Causes and Signs of Nausea in Pets: When It's an Emergency

When your furry buddy begins to exhibit symptoms of discomfort or disease, it is normal for you to worry. One common symptom that can be concerning is vomiting. While occasional vomiting can be normal, knowing when it might indicate a more severe underlying condition is essential. Discussing the origins, symptoms, and warning signs of nausea is beneficial.

Causes of Nausea in Pets

Pets' vomiting can stem from several different things. Among the most frequent causes are:

Dietary Indiscretion: Pets frequently consume objects they should not, such as trash, plants, or nonfood items. This can lead to vomiting, especially if the thing is difficult to digest
Infections: Pets may vomit due to diseases such as parvovirus and distemper
Inflammatory Bowel Disease: This chronic illness can lead to vomiting and causes inflammation in the digestive tract
Pancreatitis: This is pancreatic inflammation, which can result in nausea, constipation, and stomach pain
Kidney Disease: Vomiting can result from kidney illness because of the accumulation of toxins in the pet's body
Liver Disease: Vomiting and other signs and symptoms like jaundice and fatigue can indicate liver illness

Signs of Nausea in Pets

The signs of vomiting in pets can vary with the severity and cause of the vomiting. Some common signs and symptoms to look out for include the following:

Increased Salivation: Pets may drool excessively when they are about to vomit
Abdominal Contractions: Pets may show signs of abdominal contractions or retching before vomiting
Lethargy: Pets may become lethargic or weak after vomiting
Loss of Appetite: Pets may lose interest in food or become reluctant to eat after vomiting
Diarrhea: Some pets may develop diarrhea in addition to vomiting

When to Seek Emergency Care

Vomiting once in a while might not be alarming. But there are circumstances where getting your pet emergency attention is crucial. Some of these situations include:

Frequent or Persistent Vomiting

Getting a veterinarian's attention is crucial if your pet continuously or frequently throws up. This can indicate a severe underlying condition that requires prompt treatment.

Blood in Vomit

If your pet is vomiting blood or has blood in their vomit, it is crucial to seek emergency care. This can indicate a severe condition such as a gastrointestinal ulcer or ingestion of a foreign object.

Abdominal Pain

Does your pet vocalize or appear reluctant to move about due to abdominal pain? It is critical to get veterinarian care if this is the case. This can indicate a severe condition such as pancreatitis or gastrointestinal obstruction.

Dehydration

Your pet may become dehydrated if they frequently vomit or have diarrhea. Signs of dehydration include lethargy, dry gums, and sunken eyes. Getting your furry friend to a veterinarian is best if they appear dehydrated.

Inability to Keep Water Down

It is crucial to get veterinarian attention if your animal companion has trouble swallowing water. This can indicate a severe condition such as an obstruction or gastrointestinal disease.

Conclusion

Pets' vomiting can stem from several different things. Knowing when it might point to a more severe underlying illness is crucial. Increased salivation, abdominal cramps, fatigue, loss of appetite, and diarrhea are some symptoms of vomiting. Seek emergency care if your pet often throws up, displays signs of gastrointestinal pain, or appears dehydrated.

For more pet care tips, visit El Paso Animal Urgent Care West at our El Paso, Texas, office. Call (915) 301-0065 to speak to our staff today.