Regurgitation in Cats

Cats

Overview of Regurgitation in Cats

Regurgitation is the backward flow or effortless evacuation of fluid, mucus, or undigested food from the esophagus. Unlike vomiting, it is not accompanied by nausea and does not involve forceful abdominal contractions. It is a symptom of esophageal disease and not a disorder in itself. The typical appearance of regurgitation in a cat is an undigested tube of food. 

Below is an overview on Regurgitation in Cats followed by in-depth information the causes, diagnosis and treatment of this condition. It is important for your veterinarian to establish regurgitation from vomiting as they can look similar but the causes and subsequent treatment is very different. 

The timing of regurgitation: 

in relation to eating is determined by the location of esophageal dysfunction, degree of obstruction, and presence or absence of esophageal dilatation.

Regurgitation immediately after eating is most likely to occur with proximal esophageal lesions or esophageal obstruction.

Regurgitation may be unassociated with eating when the esophagus is dilated, because this provies a reservoir for food and fluid.

Selective retention of fluids over solid food is more likely with partial obstruction.

Causes of regurgitation in cats fall into two categories:

Esophageal structural disorders – which include foreign bodies, stricture and vascular ring anomaly

Esophageal motility disorders – which include megaesophagus

What to Watch For

Weight loss

Coughing

Difficulty breathing

Lethargy

Frequent regurgitation of undigested food

Veterinary Care

Care should start with a discussion with your veterinarian who will obtain a medical history about your cat. The initial differentiation between vomiting and regurgitation is important because, not only are different organs involved, but also different diagnostic techniques and therapeutics are warranted. Diagnostic tests and treatment should follow.

Diagnosis of Regurgitation in Cats

Diagnostic tests are usually needed to determine the cause of regurgitation. A thorough medical history is of paramount importance, confirming that your cat is regurgitating and not vomiting. A thorough physical examination is always necessary as well. Diagnostic tests may include:

Complete blood count (CBC)

Biochemical profile

Urinalysis

Endocrine testing (ACTH stimulation, thyroid profile)

Thoracic (chest) radiographs (X-rays)

Acetylcholine receptor antibody test, antinuclear antibody testing

Electromyography and muscle biopsy

Esophagram (barium swallow)

Fluoroscopy

Esophagoscopy

Blood lead and/or organophosphate levels

Treatment of Regurgitation in Cats

Treatment of the regurgitating cat can either be supportive or specific, where the latter can be instituted when a known underlying cause is identified. Supportive therapy may consist of the following:

Dietary modification

Gastrointestinal motility (movement) enhancing drugs

Acid blocking agents and esophageal/gastric coating agents in cases of suspect or associated esophagitis

Hospitalizing and restoring fluid and electrolyte balance and nutritional support in the severely ill patient

Antibiotic therapy in cases of pneumonia

Home Care

Home care recommendations depend on the underlying cause of the problem. The following general recommendations should be considered:

Administer all prescribed medications and practice the directed feeding instructions.

Watch very closely for signs that might suggest secondary pneumonia, which include labored breathing, coughing and/or general lethargy and a poor appetite.

Pay close attention to the body condition of your pet. Maintaining an appropriate nutritional plan can sometimes be difficult in these cats.