Investigating why a pet might be vomiting is always important. When you talk to your veterinarian, they will ask you several questions about your pet’s vomiting. Being prepared with pictures or descriptive notes on the following can help your veterinarian determine the most likely cause:
What the vomited material looks like
The color of the vomit
How often your pet is vomiting
How long your pet has been vomiting
An approximate quantity of material your pet is vomiting
Use the charts below as a guide for explaining the characteristics of your pet’s vomiting symptoms to your veterinarian. Different types of vomit also indicate varying levels of severity so use these charts to help determine whether your pet’s vomiting requires emergency care, urgent care, or a sick visit with your primary care veterinarian.

It is important to discuss any vomiting with your veterinarian, even if the symptom is mild or sporadic. Please immediately call your veterinarian or visit your local pet emergency hospital if there is any worsening of the vomiting or development of new symptoms.