Cat vomit control with metoclopramide

Video: Physiology of Vomiting

A certain amount of cat vomiting is to be expected, particularly in young kittens. As a cat eats something that may be harmful to its body, the body naturally reacts by expelling that object through vomiting. Metoclopramide is a useful tool in addressing chronic or excessive vomiting. When a cat vomits too frequently, he risks damaging his internal organs or suffering from underweight or malnutrition. Furthermore, excessive feline vomiting may be a sign of a serious disease or complicating health condition.

Metoclopramide Overview

Metoclopramide is an anti-emetic, or a drug designed to reduce the body`s tendency to vomit. It is formulated and approved for use in humans exclusively, but its effectiveness at addressing these issues in cats has brought it to the attention of a large number of veterinarians. Nevertheless, it is available only as a prescription medicine from a veterinarian`s office, and only as an extra-label drug when used to address feline vomiting issues.

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Metoclopramide functions by constricting the stomach muscles and increasing the pressure at the base of the esophagus. It also blocks dopamine receptors in your cat`s brain. These three factors all contribute to vomiting episodes, and without them, your cat`s body will not readily expel foods or other items that your pet has ingested.

Treating Your Pet`s Vomiting with Metoclopramide

For best results, administer the dosage of metoclopramide to your pet about 30 to 60 minutes before he eats a meal. The drug has a relatively short duration in your pet`s system. In actuality, this is a benefit, as it ensures that your pet will not retain harmful or toxic substances if he finds and eats them.

Metoclopramide comes available as a tablet, a syrup or an ingestion. The exact dosage depends upon your pet`s age, weight and condition, and it is important to consult with your veterinarian for exact administration and dosing instructions.

Veterinarians typically prescribe metoclopramide as a treatment for chronic vomiting caused by conditions like gastroenteritis, acid reflux disease, chemotherapy side effects and other related diseases. Because vomiting may be a symptom or sign of a different and unrelated disease, your veterinarian will first work to determine the source of your pet`s vomiting before prescribing metoclopramide. Without identifying and treating the underlying condition, your pet will continue to vomit after you have ceased the drug regimen, and may develop other symptoms as well.

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Adverse Effects and Other Considerations

Some cats experience mild side effects while taking metoclopramide. These include the following:

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• Lethargy
• Constipation
• Anxiety
• Hyperactivity

It is important to inform your veterinarian of any other drugs that you are administering to your pet before you begin to treat him with metoclopramide, as there are certain drugs that interact negatively with this medicine. A very small number of cats also experience allergic reactions to metoclopramide. If your pet experiences any sudden negative reactions, or if his symptoms worsen or persist over time, speak with a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Metoclopramide can significantly help to improve your pet`s quality of life. As with most medical conditions, however, addressing the symptom is typically insufficient to eliminating the causal condition. It is important to work with a vet to isolate and treat the source of your pet`s vomiting.

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