Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My diabetic dog threw up after not eating. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male

Carter is diabetic and was not eating his food this morning. We left him alone and waited to see if he would eat, and he did. I come home and find puke all over the top of our washer. What should i do?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on October 16th, 2017

It sounds like Carter has developed a bit of tummy trouble, likely gastroenteritis. It will be making him feel nauseous and not want to eat. If he seems weak or incoordinated or the vomiting continues. take him to the vet now. However if he is otherwise bright I would starve him for 12 hours then try feeding him plain chicken and rice tomorrow. Don't give insulin whilst you aren't feeding him. Tomorrow if he keeps food down give him half his dose, then back to normal. If he is no better tomorrow take him to the vet.

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 16th, 2017

    Diabetics are more prone to infection than normal cats. I would have your vet take a look at him and check his blood work. Your vet will be able to prescribe him some antibiotics if needed and help rehydrate him if he is dehydrated. Your vet may also want to check his urine to ensure he hasn't developed ketones in his urine or a urinary tract infection. Ketones in the urone would indicated a more advanced stage of uncontrolled diabetes and treatment may be a little different. Since diabetics can be delicate I do not recommend waiting a few days to see if he gets better as they can go down hill rather quickly. If he isn't eating tonight you can try to entice him with some plain boiled chicken (no bones). If he still doesn't eat, do not give him insulin if he is on any and call your vet asap. I hope this helps And he starts to feel better really soon!!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 9th, 2019

    Hello. Diabetes is a dynamic disease, meaning things can change over time, even with seemingly good control. Infections can pop up out of the blue, other problems can develop as well. If Nibbles can keep some food down, & can eat a little when his insulin is due, then just make an appointment with your vet on Monday. If he seems weak, disoriented, refuses to eat or just cannot keep anything down, you probably should have him seen on emergency. You can try some chicken or turkey based pureed jarred baby food, as long as there are no onions or garlic in it, but do try to keep him eating so he can take his insulin on time. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

    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
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
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
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored