Vomiting is a common problem with dogs and cats. Because it happens often and there are many factors that can lead to vomiting, it is helpful for a pet owner to know the possible causes and treatments for the condition.
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Vomiting in Dogs
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There are many causes of vomiting in dogs. Eating too fast, eating trash, parasites, motion sickness and food allergies are common causes. Secondary causes include kidney failure due to poisoning or severe dehydration, liver failure or bladder obstruction. Pancreatitis, Addison's disease and diseases of the inner ear also may lead to vomiting.
Caring for Your Dog
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Treatment for less serious bouts of vomiting includes fasting, and a minimal amount of fluids to prevent dehydration in your dog. Food should be avoided for 24 to 48 hours and water for 24 hours. When vomiting subsides, small amounts of a bland, low-fat food may be added gradually to your dog's diet three to five times daily. Water may be reintroduced in small amounts on day two.
Vomiting in Cats
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Vomiting is a natural reflex for cats. Its causes include minor stomach issues to coughing up hairballs. Eating too much or too quickly, as well as eating grass and garbage, ulcers of the stomach, stomach or upper intestinal cancer, parasites and food allergies are also primary causes of vomiting in cats.
Caring For Your Cat
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Remove food from your cat for 24 hours, or until its stomach has calmed down. Feed it a bland diet when the problem begins to subside. Give it a minimal amount of water, enough to keep your cat hydrated. You can also allow your cat to lick ice.
When to Call the Veterinarian for Your Dog or Cat
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If blood, foreign objects, worms or feces exist in your pet's vomit, call your veterinarian. In addition, projectile vomiting, frequent vomiting and escalating vomiting requires a visit to the vet.
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