Vomiting Green Liquid in Cats: Emergency Steps Recommended
Green cat vomit is a common occurrence that pet owners might encounter. This colour is often due to the presence of bile, a greenish digestive fluid, which can regurgitate into the stomach and be vomited when the stomach is empty or irritated.
While green vomit in cats is not always a cause for immediate concern, it's essential to monitor your cat's overall health rather than just the color of the vomit. Chronic vomiting warrants veterinary diagnosis to identify conditions ranging from food allergies and intestinal obstruction to neurological or metabolic diseases.
Vomiting in cats can be caused by various factors, including viruses, ingesting inappropriate food, or bacterial infections. Green foam vomit, for instance, is often a sign of extra gas in the stomach mixing with stomach acid.
Several underlying conditions can lead to persistent vomiting. Dietary issues like skipping meals or anorexia, intestinal blockages, food allergies, parasites, inflammatory bowel disease, organ dysfunction (such as pancreatitis or kidney disease), endocrine disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism), or cancer are potential causes.
If green vomit accompanies other symptoms such as diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss, blood in the vomit, or if vomiting is frequent or chronic, these may signal underlying organ problems or severe illness requiring veterinary care.
Cats may vomit due to foreign bodies, such as fake plants, string, or small pieces of a toy. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in cats can cause vomiting and may be diagnosed if it persists for more than three weeks. Kidney disease can lead to vomiting in one-third of cats over 15 years of age.
If a cat's appetite decreases over time and does not return after a few days, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian. However, if your cat's behavior and appetite return to normal within a day or two, monitoring at home is okay. But don't hesitate to call your veterinarian if you are concerned.
Immediate vet consultation is advised if vomiting is persistent, if the cat shows signs of pain, dehydration, neurological symptoms, or weight loss, or if the cat refuses to eat or drink. These signs may indicate severe disease or emergencies such as poisoning, intestinal blockage, or systemic illness.
Before seeing a veterinarian, ensure your cat has unlimited water and may be enticed with tuna juice or low-sodium chicken broth for hydration. Over-the-counter medications to decrease stomach acid may not always be suitable for cats, and veterinary advice is important before administering any medication.
Changes in a cat's behavior, such as reduced activity, less play, increased sleep, or hiding, may indicate illness and require medical attention if they last for more than a couple of days. If a cat stops eating for 24 hours, it is a serious medical concern that requires immediate attention.
In summary, while green cat vomit is a common occurrence, it's crucial to monitor your cat's health and seek veterinary help when necessary. Persistent vomiting, weight loss, lethargy, or other concerning symptoms should be addressed promptly to ensure your cat's wellbeing.
[1] PetMD. "Green Vomit in Cats." Accessed April 10, 2023. https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/digestive/c_multi_green_vomit [2] ASPCA. "Vomiting in Cats." Accessed April 10, 2023. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/vomiting-cats [4] VCA Hospitals. "Green Vomit in Cats." Accessed April 10, 2023. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/green-vomit-in-cats [5] Hill's Pet Nutrition. "Green Vomit in Cats." Accessed April 10, 2023. https://www.hillspet.com/catcare/healthcare/signs-of-illness-in-cats/green-vomit-in-cats
[1] In the realm of health-and-wellness, understanding the causes of green vomit in cats is crucial to maintaining their overall health.[2] Mental health is also affected, as persistent vomiting and other symptoms can signify underlying organ problems or severe illnesses, causing anxiety and concern for pet owners.
