If your cat is vomiting, you’re not alone—this is one of the most common health issues cat owners face. But not all vomiting is the same. Sometimes it’s harmless, while other times it signals a serious medical problem.
Types of Cat Vomiting
Understanding the type of vomit can give important clues about what’s wrong.
- Hairball Vomiting – Cats groom themselves constantly, and swallowed fur can clump into hairballs, which are often vomited out.
- Foamy Vomit – Usually linked to stomach irritation, gastritis, or bile.
- Undigested Food Vomiting – May occur if your cat eats too fast or has digestive issues.
- Yellow or Green Vomit – Often bile; could indicate an empty stomach or liver/gallbladder issues.
- Bloody Vomit (Hematemesis) – A red flag that requires urgent veterinary care.
- Clear Liquid Vomit – Can mean stomach irritation or drinking too much water.
- Worm-Related Vomit – Sometimes parasites like roundworms can appear in vomit.
Common Causes of Cat Vomiting
Vomiting can result from many different triggers:
- Hairballs – Very common in long-haired breeds.
- Eating too fast – Food may come up undigested.
- Dietary changes – Sudden switch of food or treats.
- Food intolerance/allergy – Certain proteins or ingredients may upset your cat.
- Parasites – Worm infestations often cause vomiting.
- Toxins – Plants, chemicals, or spoiled food ingestion.
- Infections – Viral or bacterial infections can irritate the stomach.
- Foreign object – Cats may swallow toys, string, or bones, blocking the stomach.
- Chronic diseases – Kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, pancreatitis, or liver issues.
- Cancer – Though less common, tumors can cause persistent vomiting.
Treatments for Cat Vomiting
Home Care (for mild, occasional vomiting):
- Slow feeding: Use puzzle feeders or smaller meals.
- Hairball remedies: Special gels or high-fiber foods.
- Diet adjustment: Try hypoallergenic or sensitive stomach formulas.
- Hydration: Ensure constant fresh water access.
Veterinary Treatment (for persistent or severe vomiting):
- Diagnostics: Bloodwork, x-rays, ultrasound to identify causes.
- Medication: Anti-nausea drugs, dewormers, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatories.
- Surgery: If there’s an obstruction or tumor.
- Special diet: Prescription food tailored for sensitive stomachs or chronic illness.
When to See a Vet Immediately
Seek urgent veterinary help if your cat shows:
- Vomiting blood or coffee-ground-like material.
- Persistent vomiting (more than twice in 24 hours).
- Accompanied symptoms: lethargy, weight loss, diarrhea, drooling, dehydration.
- Signs of toxin ingestion (plants, chemicals, medications).
- A kitten or elderly cat vomiting frequently.
Prevention Tips
- Brush your cat regularly to reduce hairballs.
- Keep dangerous plants and chemicals away.
- Feed small, frequent meals.
- Use parasite prevention treatments.
- Schedule regular vet check-ups.
Occasional vs. Serious Vomiting
| Occasional Vomiting | Serious Vomiting |
|---|---|
| Hairballs | Vomiting blood |
| Eating too fast | Continuous vomiting |
| Minor dietary changes | Vomiting with lethargy/weight loss |
| Rare, isolated events | Associated with diarrhea, dehydration |
FAQs
Q1: Why is my cat vomiting every day?
A: Daily vomiting is not normal and often indicates chronic illness—see your vet.
Q2: Can stress cause a cat to vomit?
A: Yes, stress and anxiety can upset digestion.
Q3: Is cat vomiting the same as regurgitation?
A: No. Vomiting involves stomach contents, while regurgitation happens quickly after eating without nausea.
Q4: Should I change my cat’s food after vomiting?
A: Sometimes, but do it gradually and only after ruling out medical causes.
Q5: Can worms cause cats to vomit?
A: Yes, roundworms and other parasites may be visible in vomit.
Q6: What should I feed a cat after vomiting?
A: Small portions of bland food (like boiled chicken or vet-recommended diets).
Q7: How do I know if vomiting is an emergency?
A: Look for blood, lethargy, dehydration, or frequent episodes—then call your vet.
Q8: Does cat vomiting mean poisoning?
A: It can, especially if sudden and severe—keep toxic plants and foods away.
Q9: Can dehydration result from vomiting?
A: Yes, especially in kittens and older cats.
Q10: Are hairball remedies safe?
A: Yes, vet-approved gels and high-fiber diets are safe and effective.