What to Do When Cats Vomit? 5 Home Remedies For Cat Vomiting

What to Do When Cats Vomit?

While it’s not the most pleasant subject, it’s an important one.

Understanding why your cat might vomit and what you can do about it can help you ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy.

Understanding Cat Vomiting 🤔

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that vomiting in cats can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the more common causes include hairballs, ingesting something disagreeable (like a piece of a plant or spoiled food), food intolerance or allergies, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and various metabolic diseases like liver or kidney disease.

If your cat has been vomiting off and on for a number of weeks, or if they suddenly start vomiting acutely, it’s essential to assess how serious the situation is. Is your cat still fairly alert, active, eating, and drinking? If so, they might be a good candidate for a home remedy. However, if your cat is lethargic, appears dehydrated, or shows other signs of serious illness, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care immediately.

Assessing Dehydration in Your Cat 💧

One key factor in determining whether your cat’s vomiting is a serious issue is assessing whether they are dehydrated. You can do this by checking two things: skin elasticity and gum moisture.

To check skin elasticity, gently pinch a fold of your cat’s skin (usually on the back of the neck is easiest). In a well-hydrated cat, the skin should spring back into place immediately. If the skin stays “tented” or takes a few seconds to return to normal, your cat may be dehydrated.

Checking gum moisture involves lifting your cat’s lip and feeling the gums. They should be moist and slick. If they feel dry or tacky, this could be a sign of dehydration.

Treating Hairballs 🐾

Hairballs are one of the most common causes of vomiting in cats. Cats groom themselves constantly, and in the process, they often ingest a lot of hair. This is especially true for long-haired cats or cats that shed excessively.

If your cat is vomiting hairballs, there are a few things you can do. First, ensure they are on a high-quality diet, preferably canned food rather than dry kibble. This can help reduce shedding and thus the amount of hair your cat ingests. Regular grooming can also help by removing excess hair.

A simple home remedy for hairballs is petroleum jelly. Giving your cat about a quarter of an inch of petroleum jelly on your finger twice a day for three to five days can help them pass the hairball.

Dealing with Dietary Issues 🍽️

If your cat has eaten something disagreeable or has a food intolerance or allergy, this can also cause vomiting. The most common allergens for cats are fish and dairy, but there are many potential culprits.

In these cases, a simple remedy is chamomile or peppermint tea. Brew a strong cup of tea, let it cool, and give your cat about a teaspoon of the tea two to three times a day. This can help soothe their stomach and reduce vomiting.

Addressing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) 🏥

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a more complex cause of vomiting in cats. This condition involves the cat’s immune system reacting to something they’ve ingested, causing inflammation in the intestinal tract.

If your cat has IBD, one herb that can be beneficial is curcumin. Giving your cat about 100 milligrams of curcumin per 10 pounds of body weight twice daily can help manage IBD symptoms.

Over-the-Counter Medication 💊

Lastly, there’s an over-the-counter medication called famotidine, sold under the brand name Pepcid, which can be helpful for cats with ongoing vomiting, particularly those with chronic kidney disease. The typical dose is 2.5 to 5 milligrams, or about a quarter of a 10 milligram tablet, two to three times a day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓

1. How often is it normal for a cat to vomit?

While occasional vomiting may not be a cause for concern, frequent or chronic vomiting can be a sign of a serious health issue. If your cat vomits more than once a week, it’s a good idea to consult with a vet.

2. Can I give my cat human medication to stop vomiting?

Never give your cat medication without consulting a vet first. Some human medications can be toxic to cats.

3. What should I feed my cat after it vomits?

After vomiting, it’s best to let your cat’s stomach rest for a while (usually for about 24 hours). After that, you can start feeding your cat a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and rice, in small amounts.

4. Should I change my cat’s diet if it’s vomiting frequently?

If your cat is vomiting frequently, it could be due to a food intolerance or allergy. However, you should consult with a vet before making any major changes to your cat’s diet.

The Botton Line 🎯

Remember, if your cat is vomiting, it’s important to assess the seriousness of the situation and seek veterinary care if necessary.

However, for less serious cases, these home remedies can be a great way to help your cat feel better. Always keep an eye on your cat’s behavior and health, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure.

For more information on cat health and behavior, check out our other articles on why cats have watery eyes and what to do when your cat is in heat.

Stay tuned to pawsadviser.com for more pet health tips and advice. Remember, we’re here to help you make the best decisions for your pets.