Throwing up every once in a while isn’t unusual for dogs, but the underlying cause may be a reason for concern. Vomiting can be the result of something as simple as eating too quickly, or as serious as a severe health condition requiring immediate medical attention. The guide below explores some of the most common reasons dogs throw up to help you determine if you should contact a veterinarian.

5 Common Causes of Vomiting in Dogs

1. Intestinal Obstruction

Foreign objects blocking the gastrointestinal tract can cause sudden vomiting in an effort to remove the obstruction. If a favorite toy, bone, or other small object has recently gone missing and your dog is throwing up, there’s a chance they swallowed it. Tumors and organ displacement can also result in intestinal obstruction.

2. Parasites

Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms can cause severe discomfort for your pet. Along with vomiting, other signs of a parasite problem include diarrhea, weight loss, scooting, coughing, and a distended abdomen. Thorough treatment and preventative medication will be necessary to eliminate symptoms.

3. Ingesting Toxic Substances

Many foods, plants, and household substances are poisonous for dogs and can cause vomiting. If your pet ingests a toxin, take them to the animal hospital immediately. Chocolate, xylitol, grapes and raisins, sago palm, lilies, aloe vera, human medications, antifreeze, pest control, and fertilizers are just a few common household items you should keep far away from your pet.

4. Metabolic Diseases

Metabolic diseases like diabetes, pancreatitis, acute kidney or liver failure, and Addison’s disease are sometimes the cause of chronic vomiting. All of these conditions will need a diagnosis by a veterinarian for treatment. In most cases, swift intervention, medication, hydration, special diets, and close monitoring should restore diagnosed pets back to good health.

5. Certain Types of Cancer

Sporadic vomiting that occurs over a long period of time can be a symptom of some types of cancer. Keep in mind that irregular vomiting does not automatically mean your dog has cancer, and that there are many other reasons they might be throwing up. If you bring your pet to the vet for vomiting and prescribed treatment doesn’t work, a cancer screening may be the next step.

Is your pet throwing up, but you can’t figure out why? Bring them to Cat & Dog Hospital of Columbia in Howard County, MD. This full-service pet clinic offers compassionate care, state-of-the-art medical services, and expert advice for pet owners. From cutting-edge diagnostics and radiology to routine check-ups and vaccinations, they provide everything your pet needs to live a long and healthy life. Call (410) 995-6880 to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian. To learn more about their services, visit them online.