Cats are curious creatures, and their behavior often gives us insight into their health. But when a cat is vomiting brown liquid, it may leave pet owners unsure about what to do next. While occasional vomiting in cats may seem normal, brown liquid in particular could indicate a more serious issue. So, should you visit an urgent vet? In this blog, we will explore some possible reasons your cat is vomiting brown liquid and when it might be time to seek professional care.
What Could Be Causing Your Cat to Vomit Brown Liquid?
When a cat is vomiting brown liquid, there are various potential causes that range from minor to more serious health conditions.
Hairballs and Stomach Irritation
Cats groom themselves regularly, which results in the ingestion of loose hair. Sometimes, this hair accumulates in the stomach and can cause irritation, leading to vomiting. The brown color of the liquid may result from partially digested food or small amounts of blood from irritated stomach lining. While hairballs are usually not a medical emergency, frequent vomiting or signs of distress are worth discussing with your vet. If your cat is vomiting brown liquid multiple times in a day or seems unusually lethargic, a visit to an urgent vet might be the best course of action.
Ingesting Foreign Objects or Toxic Substances
Cats are naturally curious and may swallow items like string, plants, or household cleaners. Brown liquid vomit could indicate that the object or substance is causing a blockage or irritation in the digestive system. Foreign objects can create blockages that lead to serious complications, such as intestinal damage or poisoning. In such cases, seeing an urgent vet is necessary to avoid more severe outcomes. If your cat is vomiting brown liquid after possible exposure to toxins or small objects, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice on what steps to take next.
Gastrointestinal Disorders or Infections
Cats can develop infections from bacteria, viruses, or parasites that impact their digestive systems, leading to nausea and vomiting. Conditions like gastritis, colitis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) could cause the stomach to become inflamed, resulting in the appearance of brown liquid in the vomit. Signs of gastrointestinal disorders often include a loss of appetite, diarrhea, and lethargy in addition to vomiting. These symptoms can indicate an underlying condition that requires treatment. If you suspect your cat is suffering from a GI issue, consult an urgent vet for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
Could Your Cat’s Vomit Be a Sign of Internal Bleeding?
Brown vomit in cats may sometimes suggest internal bleeding, especially if the liquid appears dark or resembles coffee grounds. Internal bleeding can occur in the stomach or intestines, often due to ulcers, trauma, or ingestion of sharp objects. It is important to distinguish this from other causes because internal bleeding can be life-threatening.
How to Recognize Signs of Internal Bleeding
In addition to vomiting brown liquid, symptoms of internal bleeding can include:
- Pale gums
- Weakness or lethargy
- Labored breathing
- Rapid heart rate
If you notice any of these symptoms along with vomiting brown liquid, your cat may need immediate medical attention. Internal bleeding is not something that resolves on its own and requires urgent care to prevent further complications.
What Can Cause Internal Bleeding in Cats?
Causes can range from stomach ulcers, which are sometimes caused by long-term medication use or diseases, to physical injuries like being hit by a car or ingesting sharp objects. If your cat has a history of trauma or other concerning signs, it’s better to be cautious and visit an urgent vet. Contacting a professional for an evaluation can make a significant difference in your cat’s prognosis. If your cat is vomiting brown liquid and showing additional signs of distress, it’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution and get them examined as soon as possible.
Is It Time to See an Urgent Vet?
It can be difficult to know exactly when to seek urgent care for your cat, but when vomiting involves brown liquid, it often warrants attention. While some instances may resolve on their own, certain symptoms should never be ignored. You should consider visiting an urgent vet if your cat is vomiting brown liquid and showing any of the following symptoms:
- Vomiting persists for more than 24 hours
- The vomit appears to have blood (brown or dark liquid)
- Your cat is lethargic or weak
- Your cat stops eating or drinking for an extended period
- There is diarrhea or unusual stool in addition to vomiting
At OVG Urgent Care in Omaha, NE, we understand that your pet’s health is a top concern. If your cat is vomiting brown liquid, our team is here to provide expert care and guide you through every step of the process. Our skilled veterinarians offer immediate assistance with the latest diagnostic tools and treatments to get your cat back on the path to good health. Call us today at (402) 520-7492 to discuss your cat’s symptoms or to schedule an urgent visit.
