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DogCatDigestive

Vomiting and diarrhea

One mild vomit or soft stool is not always an emergency, but repeated vomiting, frequent watery diarrhea, blood, marked pain, weakness or inability to keep water down needs prompt assessment. Puppies, kittens, older pets and those with chronic disease dehydrate faster.

Veterinary assessment needed

Go to a clinic immediately if

  • There is blood, black stool, severe pain, abdominal swelling, collapse, possible toxin or foreign body, or the patient is a puppy or kitten
  • Vomiting immediately after drinking, repeated unproductive attempts or a tense painful abdomen need rapid assessment
Contact a veterinary clinic

Possible signs

  • Repeated vomiting, frequent watery diarrhea, poor appetite, abdominal pain, weakness or signs of dehydration
  • Dry or tacky gums, sunken eyes, reduced urination and unusual weakness may indicate dehydration

What it is

Vomiting and diarrhea are signs, not a single disease. Causes range from abrupt diet change, parasites and infection to poisoning, a foreign body, or pancreatic, liver, kidney or hormonal disease. Urgency depends on frequency and duration, blood or pain, the ability to retain water, and the pet’s age and concurrent conditions.

What to expect at the veterinarian

The veterinarian will assess hydration, abdominal pain, temperature and circulation and ask about food, medicines, possible foreign objects and toxin exposure. Fecal, blood and urine tests, radiographs or ultrasound may be needed. Treatment is cause-specific and may include fluids, nausea and pain control, nutritional support or removal of an obstruction.

Sources

Updated: 26 Oct 2026

Important information

This guide does not diagnose and does not replace veterinary advice.

Do not give human medicines, leftover antibiotics or other treatment unless a veterinarian directs you. If you are unsure how urgent a sign is, contact a veterinary clinic.