Dr. Millden

Dr.Tail Vet

Vomiting in cats can be caused by a variety of issues ranging from dietary indiscretion to systemic diseases. Given the additional information about your American Shorthair's skin issues, particularly excessive itching on the chest, and the fact that he is on Animax ointment, it's important to consider whether there might be a connection between the skin condition and the vomiting.

Animax ointment is a topical treatment that contains a corticosteroid, an antifungal, and an antibiotic. While it's generally safe, if your cat is ingesting it by licking the treated area, it could potentially cause stomach upset, leading to vomiting. To prevent ingestion, you might consider using an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) or a pet-safe shirt to cover the treated area.

Excessive itching can sometimes be associated with allergies or parasites. Allergies can cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal upset, which might explain both the skin and vomiting issues. Since there's no mention of flea and tick preventatives, it's also possible that your cat could have fleas, which can cause severe itching and sometimes lead to vomiting if the cat ingests fleas while grooming.

Eye and behavioral issues accompanying vomiting could indicate a more systemic problem. Eye changes could be a sign of an underlying illness, and behavioral changes often occur when a cat is not feeling well.

At home, ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration from vomiting. Monitor his food intake; if he's vomiting immediately after eating, consider feeding smaller, more frequent meals of a bland diet, such as boiled chicken or white fish with no seasoning, and plain boiled rice.

Observe your cat's vomiting episodes. If the vomiting is persistent, if there is blood in the vomit, or if your cat shows signs of lethargy, pain, or discomfort, these are red flags. Additionally, if your cat stops eating or drinking entirely, becomes increasingly lethargic, or you notice a significant change in behavior, these are urgent signs that require immediate veterinary attention.

Keep a close eye on the skin condition. If the area appears more inflamed, swollen, or if there's an increase in discharge, these could be signs of a worsening infection or an adverse reaction to the medication.

In summary, monitor your cat's overall behavior, appetite, and water intake. Keep the skin treatment area covered to prevent ingestion of the ointment, and consider potential allergens or parasites as a cause for the skin and vomiting issues. If the vomiting persists or is accompanied by any other concerning symptoms, or if the skin condition worsens, seek veterinary care promptly.

If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to come back to us! Thank you.