Kitten Vomiting White Foam

A kitten vomiting white foam may indicate a serious problem. If the vomit is accompanied with diarrhea, it can indicate a potentially life-threatening condition. Common causes of vomiting in kittens include overeating, bacterial infections, change in diet, IBD, adrenal gland disease, and Enteritis. While most cases of kitten vomiting are not of a serious nature, it is best to establish the cause of the vomiting, in case it is due to a more serious disease. 

Overeating in Kittens

Just like humans, kittens may overeat and feel sick afterwards. Kittens are not used to their diets yet, and may not know exactly when to stop. It is relatively common for young kittens to overeat, and vomiting is a symptom of this. 

Dietary Changes 

Changing your kitten's diet suddenly may cause stomach upset and vomiting, and it is also relatively common among young cats. If you decide to make a change in your kitten's diet or meal-plan, it is best to introduce new foods slowly. Feeding a new diet too quickly is a common reason kittens vomit. 

Bacterial Infections in Kittens

Infections that invade the gastrointestinal areas and stomach can cause stomach upset very quickly. Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites are known to trigger symptoms in kittens such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, and lethargy. 

IBD in Kittens

Inflammatory bowel disease, also known as IBD, can cause several gastrointestinal and stomach upset problems in your kitten. When the gastrointestinal tract is invaded by unwanted cells and begins to show signs of inflammation, your kitten may start to vomit a foamy substance. Diarrhea, weight loss, lack of energy, and loss of appetite are also common symptoms of IBD. Treatment options for IBD usually include medications and changes in dietary habits. 

Adrenal Gland Disease in Kittens

Adrenal gland disease occurs when the adrenal glands fail to produce enough cortisone. This commonly occurs in cats, and can cause vomiting of a foamy white substance. Although this disease occurs more in mature cats, it can affect young kittens as well. It is more likely to affect female kittens than male. Other symptoms that are associated with adrenal gland disease in cats include muscle weakness, diarrhea, low blood sugar, lethargy, and depression. 

Enteritis in Kittens

Enteritis is a condition that occurs when the small intestine becomes inflamed. Symptoms of Enteritis may include vomiting, weight loss, diarrhea, and lack of energy. Blood, bile, and food may also be inside of the the vomit, but most often, the vomit has a white foam consistency. Usually, the vomiting is accompanied by watery diarrhea. Enteritis will cause your kitten to look thin and ill. 

When to Call a Veterinarian

Although most cases of vomiting in kittens are not due to a serious or life-threatening condition, it is better to be safe than sorry. If you notice your cat unexpectedly vomiting with no known reason or cause, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible to rule out any possibly dangerous conditions or diseases.  

 

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