ripple of worry through any pet parent, and for good reason. Vomiting can be a simple, one-time issue or a sign of something more serious. If you’re concerned about your pet, please don’t hesitate to call us at (336) 945-4412 for immediate guidance.

Why is My Pet Vomiting? Understanding the Signs

When your pet vomits, it’s natural to feel alarmed. Your first step is to observe your pet and the situation closely. This information is invaluable for our veterinary team. Note the frequency of the vomiting, what the vomit looks like, and any other accompanying signs. These details help us distinguish between a minor issue and something that requires immediate medical attention.

Common Pet Vomiting Causes in Dogs and Cats

Vomiting is a symptom, not a disease, and the list of potential causes is long. Understanding the most common reasons can help you assess the situation. Whether you’re asking “why is my dog vomiting?” after a walk or “why is my cat vomiting?” after a meal, the triggers often overlap.

Dietary Indiscretion

This is a formal way of saying your pet ate something it shouldn’t have. Dogs are particularly famous for this, consuming everything from garbage and table scraps to non-food items. Cats might nibble on toxic houseplants or find a discarded scrap. A sudden change in their diet can also lead to an upset stomach.

Food Allergies or Intolerances

Just like people, pets can develop sensitivities to certain ingredients in their food. This can cause chronic, intermittent vomiting.

Parasites

Internal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and giardia are common culprits, especially in younger pets. These organisms irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to vomiting and other digestive issues.

Infections

Viral infections (like parvovirus in dogs) and bacterial infections can cause significant gastrointestinal upset, including severe vomiting.

Foreign Objects

Sometimes, pets swallow things they can’t digest, such as pieces of a toy, socks, or bones. These can cause a blockage in the stomach or intestines, which is a serious medical emergency.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Chronic vomiting can be a sign of a more significant health problem. Kidney disease, liver disease, pancreatitis, and even certain types of cancer can present with vomiting as a primary symptom.

Pet Vomiting: When to See a Vet

A single episode of vomiting isn’t always a cause for panic, but certain signs should prompt you to call us right away. Knowing when pet vomiting is an emergency can make all the difference in your pet’s outcome.

Here are key warning signs to watch for:

• Persistent Vomiting: If your pet vomits multiple times in a few hours or continues to vomit for more than a day.
• Blood in the Vomit: This can look like bright red streaks or dark, coffee-ground-like material.
• Accompanying Symptoms: Lethargy, weakness, loss of appetite, pale gums, or abdominal pain are all red flags.
• Dehydration: Signs include sunken eyes, dry gums, and a lack of skin elasticity.
• Vomiting and Diarrhea: The combination of both can lead to rapid dehydration and indicates a more significant problem.
• Non-productive Vomiting: If your pet is trying to vomit but nothing is coming up (retching), this can be a sign of a life-threatening condition called bloat, especially in large-breed dogs.

Young puppies, kittens, and senior pets are more vulnerable to the effects of vomiting and dehydration. If your pet falls into one of these categories, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and contact us.

What to Do If My Pet Is Vomiting

If your pet has vomited but otherwise seems bright and alert, there are a few steps you can take at home. First, temporarily withhold food for about 12 hours to allow their stomach to rest. Make sure they still have access to fresh water in small amounts to prevent dehydration.

After the resting period, you can try offering a small amount of a bland diet. A simple meal of boiled, unseasoned chicken and plain white rice is often gentle on the stomach. If they keep this down, you can offer small, frequent meals of the bland diet for a day or two before gradually transitioning back to their regular food.

However, home care is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If the vomiting persists or if you notice any of the urgent pet upset stomach symptoms mentioned above, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care.

How Shallowford Animal Hospital Can Help

When you bring your pet to us, we start with a thorough physical examination and a discussion about their recent history. To determine the cause of the vomiting, we may recommend diagnostic tests. Our in-house diagnostics allow us to get results quickly, which is critical in an emergency. These tests may include blood work, fecal analysis to check for parasites, or imaging like X-rays or ultrasound to look for foreign objects or other abnormalities.

Once we have a diagnosis, we will create a personalized treatment plan for your pet. This could range from anti-nausea medication and fluid therapy for dehydration to more intensive treatments like surgery for an intestinal blockage or management of a chronic disease. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to get your companion feeling better as quickly as possible.

Ready to Help Your Pet Feel Better? Contact Us Today!

It’s difficult seeing your four-legged family member in distress, and the question of “Why is my pet vomiting?” can be scary. Our team at Shallowford Animal Hospital is here to provide the answers and expert care you need. If you’re concerned about your pet’s health, please call us at (336) 945-4412 or schedule an appointment with us today.