Is This Normal Vomiting?

We like to think that our fur babies are just like us and treatments can be similar. But we know this is untrue and actually a very dangerous sentiment. So when it comes to an act of puking, let’s consider why they may be doing so.

Diet

Vomiting may be a simple reaction from eating too quickly or too much. But if this habit is not broken and becomes a repetitive issue, major health problems will occur (such as dehydration or pancreatitis). There may also be an underlying issue that happens behind your back! Your dog may be foraging for food in sneaky places that result in garbage gut. This means going into the trash or picking up junk on the ground while taking a walk. Food sensitivity and allergies can also contribute to vomiting. Careful observation and vigilance is necessary when it comes to your dog’s diet.

Intestinal Parasites

Parasites can be an intruder found in those garbage foods we were talking about above! But they are also found everywhere such as dog parks, the beach, canine boarding and day cares. Parasite medication may also induce vomiting depending on how infected your dog is and how strong the subsequent medication is on their systems.

Gastrointestinal Illnesses

Doggies suffer from gastritis too. Poor things. Long term digestive problems can inflame the stomach or intestines causing the digestive tract to be unable to digest food through to the other end. If your dog suffers from megaesophagus, then they are unable to push food down their esophagus and vomiting is the only way out.

Viral or Bacterial Infections

Parvovirus cannot be prevented by vaccination and is highly contagious to puppies. That’s why vets recommend that puppies under 16 weeks of age that are not fully vaccinated should not play outside or with other dogs. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that spreads from wildlife urine into dogs that play or drink the affected water. Fortunately, Lepto can be treated and prevented.

Chronic Diseases

Vomiting can be a symptom of many serious diseases. Please check with your vet to see if your pup suffers from kidney, liver, or heart diseases. Diabetes and some forms of cancer also can induce vomiting.

Anxiety & Stress

Think of the gut as the second brain in dogs (and humans!). Many stress factors will signal from your brain to your stomach, and vice versa, causing issues like obesity, eating disorders, and depression. Naturally, if your dog is an anxious fella or lives in a stressful environment, the gut is the first thing to react. Some stress triggers are separation anxiety, car rides, loud noises from lighting or fireworks and even bringing a new pet or baby to your home.

If your pup is showing signs of illness or recurring vomiting, consult your vet immediately. But if they puke once on your rug, well then, I guess you’ll have to clean it and then be on watch for the few couple days!