GI Emergency: What you should know.
This resource is here to help you understand whether the signs you are seeing could indicate a more serious condition that needs attention sooner than your scheduled visit. It is not meant to worry you, it is meant to make sure your Cat gets the right level of care at the right time.
If you are unsure about anything, please call us right away. Even if we cannot get to the phone immediately, or if it is after hours, you will be connected to a licensed Registered Veterinary Technician who can triage your Cat’s situation and guide you on next steps.
(303) 622-0068
These signs are not a go-now emergency, but they should not wait. If your appointment is scheduled for tomorrow or later, please call us right away so we can get your Cat in sooner.
Not sure which category applies? Just call.
You do not have to figure this out alone. If something feels off but you are not sure how serious it is, call us and we will help you sort it out. Our Feline Experience Specialists are available to take your call during clinic hours. If we are unable to answer, or if it is after hours, you will automatically be connected to a licensed RVT who can triage your Cat and guide you, whether that means heading to an ER right now, monitoring at home, or getting your appointment moved up. Call CatsOnly
This May Be an Emergency — Act Now
Call us or go to an ER immediately if you see any of these.
Vomiting blood, or vomit that looks like dark coffee grounds
Abdomen looks bloated or distended, feels hard, or your Cat flinches when you touch it
Retching or dry-heaving continuously with nothing coming up
You know or strongly suspect they swallowed something toxic or a foreign object
Collapsed, extremely weak, or unable to stand on their own
Pale, white, grey, or blue gums
Completely unresponsive or very difficult to wake
Heavy bloody diarrhea combined with weakness or significant lethargy
If you think they may have eaten something toxic, call ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 immediately. They are available 24/7 and can advise before you leave the house.
Your Cat Should Be Seen Today
If your appointment is not today, please call us to move it up.
Vomiting three or more times in 24 hours
Has not eaten anything in 24 to 48 hours
Diarrhea with any blood or mucus
Vomiting combined with hiding or noticeably lower energy
Kitten that has vomited more than once and is not eating
Senior Cat that has not eaten, even for just one day
Cats can develop serious liver complications from not eating faster than almost any other species. Please do not assume this will resolve on its own.
Your Appointment Timing Sounds Right
These signs can wait for your scheduled visit.
Vomited once or twice in the past few days but otherwise acting normally
Soft stool or mild diarrhea, no blood, still eating and drinking
Eating less than usual but still eating something and acting like themselves
Occasional hairball production
Gradual weight change over several weeks or months
