Is your cat vomiting frequently? Regular vomiting in cats is NOT normal. I see many cats that are vomiting anywhere from a few times per month to multiple times weekly. Unfortunately, many cat lovers have been told that this frequency is normal. As a holistic veterinarian, I’m here to shed light on the various reasons for cat vomiting and provide insights into what you can do about it.
Table of Contents
1. Inappropriate Diet – The Culprit Behind Kibble Woes
One common reason for cat vomiting is an inappropriate diet, usually kibble. Cats need diets that are high in protein and moisture and low in carbohydrates. Kibble, even if grain free, is too high in carbohydrates and low in moisture. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to thrive on a diet rich in animal proteins. I recommend commercially prepared raw or wet food diets.
2. Unmasking Food Sensitivities
Just like their human counterparts, cats can develop food sensitivities that trigger vomiting. These sensitivities often go unnoticed, as symptoms may not appear immediately after consuming the problematic food. A holistic approach involves identifying potential allergens and gradually transitioning your cat to a hypoallergenic diet. Common allergens include animal proteins such as chicken or fish. Try feeding your kitty a novel protein diet like rabbit or venison.
3. The Sneaky Culprits – Intestinal Parasites
Intestinal parasites, such as roundworms and hookworms, can turn your cat’s stomach into a battleground, leading to vomiting. If your kitty spends time outdoors hunting, consider regular deworming to prevent and treat parasitic infections. Holistic remedies, like natural dewormers for cats, may be less effective in controlling parasites.
4. Navigating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a common condition that affects a cat’s digestive system, leading to chronic vomiting. If your veterinarian suspects IBD, they may recommend blood tests, imaging like abdominal ultrasound and intestinal endoscopy. These tests are non-invasive and I recommend completing these when financially feasible. I use a holistic approach including diet, pharmaceuticals, probiotics and other supplements to treat my patients with IBD. You can download my holistic approach to vomiting here.
5. Other Disease: Kidney, Thyroid and Liver Dysfunction.
Cat vomiting can be a red flag for underlying systemic illnesses, such as hyperthyroidism, kidney or liver disease. These three conditions can be easily screened for with routine blood work. If your cat is diagnosed with kidney disease, let me guide you though your treatment options in this downloadable course.
Final Thoughts on Decoding Cat Vomiting
Understanding the reasons behind your cat’s vomiting is the first step towards providing holistic care. Whether it’s a dietary overhaul, addressing food sensitivities, managing parasites, tackling IBD, or navigating systemic illnesses, a holistic veterinarian can guide you through a comprehensive approach to enhance your feline companion’s well-being. Remember, each cat is unique, and a personalized, holistic approach is key to unraveling the mystery of cat vomit and ensuring a happy, healthy life for your furry friend.
I would love to hear from you! You can submit a question below or meet me on Instagram every Wednesday at noon MST.
Love Meow and furever,
Dr. Angie
