Vomiting

Golden Retriever sitting next to a bin containing vomit at the vet clinic. Learn about vomiting in pets, its causes, and when to seek veterinary care.

Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth.

What is Vomiting?

Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. It is a common symptom in both dogs and cats and can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, ranging from mild dietary indiscretion to serious medical issues. 

Signs Your Pet May be Experiencing Vomiting

Symptoms can include: 

🐾 Repeated episodes of vomiting 
🐾 Retching or gagging before vomiting 
🐾 Increased salivation  
🐾 Lethargy or weakness 
🐾 Loss of appetite 
🐾 Dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes) 
🐾 Abdominal discomfort 
🐾 Presence of blood in vomit 

If your pet shows any of these signs, a vet check-up is recommended to allow for treatment and prevent further complications.

What Causes Vomiting?

Several factors contribute to vomiting, including: 

🐾 Dietary Indiscretion – Eating spoiled food, grass, or non-food items 
🐾 Toxins – Ingesting toxic substances like chocolate, xylitol, or plants 
🐾 Infections – Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections affecting the stomach and intestines 
🐾 Organ Dysfunction – Conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, or pancreas (e.g., pancreatitis) 
🐾 Food Allergies or Sensitivities – Reaction to certain ingredients in food 
🐾 Motion Sickness – Common in pets during travel 
🐾 Medications – Some medications may cause nausea and vomiting as a side effect 

When to See a Vet

Seek veterinary care if:

🐾 Vomiting persists for more than 24 hours 
🐾 Your pet is lethargic, weak, or refusing to eat or drink 
🐾 Vomit contains blood  
🐾 There are additional symptoms such as diarrhoea or weight loss 
🐾 Your pet is very young, old, or has underlying health conditions 

At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we offer gentle, professional treatment to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications experienced with vomiting.

Professional Vomiting Treatment at My Corner Vet

At My Corner Vet, we assess vomiting through a thorough history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, including bloodwork, imaging (X-rays, ultrasound), and faecal analysis if needed. Treatment varies depending on the cause and may include: 

Surgery

If an obstruction or severe condition requires intervention.

Anti-Nausea Medication

To help control vomiting and improve comfort

Dietary Management

Prescription diets or temporary fasting to allow gut rest 

Fluids & Electrolytes

To correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

How to Prevent Vomiting

While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce the risk by: 

🐾 Feed a balanced, appropriate diet and avoid sudden dietary changes 
🐾 Prevent access to toxic foods, plants, and medications
🐾 Supervise pets to reduce the risk of swallowing foreign objects 
🐾 Ensure regular parasite control to prevent infections
🐾 Introduce motion sickness medication if needed for travel  

Frequently Asked Questions

  • If your pet has a single, mild episode and is otherwise acting normally, monitor them for further symptoms. If vomiting continues, contact your vet.

  • Yes, persistent vomiting can indicate serious conditions like gastrointestinal blockages, kidney disease, or pancreatitis. A vet check is recommended if vomiting persists. 

  • No, some human medications are toxic to pets. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication.

  • Bile vomiting can indicate an empty stomach, acid reflux, or a more serious condition. If it happens frequently, consult a vet.

  • Occasional vomiting (e.g., hairballs) may not be concerning, but frequent or severe vomiting should be evaluated by a vet to rule out underlying health issues. 

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🐾 Vomiting may be the sign of something more sinister, bring your pet in for a check.
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