Cat's Acid Reflux: A Veterinary Perspective by Dr. Catherine Barnette, Published on April 13, 2025 | Share on Facebook | Tweet | Email | Print
The Lowdown on Feline Acid Reflux:
Don't let your furry friend suffer in silence – acid reflux can also affect our beloved cats! While it might seem uncommon, have no fear; your cat can indeed experience this uncomfortable issue.
So, what exactly is acid reflux in cats? Well, it's thought to be a fairly prevalent condition in the feline world, but chances are, many cases go undiagnosed. The signs aren't always clear, making it tricky to pinpoint.
When the stomach acid flows up into the esophagus in cats, it can cause damage to the esophageal lining, resulting in a condition called esophagitis. If stomach or intestinal contents are brought up during an episode of acid reflux and make their way into the lungs, it's known as aspiration pneumonia.
Smooshed-faced breeds like Persians, Himalayans, and Burmese are at a higher risk due to their anatomy.
Now you might be wondering, "what causes acid reflux in cats"? Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), typically occurs when the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach relaxes, allowing stomach or intestinal contents to flow back up.
Common culprits include:
- Chronic (long-term) vomiting
- Hiatal hernia (a hereditary or traumatic opening in the diaphragm)
- Inappropriate diet (stray table scraps or a high-fat diet)
- Stress
- Gastric foreign bodies
- Intestinal obstruction
- Viral or bacterial infections
- Anesthesia (which relaxes the esophageal sphincter, causing temporary acid reflux)
While there are numerous causes, not all cases have an identifiable cause, and your vet may not be able to find a cause for your cat's acid reflux.
Symptoms to watch out for include:
- Decreased appetite
- Vomiting or regurgitation
- Gagging
- Repeated swallowing
- Licking lips
- Increased salivation
- Grinding teeth
- Extending the neck abnormally, especially when swallowing
- Pain when swallowing
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
It's crucial to talk to your vet if you suspect your cat may be experiencing acid reflux.
Diagnosis involves a thorough physical exam, basic laboratory screening tests, radiographs (x-rays), and, in some cases, esophagoscopy – a procedure where a veterinarian inserts a small camera into your cat's esophagus.
When it comes to treatment, dietary changes can help, especially if your cat has been nibbling on table food or a high-fat diet. Medications like antacids, mucosal protectants, and pro-motility agents may also be prescribed based on the underlying cause of your cat's acid reflux.
To help prevent acid reflux, keep your cat indoors, avoid table scraps, and provide a veterinarian-recommended diet. If your kitty starts vomiting, seek prompt veterinary care.
For more in-depth details, check out the following studies:
- Garcia, R. S., et al. "Prevalence of Gastroesophageal Reflux in Cats During Anesthesia and Effect of Omeprazole on Gastric pH." Journal of veterinary internal medicine, vol. 31, no. 3, 2017, pp. 734-742. doi:10.1111/jvim.14704
- Science suggests that despite its uncommon perception, acid reflux can affect cats, impacting their health and wellness.
- Workplace-wellness initiatives could office-wide educational sessions about recognizing the symptoms of chronic diseases such as acid reflux in cats to encourage early detection and treatment.
- Respiratory conditions, including aspiration pneumonia caused by acid reflux, can pose serious health risks for cats, making regular check-ups with a vet essential.
- Eye-health isn't the only aspect of feline health that should be prioritized; fitness and exercise, mental health, skin care, and appropriate nutrition are also vital components of a cat's overall wellness.
- A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that omeprazole, a medication used to treat acid reflux, showed promise in managing the condition during anesthesia in cats.
- In managing a cat's acid reflux, therapies and treatments like dietary changes, antacids, and mucosal protectants may be prescribed in conjunction with stress management techniques and a consistent skincare routine for overall fitness and wellbeing.
