Help, my boy's barfing too much

[engsohere]

Thanks for the suggestion Medusa. I don't have a vet so what should I look for in an establishment? What types of test will they do and when will I know the results?

I hope it's not serious but it just worries me since he's never barfed twice in one day before. Yes, he vomits soild food, not liquids, and he usually does it within 5 minutes after the meal. I also notice he's drinking more water now than during colder weather. I did some research on the net and some people say it's okay for a cat to barf once or twice a week, is this true?

[Grace]

He's adorable - what's his name? He certainly doesn't look like he is losing weight.

You do need to find Vet, though. Do you have friends with pets? If so, ask them about their Vets. Are there any Emergency Pet Clinics in your area? Another good place to get information.

[Catty1]

engsohere - if you have friends who have pets, ask them who their vet is, and if they like the vet. Word of mouth is a good way to go.

Or ask your local Humane Society who they use, and how to go about finding a good vet.

Here are some tips from one site...

How to Find a Veterinarian
From your Veterinary Medicine Guide

Whether you are new to an area, just got a pet, or looking for a second opinion, here are some tips on finding a veterinarian.

Difficulty Level: Easy Time Required: varies

Here's How:

1. When searching for a new vet (relocation, new pet) ask friends, family, and co-workers who they see and why they like that vet.
2. When seeking a second opinion or referral, first ask your current vet if possible.
3. If you feel uncomfortable about asking your present vet for a referral, start with step one above.
4. Call the state veterinary medical association (VMA) for specialist referrals in your location.
5. The AVMA (http://www.avma.org) also has state veterinary medical association contact information online.
6. There are several sites online that will do a localized veterinarian or veterinary hospital search for you (see 'Related Links' below).
7. The Yellow Pages are also an option for initial research when finding a veterinarian.
8. Once you have the names of some veterinarians in your area who see the species of pets or animals that you have, the next step is to call or stop by the office.
9. Is the reception staff friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable?
10. Will the office hours work with your schedule and lifestyle?
11. What about emergency coverage after hours and on holidays?
12. Is the veterinary staff (doctors, technicians, assistants) professional and knowledgeable?
13. Do the staff members have a good 'bedside manner' when relating to you and your pet?
14. If the vet and/or hospital that you have selected do not meet these criteria, you may want to keep looking until you can be assured that your pet is receiving the best possible care.

This Google search link has a few options to click on: http://www.google.ca/search?hl=en&q=...e+Search&meta=

If he was a stray - bless you for taking him in. He should have had a medical checkup right away, but now would be a good time.

As for tests, I don't know anyone here who could answer that. The vet will examine your cat. It could be as simple as kitty's having worms (inside or outside kitty?), or a symptom of something else. Even a change in food can help, and might solve the problem.

Please ask your friends, and get your furbuddy to a vet soon.

[engsohere]

Thanks for the replies...

He just ate and everything seems to be fine. I also got a piece of rock and put it in the middle of the bowl. Medusa, thanks for the suggestion, also thanks for the Cat Dancer idea...I read one of your posts a few months back and got it for him(see pic). To be quite honest I don't trust 'Doctors' very much, so I try to avoid them unless absolutely necessary. A part of me also worry that if they do find something seriously fatal, what will I do? That's why I'm asking if it's normal for a cat to barf once in a while, and what interval would be acceptable? Regardless, thanks to all and I will keep you guys informed.

[Medusa]

I can understand your distrust w/doctors; a lot of people feel that way. However, we as humans can talk and voice our concerns and let others know when we're sick and what's hurting, etc. Animals have no voice so a good vet is an absolute necessity. Others have posted lots of good info about finding a good vet but if you have friends who have pets, ask them for a referral. You've had your cat for about a year you say, so it's past time to get him checked out completely. Probably whatever is wrong can be corrected easily but the longer you put off taking him in, the worse it can get if it does turn out to be something that he would need medication for. Don't be scared. Be brave for your cat. That way you'll have him for years to come and you owe it to him to give him a healthy life. It'll be fine. Take him to a vet w/out delay. Then hopefully you can post and tell us what the vet said and say "Whew! I was worried for nothing."

[columbine]

I agree with everyone who's suggesting a vet visit. Cats are notorious stoics, and couldn't describe how they feel even if they wanted to. It could be caused by any one of a million things, some serious, some trivial, and only a vet knows how to figure it out.

He sure is a cutie!

Love, Columbine