What to Give a Sick Dog for Throwing Up? Top Remedies and Tips for a Speedy Recovery
As dog owners, seeing our furry friend throwing up can be scary and upsetting. Some dogs vomit for minor issues like eating too quickly, while others vomit for serious reasons, which I will discuss below.
However, don’t panic because as long as you address the situation quickly, your canine will likely recover and get well soon. This article will cover possible reasons for throwing up in dogs, what to give a sick dog for throwing up, home remedies you can give your sick canine for throwing up, and more, so let’s just dive right in.
Table of Contents
Why Do Dogs Vomit: 17 Possible Causes
Like people, dogs can vomit for various reasons. Some require immediate veterinary attention, while others can be handled with home remedies.
Here’s a breakdown of possible causes of vomiting in dogs:
1. Fever
If your dog vomits, it can signify sickness. Sick dogs with a fever can vomit and experience other symptoms like lethargy, decreased appetite, and dehydration.
Infections, inflammation, or other underlying health problems can cause a fever. So, if your dog is sick, monitor their body temperature and visit your vet as soon as possible.
2. Eating Too Fast or Overeating
Dogs that eat too quickly or consume too much food in one sitting can vomit due to the excessive stretching of the stomach.
This is more common in breeds prone to gulping their food. Or in dogs competing with other pets for food. Sometimes, new food or undigested food can also cause vomiting in dogs.
So, if you’ve recently changed your dog’s normal diet and you suspect that’s the cause of their vomiting, ask your vet for food recommendations.
3. Dietary Indiscretion or Consuming a Foreign Body
Puppies can vomit after eating spoiled food, table scraps, garbage, or non-edible items like socks, toys, or rocks. A foreign body can cause irritation or inflammation in the belly and intestines, so call your vet for advice.
If you suspect your dog ingested something bad, visit the nearest vet clinic as soon as possible.
4. Motion Sickness
Just like humans, some puppies can experience vomiting during car rides or other types of motion that they’re not used to. So, if your dog vomits after a car ride, don’t worry; it’s normal.
5. Environmental or Food Allergy
Canines can have food or environmental allergies that cause them to vomit. Common food allergens include chicken, beef, dairy, and grains, while environmental allergens include pollen, dust, or mold.
6. Ingesting Toxins or Poisons
Dogs can accidentally ingest poisonous substances like chocolate, medications, pesticides, or household cleaning products. Projectile vomiting is often a sign that the dog’s body is trying to eliminate the harmful substance, so visit a vet immediately.
7. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can have chronic vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. This condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the gastrointestinal tract.
8. Gastrointestinal Obstruction or Foreign Object Ingestion
Dogs can vomit after swallowing foreign objects. They can also throw up as a result of gastrointestinal blockage.
They’re both serious conditions that require immediate veterinary care.
9. Parasites or Intestinal Worms
Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, or giardia can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss in canines.
Your vet can help you solve this health problem and prevent further complications by providing deworming meds.
10. Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. This condition can be life-threatening if not treated promptly, so call your vet asap.
11. Kidney or Liver Disease
Dogs with liver or kidney disease can vomit, lose weight, and have a decreased appetite. These conditions can cause serious health problems if left untreated, so contact your vet asap.
12. Cancer or Tumors
Some types of cancer, such as stomach or intestinal cancer, can cause vomiting in dogs. Other signs of cancer can include weight loss, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
If you suspect your dog has a serious illness, visit a vet as soon as possible.
13. Heatstroke
Canines exposed to high temperatures and humid conditions can develop heatstroke, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.
14. Medication or Treatment Side Effects
Some medications or treatments can cause vomiting as a side effect. This is usually temporary and will resolve once the medication is stopped or the treatment is completed.
15. Stress or Anxiety
Anxious or stressed dogs can vomit because of physical and emotional stress. This can happen during times of sudden change, such as moving to a new home.
16. Parvo
Parvo, a highly contagious viral infection, can cause vomiting, dehydration, and diarrhea in dogs. It typically affects puppies and unvaccinated canines. If you suspect your dog has parvo, visit a vet immediately.
17. Stomach Ulcers
Stomach ulcers can cause vomiting in dogs and other symptoms like decreased appetite, weight loss, and abdominal pain.
This condition can be caused by long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), infections, or certain diseases, so consult a vet asap.
WARNING: Repeated vomiting, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, such as diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain, can indicate a more serious underlying condition and should be evaluated by a vet immediately.
They can conduct X-rays and other tests and provide proper treatment for your pet.
Vomiting Dog: What Does the Color of My Dog’s Vomit Indicate?
The color of your dog’s vomit can reveal what’s causing their illness. Here’s a breakdown of common colors of dog vomit and what they can indicate:
Yellow
Vomit yellow or foamy indicate your dog has been hungry for too long or vomiting bile. This is common in canines who haven’t eaten for too long or have sensitive stomachs.
Green
Green vomit can indicate that your dog has eaten something that isn’t digestible, such as grass or other plant material. Intestinal obstruction can also make your puppy’s vomit green.
White
White or clear vomit can indicate the ingestion of something bad or upset stomach.
Brown
Brown vomit can indicate that your dog has ingested something they shouldn’t have, such as chocolate or other toxic substances.
Red (Blood)
Red vomit can indicate blood in your dog’s vomit, which can signify a serious health condition. If you notice blood in your puppy’s vomit, seek veterinary care immediately.
What to Give a Sick Dogfor Throwing Up: 15 Home Remedies for Dog Vomiting and Upset Stomach
When your dog’s throwing up, you can try several home remedies to help ease their discomfort and settle their upset stomach. Here’s a list of effective home remedies for dog vomiting and upset stomach:
1. Fasting
If your dog has just vomited, it’s best to withhold food for a few hours. Withholding food can help your dog’s stomach to settle.
However, keep your pet hydrated by offering water or ice cubes during the fasting period.
2. Bland Food
Once your dog’s vomiting stops, you can try feeding them bland food.
A bland diet can include boiled chicken and rice or white fish and rice. Bland food will be easy on their stomach unlike their normal diet and help them regain their strength.
3. Probiotics
Probiotics can help restore the balance of healthy bacteria in your dog’s gut, which can benefit dogs with upset tummies. You can give your dog probiotic supplements or offer them plain yogurt.
4. Ginger
Ginger is a natural remedy with anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm your dog’s stomach. You can give your dog small amounts of ginger in the form of fresh or powdered ginger or ginger biscuits.
5. Peppermint
Peppermint can also be beneficial for canines with upset tummies. You can give your dog peppermint tea or offer them a small amount of fresh or dried peppermint.
6. Chamomile
Chamomile has calming properties and can help soothe your dog’s upset stomach. You can give your dog chamomile tea or offer them a small amount of fresh or dried chamomile.
7. Slippery Elm
Slippery elm can help soothe your dog’s upset stomach and reduce inflammation. You can give your dog slippery elm supplements or mix slippery elm powder with water and offer it to them as a gruel.
8. Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin is high in fiber and can help regulate your dog’s digestion. So, add a tablespoon of canned pumpkin to your dog’s normal food to help settle their stomach.
9. Bone Broth
Bone broth is rich in nutrients and can help soothe your dog’s upset stomach. You can offer your dog a small amount of bone broth as a treat or mix it with their food.
10. CBD Oil
CBD oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce nausea and vomiting in dogs. So, talk to your veterinarian about the appropriate dosage for your dog.
11. Baby Food
Some varieties of baby food, such as plain chicken or turkey, can be a good option for canines with upset stomachs. Look for baby food without any added salt or seasonings.
12. Ice Cubes
Ice cubes can help keep your dog hydrated if they’re vomiting and not drinking enough water. Treat your dog with ice cubes or add them to their water bowl.
13. OTC Medication
Over-the-counter medications, such as Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate, can effectively treat mild cases of vomiting and diarrhea in canines. However, consult your veterinarian before giving your dog Pepto-Bismol or any medication.
14. Keep Your Dog’s Blood Levels in Check
Throwing up can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances in canines. So, monitor your dog’s blood levels and provide them with the necessary fluids and electrolytes to keep them healthy.
Additionally, ensure your dog is drinking enough water to stay hydrated. You can offer them water with some chicken or beef broth to make it more appealing.
15. Check Your Dog’s Gums
A dog’s gums can reveal a lot. So, open your dog’s mouth and check if they have pink and moist gums. Dry or pale gums can indicate dehydration or other health issues.
Note: Consult with your veterinarian before trying any home remedies, especially if your dog’s vomiting persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
When to Consider Home Remedies for a Dog That’s Vomiting?
Home remedies can be considered for a dog that’s vomiting if the vomiting is mild and not accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
If your dog is still alert, eating, and drinking normally, home remedies can help soothe their upset stomach and prevent further complications.
However, you should closely monitor your dog’s symptoms and seek veterinary care if the vomiting persists or if it shows signs of lethargy, dehydration, or other concerning symptoms.
Dog Vomiting: When to Go Straight to the Vet?
You should go straight to the vet if your dog is frequently throwing up. Or if the throwing up is accompanied by diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, dehydration, or changes in your dog’s behavior.
Additionally, vomiting occurs when a dog has ingested a toxic substance or non-edible item. If you suspect your dog has ingested something bad, seek veterinary care immediately.
Prompt veterinary attention can help diagnose and treat underlying health issues and prevent more serious complications.
FAQs
How Do I Make My Dog Feel Better After Throwing Up?
There is no guaranteed way to make your dog feel better after throwing up. Home remedies and veterinary care can help treat the underlying cause of the vomiting, but there is no instant cure for this symptom.
Seek veterinary care if there’s more vomiting or your dog shows other symptoms.
Can I Give My Dog CBD Oil for Upset Stomach?
Don’t give your dog CBD oil without consulting with a veterinarian first. While CBD oil can benefit dogs, it can interact with other medications, so it’s unsuitable for all canines.
Additionally, the underlying cause of the upset stomach should be addressed as soon as possible.
What Do I Feed My Dog After Vomiting?
It’s best to withhold food for 12-24 hours after vomiting to give your dog’s stomach time to rest. After this period, you can start with a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and rice.
However, you should monitor your dog’s appetite and digestion. Seek veterinary care if your dog vomits again or shows other concerning symptoms.
What Do I Give My Dog for Upset Stomach and Vomiting?
No single remedy for upset stomach and vomiting works for every dog. Fasting for 12-24 hours, hydration, and bland, small meals can help in some cases, but you must identify and treat the underlying cause of the symptoms.
A veterinarian can provide proper treatment and recommendations based on your dog’s needs that will stop vomiting and make your pet feel better.
Common treatments include antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and antiemetics.
What to Feed a Sick Dog With No Appetite?
If your dog has no appetite, call a veterinarian asap. They can identify and address the underlying cause of the symptoms. Your dog might need supportive care, such as fluid therapy, medication, and hospitalization.
Feeding a sick canine with no appetite can be hard and require specialized diets and feeding methods.
How to Comfort a Sick Dog?
Comforting a sick dog may involve providing a quiet and comfortable space, offering water and bland food, and spending time with your pet to offer support and companionship.
However, you must identify and treat the underlying cause of the sickness to ensure your dog’s well-being. Your vet can determine the cause of your dog’s vomiting by conducting blood tests and X-rays.
How Can I Prevent My Dog From Being Sick?
Preventing dog sickness involves providing appropriate nutrition, regular exercise, and preventive veterinary care, such as vaccinations and parasite control.
You should also keep your dog’s environment clean and free of hazards and monitor their behavior and symptoms for any changes. However, remember that regardless of your care, your dog may still get sick.
Vomiting Dog: Does Grass Make Dogs Vomit?
Grass can irritate your dog’s digestive tract and induce mild vomiting. Sometimes, dogs eat grass on purpose. However, eating grass isn’t always the underlying cause of vomiting.
Dietary imbalances or gastrointestinal issues can make canines eat grass and vomit. This goes for small dogs, medium dogs, and large dogs.
Dog Vomiting: Conclusion
Every dog is unique, so what works for one might not work for another.
If your puppy’s vomiting persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately. You can help your sick and vomiting dog feel better and recover quickly with the right care and attention.