Vomiting

Vomiting can be caused by a wide range of problems from simple gastrointestinal upsets due to eating an unfamiliar food, to kidney disease, diabetes or gastrointestinal obstruction. Any pet that vomits frequently or over an extended time period, acts lethargic or sickly, or has a history of ingesting unknown materials should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Assessment of your pet for the cause of vomiting begins with a thorough physical examination. Additional diagnostic tests such as abdominal x-rays and blood tests are often indicated to help get a diagnosis.

One of the most serious consequences of vomiting, regardless of the cause, is that a pet can become dehydrated due to fluid loss. In these cases, intravenous fluid replacement therapy is needed. Vomiting animals often need to be treated in the hospital overnight, as they cannot tolerate oral medications. Specific treatment is dictated by the cause of the vomiting and can range from symptomatic care to aggressive surgical or medical intervention.