Regurgitation in Cats

Overview of Regurgitation in Cats

Regurgitation is the backward flow or effortless evacuation of fluid, mucus, or undigested food from the esophagus. Unlike vomiting, it is not accompanied by nausea and does not involve forceful abdominal contractions. It is a symptom of esophageal disease and not a disorder in itself. The typical appearance of regurgitation in a cat is an undigested tube of food.

Below is an overview on Regurgitation in Cats followed by in-depth information the causes, diagnosis and treatment of this condition. It is important for your veterinarian to establish regurgitation from vomiting as they can look similar but the causes and subsequent treatment is very different.

The timing of regurgitation:

in relation to eating is determined by the location of esophageal dysfunction, degree of obstruction, and presence or absence of esophageal dilatation.

Causes of regurgitation in cats fall into two categories:

What to Watch For

Veterinary Care

Care should start with a discussion with your veterinarian who will obtain a medical history about your cat. The initial differentiation between vomiting and regurgitation is important because, not only are different organs involved, but also different diagnostic techniques and therapeutics are warranted. Diagnostic tests and treatment should follow.

Diagnosis of Regurgitation in Cats

Diagnostic tests are usually needed to determine the cause of regurgitation. A thorough medical history is of paramount importance, confirming that your cat is regurgitating and not vomiting. A thorough physical examination is always necessary as well. Diagnostic tests may include:

Treatment of Regurgitation in Cats

Treatment of the regurgitating cat can either be supportive or specific, where the latter can be instituted when a known underlying cause is identified. Supportive therapy may consist of the following:

Home Care

Home care recommendations depend on the underlying cause of the problem. The following general recommendations should be considered:

In-depth Information on Regurgitation in Cats

There are many causes of regurgitation. It is important to understand that although there are multiple diseases of the esophagus that cause regurgitation, there are other disorders that are considered systemic (involving the whole body), that have an effect on the esophagus, and regurgitation is only one of the symptoms being exhibited. The following are the most commonly reported disorders associated with regurgitation in cats.

Diagnosis In-depth

Therapy In-depth

The following nonspecific (symptomatic) treatments may be applicable to some, but not all pets with regurgitation. These treatments may reduce severity of symptoms or provide relief for your pet. However, nonspecific therapy is not a substitute for definitive treatment of the underlying disease responsible for your pet’s condition.