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Cat vomited after dry bath How long to withhold food and what to feed?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | unneutered

Hi! Jasper had a dry bath today at the Vet Clinic and after he came home he vomited a couple of times, his doctor told me that it's probably because he groomed himself and the dry bath product went in his mouth. I withheld food and water for two hours and gave wet food again but he vomited immediately after eating a little. He also didn't eat much, How long should I withhold food and is there anything that I can give instead of the regular dry or wet food until the vomiting stops? Thanks.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

C. Rathjens, DVM

Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 3rd, 2018

I would recommend allowing Jasper to eat right away. If he's feeling nauseous he will leave the food alone. If he is continuing to vomit and unable to eat by 24 hours after this all started, I would strongly recommend taking him back to the veterinarian for evaluation. Cats can get very ill with something called hepatic lipidosis from not eating for a prolonged time. I would also worried about toxicity from the shampoo if Jasper ate a lot of it. At the very least after 24 hours he will need some fluid underneath his skin to help rehydrate him and probably some anti-nausea medication. At home provide him lots of opportunities to drink water and eat, and limit his stress. He may want to just hang out by himself or sleep.

Reasons to seek help before 24 hours include extreme lethargy, uncontrollable vomiting, and looking pale.

Good luck, I hope Jasper feels better soon!
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    I wouldn’t withhold water completely, but give him small amounts at a time. As for the food I usually skip the next meal and then give small
    Amounts of something bland such as boiled chicken and rice. However, if he continues to vomit, or is very lethargic then I would encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian soon. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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