Cat Diarrhea and Vomiting: Everything You Never Wanted to Know

It’s official…the litter box is ruined! Your kitty is up to double trouble with diarrhea and vomiting. It’s cleanup time and it’s the best time to read on to learn more about what’s going on with your cat.   

First things first, always reach out to a vet if you’re concerned about your cat’s health so that they can help identify and treat the exact cause right away. At Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG), you can call and speak with a doctor right away.

TUMMY TROUBLES: 6 REASONS FOR CAT DIARRHEA AND VOMITING

Vomiting and diarrhea can be uncomfortable and concerning for cats. While the symptoms often clear up on their own, some situations may require a visit to the emergency vet. So, let’s claw our way through the causes for these illnesses, and how to know if your feline friend needs immediate care.

1. A-HEM, A-HEM: HAIRBALLS

Yes, one of the most common reasons why cats vomit is hairballs. If a large clump of hair comes up with your kitty’s throw up, you’ll know the culprit. Sometimes, hairballs can also give your cat diarrhea, but that should clear up after one or two poops. 

A word of caution: You want to be careful labeling your cat’s coughing as simply “bringing up a hairball.” Talk to your vet if you notice Fluffy is hacking or gagging a lot without spitting out a hairball.

2. UGH: STOMACH VIRUSES

This is a moderate to severe problem that needs to be diagnosed by a vet ASAP. Kittens and cats who aren’t fully vaxxed are the ones who most commonly catch a stomach virus.

3. FROM YUM TO YUCK: FOOD SENSITIVITY

If your cat’s diet fluctuates, food sensitivity may be a potential cause for diarrhea and vomiting. This can occur when you:  

• Switch their diet 
• Let them eat table scraps 
• Feed them new treats

This can cause your kitty to experience some short-term vomiting and diarrhea due to sensitivity or possibly a food allergy. 

4. GET OUT!: PARASITES

Another possible reason behind your cat’s vomiting-diarrhea combo could be digestive parasites. These parasites, aka “worms,” can cause other symptoms like:

• Appetite changes
• Behavioral issues
• Distended belly
• Weight loss, and more 

It’s important to stay on top of this by visiting your veterinarian, because only a vet can diagnose and treat this condition in cats.

5. OH, POOP!: POISON

Throwing up and diarrhea occurs when a cat ingests something that’s toxic, such as poisonous plants. 

Vomiting and diarrhea will be some of the first symptoms of poisoning. Your cat’s condition will likely deteriorate quickly, so getting to a VEG hospital or your nearest emergency vet promptly is crucial.

6. TRAFFIC JAM: INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

A very serious matter, this can happen if your cat accidentally swallows parts of a toy or other small object. This can lead to a blockage in the intestines, which can damage the digestive system and quickly become fatal.

WHEN YOU GOTTA GO, YOU GOTTA GO

So, if you’re ever concerned about your cat’s diarrhea and vomiting symptoms, you can always call VEG, where a doctor will answer your questions. Contact VEG if any of the following happen:

IF THERE’S BLOOD IN THE VOMIT AND/OR STOOL

This can indicate a wide range of diseases, illnesses, and health conditions. An ER-trained doctor at VEG will work with you to diagnose the cause and treatment.

IF YOUR CAT CAN’T KEEP WATER DOWN

Cats who are sick and experiencing diarrhea or vomiting won’t want to drink water, but you should absolutely encourage kitty to take a few sips.  

A visit to the emergency vet will help in avoiding dehydration, which can quickly become fatal for cats. 

IF YOUR CAT IS UNRESPONSIVE

Go to the emergency vet right away. This is a clear sign that your cat is experiencing a major health crisis.

IF IT LASTS OVER 12 HOURS

Diarrhea and vomiting that last this long can quickly lead to severe, even fatal, levels of dehydration. Visit the emergency vet immediately.

IF YOUR CAT HAS NOT EATEN IN OVER 24 HOURS

Cats with tummy troubles usually don’t want to eat. Going without eating for a prolonged period of time can lead to serious health issues (i.e., liver disease) in your cat.

IF YOUR CAT INGESTED SOMETHING TOXIC

If you know or suspect that your cat has swallowed a toxin or foreign object, get to your nearest VEG ASAP.

VEG IS HERE FOR YOU

Figuring out just how serious your feline’s fussy tummy problem is can help you make the right decisions. 

Our nation-wide VEG locations have emergency vets available 24/7 to make sure your cat receives the purrfect care, pronto! Best of all, at VEG, you can stay with your cat all throughout treatment.