Vomiting is a common issue that many cat owners encounter, especially with American Shorthair kittens. While it can be alarming, understanding the underlying causes and taking appropriate actions can help your cat recover quickly.
Vomiting in American Shorthair Cats: Causes and Solutions
Causes of Vomiting
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Cold – induced Vomiting During seasons like winter and spring when the weather is unpredictable, cats are prone to catching colds due to sudden temperature changes. If your cat shows signs of a cold, such as sneezing or a runny nose, ensure they stay warm. You can use a pet – safe thermal pad or blanket. If needed, consult a vet for appropriate cold medication. After treating the cold, you can give your cat probiotics to support digestion. If symptoms persist for more than two or three days or if your cat has a fever, visit a vet for a thorough check – up and possible antibiotic treatment.
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Vomiting from Indigestion For kittens under three months old, feeding dry cat food without soaking it can make it hard for them to digest, leading to vomiting. It’s better to provide easily digestible foods like kitten – specific milk replacer, plain rice porridge, nutritional rice powder, or wet cat food. For older cats, overeating can also cause vomiting. In such cases, withhold food for 24 hours. After that, gradually reintroduce small amounts of bland food, ideally mixed with probiotics to aid digestion.
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Food – allergy – induced Vomiting Cats are sensitive to certain human foods like chili, onions, chocolate, and candies. Ingesting these can cause an allergic reaction and vomiting. Some cats may also be allergic to spoiled cat food or grain – inclusive formulas. Store harmful foods out of your cat’s reach and maintain a regular feeding schedule. If you find any spoiled cat food, replace it immediately with fresh ones.
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Hairball – induced Vomiting Cats groom themselves regularly, and the swallowed hair can accumulate into hairballs in their stomach. This can lead to vomiting. To prevent this, feed your cat hairball paste and cat grass regularly. Also, frequent brushing can reduce the amount of hair your cat swallows.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
If the above methods don’t improve your cat’s condition, collect samples of your cat’s vomit and feces and visit a veterinarian for further examination and testing.
In addition to the above, other factors such as stress, parasites, or toxins can also lead to vomiting in cats. If your cat’s vomiting is frequent, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like bloody vomit, diarrhea, lethargy, or weight loss, it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary attention. Always ensure your cat has access to fresh water to prevent dehydration. With proper care and attention, most cats recover well from vomiting episodes.
