Why is my senior cat vomiting and having diarrhea again? What tests?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
My 14 year old cat was throwing up & had diarrhea in and outside litter box in August, vet treated her for a virus and after 5 days she got better, however for the past day she again is throwing up and has diarrhea. Since it has been 4 months in between should I suspect it is more than a virus? What kind of tests might a vet suggest?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on December 5th, 2017
Causes of diarrhea and vomiting at this age include pancreatitis, IBD, Lymphoma and other types of cancer. it is not easy to diagnose those conditions, she will need some specific blood tests and a specialist ultrasound to start with.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on August 10th, 2017
I am very sorry to hear that Kismet is experiencing these troubling clinical signs. Unfortunately in elderly cats vomiting, weight loss and inappetance could be the first signs of potentially serious medical Conditions, which require bloodwork and a physical exam by your vet to diagnose. Because these symptoms have been noticed over a period of time, I would suggest scheduling a visit in the next few days. If Kismet becomes depressed, has difficulty breathing, or collapses I would take her in immediately. The vet will test for common metabolic diseases of elderly cats such as hyperthyroidism and diabetes, and may want to perf advanced imaging of the chest and abdomen using an X-ray or ultrasound to check for masses, intestinal blockages, and foreign bodies. I hope that this was a helpful answer, but more Importantly I hope Kismet starts to feel better soon. Warmest regards to you both.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on July 3rd, 2017
Intestinal lymphoma is a possibility in any older cat with GI problems. However they are also prone to an inflammatory bowl disease that has similar symptoms. A biopsy if the intestines can distinguish between the two disease as they have very different treatments and prognosis. A diet change can help along with a B12 vitamin supplement either way. With brown vomit it is best that she get rechecked as that can be a sign of old blood and you want to be sure she doesn't have a stomach ulcer.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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