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Parent528243
Mon, May 20, 2024
Vomiting

My 8 week old kitten has been vomiting for a few days after eating fancy feast kitten wet food. And today I noticed that it’s poop was mushy and black


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Dr. Wilkins
Dr.Tail Vet

Vomiting in an 8-week-old kitten after eating can be due to several reasons, including dietary indiscretion, intolerance to the food, or a more serious underlying condition. Since the kitten has been vomiting daily for four days, this is a cause for concern. The fact that the vomit is yellow suggests that it may contain bile, which can indicate that the stomach is empty or that there is a problem with the gastrointestinal tract.

The description of the kitten's stool as mushy and black is particularly worrisome. Black, tarry stools can indicate the presence of digested blood, which is a condition known as melena. This can be caused by bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, and it's a situation that requires immediate attention.

In this situation, it's important to stop feeding the kitten Fancy Feast or any other wet food for now. Instead, offer a bland diet, such as boiled chicken or turkey without any skin or bones, and plain white rice. This can help soothe the kitten's stomach and provide easily digestible nutrients.

Ensure the kitten has access to fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration, which can occur quickly in young animals, especially if they are vomiting. You can also provide a small amount of pediatric electrolyte solution to help maintain hydration, but do not replace water with it entirely.

Keep the kitten in a quiet, comfortable area to reduce stress and monitor closely for any changes in behavior or worsening of symptoms. It's important to ensure the kitten is still active, responsive, and not showing signs of pain or distress.

If the vomiting persists despite the bland diet, or if you notice any of the following additional symptoms, it's crucial to seek immediate veterinary care:

- Continued black or bloody stools
- Lethargy or unresponsiveness
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Pale or white gums
- Sudden collapse or weakness

These signs could indicate a serious condition that requires prompt medical intervention. It's also important to have the kitten evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible to determine the cause of the vomiting and black stools and to receive appropriate treatment.

Remember, young kittens are particularly vulnerable and can deteriorate quickly, so prompt action is essential to ensure the best outcome for your pet. If you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to come back to us! Thank you.