Vomiting

Vomiting is the active, forceful ejection of stomach and sometimes upper intestinal contents. It is usually preceded by signs of nausea, such as lip licking, excessive drooling, restlessness, or repeated retching (abdominal contractions without producing anything). Vomiting is a protective reflex that helps rid the body of harmful substances, but it can also be a symptom of numerous underlying conditions, both gastrointestinal and systemic. Common causes include dietary indiscretion, infections, parasites, motion sickness, pancreatitis, kidney disease, liver disease, and certain medications or toxins. While occasional vomiting might be benign, persistent or severe vomiting, especially if accompanied by lethargy, dehydration, blood, or fever, requires immediate veterinary evaluation to prevent complications and diagnose the cause. Do not confuse vomiting with regurgitation.