Pet vomiting isn't always a cause for concern, but it can be a symptom of many serious health issues. That's why it's important to monitor your pet closely and discuss its symptoms with your veterinarian. At Pasquotank Animal Hospital in Elizabeth City, we can diagnose the cause of your pet's vomiting and find the right treatment.
Vomiting vs Regurgitation
While people usually use the word "vomiting" to describe vomiting and regurgitation, they're actually two different things. Vomiting occurs when a pet forcefully ejects the contents of its stomach. Usually, vomit includes digested food as well as fluid and it's typically accompanied by nausea symptoms. While vomiting is forceful, regurgitation is passive. Food that is regurgitated hasn't been digested yet. When a pet regurgitates food or other substances, it may show other symptoms, like coughing.
Causes of Pet Vomiting
Many issues can cause a pet to vomit. Some of these issues are minor, but others are serious, which is why pets that are repeatedly vomiting should see a veterinarian. Common causes of vomiting in pets include:
- Eating a toxic or irritating substance
- Intestinal obstructions
- Changes in diet
- Constipation
- Urinary tract infections
- Viruses
- Bacterial infections
- Intestinal parasites
- Allergic reactions
- Heatstroke
- Liver or kidney failure
- Pancreatitis
- Parvovirus
- Colitis
When to See a Veterinarian
If your pet vomits once and isn't showing any other concerning health symptoms, likely, the vomiting isn't a serious issue. While you don't need to call a vet, it's a good idea to monitor your pet and keep an eye out for other symptoms.
Vomiting is more likely to be a serious concern if your pet repeatedly vomits in one day or continues to vomit for several days in a row. You should also talk to your vet if the vomiting is accompanied by symptoms such as:
- Changes in thirst or appetite
- More frequent urination
- Dry retching
- Lethargy
- Falling or collapsing
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Black vomiting
- Pale gums
- Signs of discomfort and distress
Talk to Our Veterinarians in Elizabeth City, NC
It's normal to be concerned if your pet is vomiting. If your pet has been vomiting repeatedly, or if the vomiting is accompanied by other symptoms, reach out to Pasquotank Animal Hospital. We will let you know if your pet needs to come in for treatment. Call our team today at (252) 264-3371.