My pet eats too fast and then vomits. How can I prevent this?

Some pets are so excited about their food that they scarf it down in a few seconds—only to have the food come back up moments later. This can be frustrating for both you and your pup or kitty.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to slow your pet down and help keep their food in their stomach:

• Purchase a slow feeder bowl.

These food dishes have ridges or raised areas that break up the food and prevent your pet from taking huge mouthfuls all at once.

You may also use a muffin tin to help challenge your dog and get them to eat more slowly. Simply, turn a muffin tin upside down and spread the kibble between the cups and ridges. Your dog will need to move the kibble from various angles, between the cups and ridges, in order to consume.

• Use a puzzle feeder that dispenses kibbles a few at a time.

Like a slow feeder, this will help your pet eat at a more reasonable pace.

• Feed smaller amounts more often throughout the day.

Your pet may still inhale their food—but the smaller quantity at each meal makes it more likely they’ll keep the food down.

• If you feel your pet is eating fast due to anxiety or a worry that someone may take their food, consider feeding them in a room by themselves, or working with a trainer or behaviorist.
• Talk to your vet.

This is a good final step, because your vet can rule out underlying causes like parasites that could be contributing to the issue.

Make as many observations as possible (like whether there is any retching, how long after eating it happens, and whether the food is digested or intact). This will help your vet determine if there’s something else causing your pet to throw up.

Eating at a normal pace eases digestion and allows your pet to process all the healthy nutrients from their meals—not to mention, they’ll probably taste and enjoy their food a little more!