Is vomiting and diarrhea in cats an emergency?
Vomiting and diarrhea: An emergency for a dog or cat?
Take precautions
The first step is to stop feeding food and only give water in small sips frequently and in small amounts if your pet is vomiting or diarrhea... If your pet continues to vomit, you should seek veterinary advice. Self-limiting diarrhea should normally subside in 2-3 days. If your pet is unwell, there are important situations where you should not wait 24 hours before speaking to your veterinarian.
Call your veterinarian if:
- If your pet is very young or very old (as these age groups can lose water very quickly)
- If your pet has an existing health condition such as diabetes
- If your pet is currently taking medication. Ask for advice on whether it is appropriate to discontinue this medication while your pet has vomiting problems.
- If you notice blood in your diarrhea or vomiting, or if the material that comes out has a black, tar-like appearance
- If your pet seems extremely miserable, depressed, or if their gums feel dry and sticky
- If your pet's belly begins to swell or your pet begins to whimper or spasm. Swelling can be a sign of a serious problem – so if you notice this you should call your veterinarian immediately.
One last piece of advice – call your veterinarian before taking your unwell pet to the clinic. If he suspects your pet may infect other animals, he or she may ask you to stay in a different waiting room.
