Vomiting

Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth, a protective reflex triggered by irritation, toxins, illness, or signals from the brain.

In dogs and cats, vomiting is distinguished from regurgitation, which is passive and involves undigested food from the esophagus. Owners typically see heaving, drooling, and abdominal effort before the material appears. A single episode after dietary indiscretion is common, while repeated vomiting, vomiting with blood, lethargy, or an inability to keep water down is treated as urgent. Veterinarians assess it by history, examination, and often blood work or imaging to identify causes ranging from foreign objects to organ disease.

Vomiting is among the signs reported when pets accidentally ingest cannabis, particularly THC-containing foods, and gastrointestinal upset has been noted in some canine and feline cannabinoid studies. Inactive ingredients and flavorings can irritate the stomach independently of any cannabinoid. Because vomiting can also signal poisoning from many household substances, an owner who suspects exposure should contact a veterinarian or an animal poison control line promptly and bring any packaging along.