How can I treat my cat’s vomiting and diarrhoea at home?

As long as your cat is alert, is able to and wants to eat and drink, you can probably treat its vomiting and diarrhoea at home for a couple of days.

If your cat, however, does not want to eat or drink, or can not keep water down (vomits it up), or if there is any blood in its vomit or diarrhoea you should seek veterinary care straight away.

It is recommended to offer small portions of an easily digestible diet/food several times daily. You can either give your cat a diet specially made for sensitive stomachs (sold at a veterinary clinic) or you can try offering small pieces of cooked chicken fillet or white fish. The portions should be about a small tablespoon in size and should be given 6-8 times daily the first day. Gradually increase the amount of food and decrease the amount of portions given over the next couple of days if your cat tolerates it well. Usually after 5-7 days you can start weaning your cat back onto its normal diet.

In addition to a special diet, it is recommended to give your cat probiotics. Probiotics are natural gut bacteria that help stabilize your cat’s digestive tract. These can be bought in a paste or powder form that you can spread onto your cat’s food. Keep your cat indoors during the time it is unwell. This way you can keep track of the nature and progression of its vomiting and diarrhoea. If your cat does not improve within a couple of days, or if your cat starts vomiting more often or its diarrhoea worsens, you should seek care from a veterinarian.