Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat ate a greasy paper towel. Why is he vomiting and diarrhea?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 5 years and 9 months old | 12 lbs

My cat ate a greasy paper towel the other night, ever since then hes had diarrhea, and vomiting. I need help to fix him.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on June 3rd, 2017

I'm sorry to hear B.B. is not feeling well. Grease on the paper towel can definitely upset the gastrointestinal tract causing vomiting and diarrhea. Pancreatitis is another possible consequence as well as the potential for a intestinal blockage from the paper it's self. If it has not resolved within 48 hours, I recommend to take him into the vet's office. Bloodwork and radiographs will determine if pancreatitis or a blockage is present. If he is dehydrated they will give him some fluid therapy. A bland diet of chicken and white rice or one of the prescription plan diets can also help to decrease the G.I. upset. Hope he gets to feeling better soon.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Oh no, poor BB! Because he ate a greasy paper towel, it could be that it is upsetting his stomach or it could potentially be causing an obstruction leading to the diarrhea and vomiting. When a cat has both vomiting and diarrhea, especially after eating a foreign body, the best thing to do it take him into the vet now. The vet can do a physical exam, blood tests, urinalysis, and x-rays to diagnose what is causing his vomiting and diarrhea. Once a cause is found, the vet can discuss treatment options. Should he have an obstruction, he will need surgery to remove it. I would take BB into a vet right away. Good luck, I hope this helps!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored