What to feed a cat when it vomits? - briefly
When your cat vomits, avoid feeding it for several hours to allow its stomach to settle. After this period, introduce a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken and rice in small amounts to help soothe the digestive system.
What to feed a cat when it vomits? - in detail
When a cat vomits, it's essential to approach their feeding with care and caution. Vomiting can be caused by various factors such as hairballs, eating too quickly, or ingesting something toxic. Regardless of the cause, ensuring your cat receives proper nutrition while allowing their stomach time to recover is crucial.
Firstly, it's important to withhold food for a short period after vomiting. This allows the digestive system to rest and can help reduce further irritation. A good rule of thumb is to wait at least 12 hours before reintroducing food. During this time, make sure your cat has access to fresh water to prevent dehydration.
Once the initial waiting period has passed, gradually reintroduce food in small amounts. Start with a bland diet that is easy on the stomach. Some suitable options include:
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Boiled Chicken and Rice: This combination is commonly recommended by veterinarians for cats with upset stomachs. Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly and remove any bones before serving. Mix it with white rice in a 50/50 ratio.
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Baby Food: Plain, unseasoned baby food can be an acceptable temporary alternative. Opt for varieties that are meat-based and do not contain onion or garlic powder, which are toxic to cats.
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Hill's Prescription Diet i/d: This is a specialized diet designed for cats with digestive issues. It is available in both wet and dry forms and can be obtained from your veterinarian.
When feeding your cat after vomiting, follow these guidelines:
- Offer small, frequent meals rather than one or two large ones. This helps to prevent overeating and reduces the risk of further upsetting the stomach.
- Avoid giving your cat their regular food immediately. Gradually reintroduce it over a period of 24-48 hours, mixing it with the bland diet in increasing proportions until they are back on their normal diet.
- Monitor your cat's condition closely. If vomiting persists or worsens, contact your veterinarian immediately. Prolonged vomiting can lead to dehydration and other serious complications.
Additionally, consider the following tips:
- Ensure that your cat is drinking enough water. Dehydration can exacerbate symptoms of an upset stomach. You may need to encourage them to drink by adding a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth to their water or using an ice cube as a treat.
- Keep your cat's environment clean and calm. Stress can also contribute to digestive issues in cats.
- Be cautious with treats and table scraps, which can often be too rich for a sensitive stomach.
In summary, when a cat vomits, it is essential to withhold food temporarily and then reintroduce it gradually with a bland diet. Monitoring your cat's condition closely and consulting a veterinarian if necessary are vital steps in ensuring their health and well-being.