Despite what you may have heard, it's not normal for cats to vomit frequently. If your cat throws up more than the occasional hairball, he should be seen by a veterinarian. Frequent vomiting can be a symptom of a serious health problem. Here are some of the most common causes of vomiting in cats and some ways to prevent them
-
Hairballs
-
The best cure for hairballs is prevention. If your cats are prone to hairballs, comb them with a flea or greyhound comb several times a week, and give them a dab of Vaseline or about 1 teaspoon of melted butter every few days. If you use a commercial hairball product, be aware that most have a laxative effect and should be given several hours before or after meals.
Sudden Diet Changes
-
If your cats have eaten the same food for a long time, make changes in their diet very gradually. Add a tiny bite of the new food to the old, and slowly increase the amount of the new food over a period of several days.
Food Allergies
-
Some cats cannot tolerate the corn and grains found in most brands of dry food. Transition your cat to a grain-free brand; even better, switch to an all-wet food diet.
Eating Too Fast
-
Cats are less likely to wolf down food and have it all come back up if they eat several small meals every day or are allowed to free-feed. You can free-feed wet food the same way you do dry.
Chronic Disease
-
Diabetes, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, pancreatitis, liver disease and inflammatory bowel disease can all cause frequent vomiting. If your cat vomits several times a week, make a vet appointment for blood tests.
Medication
-
Antibiotics, thyroid medicine and pain medications can cause vomiting. If your cat's medicine is causing stomach upset, ask your veterinarian for an alternative.
-