Almost all cats vomit at some point in their lives, and vomiting is one of the most common reasons why people take their cats to the veterinarian. While vomiting can be caused by a wide variety of problems, this article will discuss six of the most common causes of vomiting in cats. These include chronic gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), food reactions and intolerances, foreign objects, kidney disease, and parasites (e.g. nematodes).
1. Chronic Gastritis
One of the most common reasons for vomiting in cats is chronic gastritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach lining. Cats with chronic gastritis may vomit up to once or twice a week, and the vomiting may be accompanied by a loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy, and poor body condition. Most cases of chronic gastritis in cats are idiopathic which means that the exact cause is unknown. However, some possible causes include viral infections, bacterial infections, food allergies, and toxins.
Treatment for chronic gastritis typically involves identifying and treating the underlying cause. For the most common form of chronic gastritis, idiopathic, treatment may include corticosteroids, dietary changes, and supportive therapy with antacids. If your cat has chronic gastritis, it's best to feed them small meals frequently throughout the day. The food should be highly digestible and low in both fibre and fat. In some cases, a limited ingredient diet or hypoallergenic diet may be beneficial.
2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Another common cause of vomiting in cats is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD in cats is a condition in which the lining of the intestine becomes inflamed, and can often lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Given the degree of maldigestion and malabsorption of nutrients, cats with IBD often have an appetite that is normal to increase. IBD is a chronic condition, meaning it can last for months or even years. The exact cause of IBD in cats is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by an abnormal immune response to either food or the normal bacteria present in the intestine.
Treatment for IBD typically involves both medical and dietary therapy. Medical therapy may include corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, antibiotics, and probiotics. Dietary therapy for IBD typically involves feeding your cat a hypoallergenic diet or limited ingredient diet. These diets are designed to be highly digestible and low in both fibre and fat.
3. Food Reactions and Intolerances
Food reactions and intolerances are another common cause of vomiting in cats. Cats can be allergic or intolerant to many different ingredients in their food, including proteins, carbohydrates, and even additives. The most common signs of a food allergy or intolerance are vomiting and/or diarrhea. In some cases, itching and skin problems may also be seen. Interestingly, food reactions can occur at any time, even if the cat has been eating the same food for months to years.
If you suspect your cat has a food allergy or intolerance, the best course of action is to speak with your veterinarian. They will likely recommend switching your cat to a hypoallergenic diet or a limited ingredient diet.
4. Foreign Objects
Cats are curious creatures, and sometimes this curiosity can lead to them swallowing things that they shouldn't. Foreign bodies are a common cause of vomiting in cats, and the objects most commonly swallowed include string, yarn, and small toys and objects. If your cat has swallowed a foreign body, it's important to seek veterinary attention immediately as they can cause serious gastrointestinal blockages. Treatment for foreign body ingestion typically involves surgical removal of the object.
5. Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is another common cause of vomiting in cats. Kidney disease is a condition in which the kidneys are unable to properly filter toxins from the blood. As a result, these toxins build up in the body and can lead to vomiting, weight loss, increased thirst and urination, and lethargy. In some cases, kidney disease can also lead to anemia.
Treatment for kidney disease typically involves aggressive supportive care. This may include fluid therapy, and medications to control vomiting and nausea. In some cases, a special diet may also be recommended.
6. Parasites
Finally, parasites are another common cause of vomiting in cats. Parasites such as roundworms and tapeworms can often be present without any visible signs in the vomit or stool. Although more common in kittens, cats of any age and even indoor cats can suffer from parasitic causes of chronic vomiting in cats. Common symptoms of parasitic intestinal infection include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, poor haircoat and sometimes a pot-bellied abdomen.
The treatment for intestinal parasites in cats is straightforward and typically involves giving your cat a dewormer medication. In some cases, multiple doses may be necessary, repeated every 2-3 weeks.
If your cat is vomiting, it's important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. There are many different potential causes of vomiting in cats including gastritis, dietary reactions and intolerances, IBD, foreign objects, kidney disease, and parasites. In most cases, vomiting can be controlled with medical therapy and/or dietary changes. We hope this information has been helpful. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian.