Learning Cat

Cat Throwing Up? How to Calm Your Inner Helicopter Parent (and Help Your Furry Friend)

by · July 29, 2024

Your baby’s throwing up. Every cat parent’s worst nightmare, right? You see that puddle on the floor, and suddenly your mind is racing. Is it something they ate? Are they sick? Is this the beginning of the end? Cue dramatic music

Okay, take a deep breath. Just like us humans, cats throw up sometimes. It doesn’t always mean a trip to the vet is in order. But, and this is important, it’s always best to be observant.

Let’s channel our inner Cesar Millan – calm, assertive, and in control – and figure this out together.

First Things First: Is It Actually a Big Deal?

You gotta read your cat’s body language. Trust me, they’re talking to you, even if it’s not with words.

  • Acting normal? Eating, drinking, using the litter box like a champ? Still playful and affectionate? Probably not an emergency.
  • Looking lethargic? Hiding more than usual? Loss of appetite? That’s your cue to call the vet.

You mentioned your little one is still her usual self, which is a good sign. But this throwing up business, even if it’s just once every couple of days, isn’t her norm. So, let’s investigate further.

Possible Culprits (and What to Do About Them):

Think of this as detective work, with your cat as the case file.

  • Hairballs: Ah, the joys of being a cat parent. Cats groom themselves, right? And all that licking leads to ingesting hair, which can lead to…you guessed it…hairballs. These usually look like, well, hairballs – long, thin, and probably a bit gross.
    • Solution? Regular brushing! Get yourself a good cat brush and make it a bonding experience. There are also hairball remedies available, both in treat form and as pastes.
    • Cost: Cat brushes can range from £5 to £20, depending on the type. Hairball remedies are typically around £5-£10.
  • Eating Too Fast: Some cats, bless their little cotton socks, are just gobbling machines. They eat like it’s their last meal, and then their tummies are like, “Whoa, slow down there, champ!”
    • Solution? Puzzle feeders! These make your cat work for their food, slowing them down and providing mental stimulation. Win-win.
    • Cost: Puzzle feeders range from £5 for basic ones to £20+ for more elaborate designs.
  • Food Sensitivities: Just like us, cats can have sensitivities to certain foods. It might be a particular protein source, grain, or even an additive.
    • Solution? Talk to your vet about trying a limited ingredient diet or a hypoallergenic formula.
    • Cost: Hypoallergenic or limited ingredient diets are typically more expensive than standard cat food. Expect to pay around £20-40 for a bag.
  • Stress: You mentioned a new apartment and a bug problem. Both of those things can be stressful for a cat.
    • Solution? Create a calm and predictable environment. Feliway diffusers can work wonders for reducing stress. Make sure your cat has plenty of safe spaces, like a cat tree or a cosy bed.
    • Cost: Feliway diffusers are around £20-30, and refills are about £15-20.
  • Bugs: You’re right to be concerned about this. Some insecticides can be toxic to cats.
    • Solution? First and foremost, make sure any pest control products you’re using are pet-safe. If you’re unsure, check with the manufacturer or your vet. Keep your cat confined to a safe area while you’re treating for bugs, and clean up any spills or residues thoroughly.
    • Cost: Pet-safe pest control products vary in price depending on the type and brand.

When to Call in the Big Guns (aka The Vet)

Remember how I said to channel your inner Cesar Millan? Calm and assertive? There’s a time to stay calm, and there’s a time to take action. If your cat is showing any of these signs, it’s time for a vet visit:

  • Blood in vomit or stool
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Weight loss
  • Increased thirst or urination

Don’t hesitate to err on the side of caution. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

In the Meantime…

I know it’s tough to see your furry friend under the weather. Here are a few things you can do to help:

  • Fresh water: Make sure your cat has access to clean, fresh water at all times.
  • Bland diet: If your cat is throwing up frequently, try offering them a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice. This is easy on the stomach.
  • Rest: Just like us, cats need their rest to recover. Make sure they have a comfortable and quiet place to relax.
  • Love and cuddles: Okay, this one might be a bit biased, but I’m a firm believer in the power of love and cuddles. Sometimes, all your cat needs is a little extra TLC.

Remember, you’re not alone in this. We’ve all been there, staring at a puddle of vomit and wondering what the heck is going on. The important thing is to stay calm, observe your cat, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed.

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