Vomiting and diarrhea can be concerning symptoms to see in your pet. There are many potential causes for these signs of upset stomach. Our Queens vets discuss what you should know and what to do if your pet is experiencing vomiting and diarrhea.
Why is My Cat or Dog Vomiting or Having Diarrhea?
Vomiting and diarrhea are two common signs of gastrointestinal upset, which occurs when the intestines or stomach become irritated or inflamed. While it can certainly be concerning, vomiting in your pet isn't always as bad as it might seem; this is your pet's way of emptying its stomach of indigestible material or spoiled food to prevent it from getting deeper into its system.
In contrast, diarrhea often occurs when that indigestible material does make its way through your pet's digestive system is expelled.
Of course, pet owners don't always know for a fact if indigestible material is the root cause of their furry companion's symptoms.
What is Causing My Pet's Vomiting & Diarrhea?
There are several potential causes for vomiting and diarrhea in your dog and cat, including parasites and viruses, a reaction to bad food, or something more serious such as organ issues or cancer.
If your pet continues to vomit or have diarrhea and you're unsure why, contact your vet for an appointment. Depending on the severity of your pet's symptoms, your vet can run diagnostic tests and determine the cause of their stomach issues.
What Should I Do If My Pet Won't Stop Vomiting or Having Diarrhea?
Treatment may be as simple as temporarily withholding food from your pet, or, in more severe circumstances, as complex as chemotherapy or surgery.
While you should always consult your vet on best practices to help your pet first, there are some common at-home treatments that may calm vomiting or diarrhea in some pets:
For Occasional or Infrequent Vomiting
Avoid giving your pet food for 12 hours. You can give them up to 3 tablespoons of water every 30 minutes or provide them with ice cubes in the meantime.
After 12 hours, reintroduce the water bowl. Start feeding with a few teaspoons of bland food. If they can keep it down, feed them a little every hour or two.
If the vomiting stops, you can begin feeding them, as usual, the next day.
For Severe Vomiting
Remove any food that your dog or cat can get into. Inspect your pet for signs of dehydration or shock, including pale skin and gums and abnormal disposition.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.