The cat vomits, what to give? - briefly
If your cat is vomiting, it's important to first withhold food for a few hours to allow their stomach to rest. After that, you can offer a small amount of water or an electrolyte solution to help prevent dehydration. If the vomiting continues or worsens, consult a veterinarian immediately.
The cat vomits, what to give? - in detail
When a cat vomits, it can be due to various reasons ranging from minor issues to more serious health problems. Here's how to approach the situation:
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Assess the Severity: If your cat is vomiting once or twice and appears otherwise healthy, it might not be an emergency. However, if the vomiting is frequent, accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite, or other symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, or difficulty breathing, seek veterinary care immediately.
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Check for Foreign Objects: Cats are known to ingest non-food items such as string, ribbon, or small toys. If you suspect your cat has ingested something it shouldn't have, call your vet right away. Do not attempt to induce vomiting without professional guidance.
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Hydration: Vomiting can lead to dehydration. Offer your cat small amounts of water frequently to prevent this. You can also provide ice chips or a little unflavored Pedialyte if available. Avoid giving milk as it can cause further stomach upset in cats.
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Gradual Reintroduction of Food: After a few hours without vomiting, you can try offering a small amount of bland food to see if your cat can keep it down. Boiled chicken and rice are commonly recommended. Start with very small portions and gradually increase the amount over 24-48 hours if there's no further vomiting.
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Monitor Behavior: Keep an eye on your cat's behavior and appetite. If vomiting continues or worsens, or if you notice other concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian.
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Prevent Access to Potential Irritants: While waiting for the vet or trying to resolve the issue at home, keep your cat away from anything that might further irritate its stomach, such as strong-smelling foods, chemicals, or plants.
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Veterinary Care: If the vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, or if you notice blood in the vomit, seek professional veterinary help. Your vet can perform a thorough examination and may recommend tests like blood work, urinalysis, or imaging to determine the underlying cause.
In summary, while occasional vomiting might resolve on its own with rest and hydration, persistent or severe symptoms always warrant a trip to the vet. Cats are excellent at hiding illness, so it's better to err on the side of caution when it comes to their health.