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My cat vomited bile and won't eat, but she is drinking water. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 12 years and 11 months old | 10 lbs

Hi i have a cat who isnt eating and vomited bial this morning, but she is drinking water

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 4th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m sorry to hear Cuppy isn’t feeling well. If she isn’t eating, I recommend taking her to a vet to find out why. Cats cannot go more than a few days without eating. They will start by doing a physical exam and will likely recommend lab work to see how her organs are functioning and the status of her red and white blood cells. They may also run a thyroid test to determine if it’s over-active. The vet may need to take radiographs of her abdomen to rule out a foreign object or other abnormalities. Once a diagnosis is made, they should be able to give her some medications to help her feel better. Good luck and kisses to Cuppy!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on April 25th, 2018
Cody needs to see a vet immediately. When cats don't eat for at least three days, they will develop a fatty liver which is fatal without treatment. She hasn't eaten for three days, and is now in danger of developing a fatty liver. It's also concerning she has vomited and gotten thin. She has to have veterinary care now, there is nothing you can do for her at home. Please take her into a vet immediately.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 24th, 2016
Since it has been a couple days, I think it would be best if she was examined by your vet. She could have an infection, parasite, gastritis/enteritis, metabolic/endocrine disease, or an obstruction. Your vet can run labwork and take xrays, if needed, to help diagnose and then prescribe medications to treat. Your vet can prescribe an anti-vomiting, gastric protectant, and give fluids to prevent dehydration. Hope she feels better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on September 30th, 2017
Hello, sorry to hear about Pinky. She may be sick from an infectious organism such as a parasite or a virus. The other potential cause may be associated with ingestion of a foreign material such as string. If the vomiting and diarrhea continue, Pinky should be evaluated by your veterinarian soon. In the interim, ensure she has access to plenty of water and feed her very small frequent meals only. Best of luck and hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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