Why Is My Cat Throwing Up? 7 Causes and Solutions

If you’re a cat owner, you’ve likely experienced the unsettling sight of your feline friend vomiting. While an occasional hairball or mild upset stomach may be normal, frequent vomiting could indicate a more serious underlying issue. Understanding why your cat is throwing up is crucial for ensuring their health and well-being. In this article, we’ll explore seven common reasons why cats vomit and provide practical solutions to help you address this concerning behavior.

1. Hairballs: A Common Culprit

Hairballs are perhaps the most common cause of vomiting in cats. Cats groom themselves frequently, and in the process, they ingest loose hair. Over time, hair accumulates in their stomach, forming hairballs that they eventually expel through vomiting.

Solution:

• • Regular grooming: Brush your cat daily to remove loose hair, especially if your cat has long fur.
  • Hairball remedies: Specialized cat foods or gels designed to reduce hairballs can greatly help.
    • Hairball-Reducing Cat Food: Specially formulated kibble and gel blends to help pass hairballs more easily and support digestive health.
      Shop specialized hairball formula
      
  • Increase fiber intake: Adding fiber-rich supplements or foods to your cat’s diet can help hairballs pass more easily through their digestive tract.

2. Dietary Changes or Food Intolerance

Sudden dietary changes or food intolerance can trigger vomiting in cats. Cats have sensitive stomachs, and a sudden switch in their diet can upset their digestive system.

Solution:

• Gradual diet change: Introduce new foods slowly by mixing them with their current diet over a period of 7-10 days.
• Hypoallergenic diets: If food intolerance is suspected, consult your veterinarian about trying hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diets.
• Avoid table scraps: Human foods can irritate your cat’s digestive system; stick to high-quality cat food formulated specifically for felines.

3. Eating Too Quickly

Some cats tend to eat too quickly, causing them to swallow air along with their food. This rapid eating can lead to vomiting shortly after meals.

Solution:

• • Slow-feeder bowls: Invest in specially designed bowls that slow down eating by making your cat work a bit harder to reach the food.
    • Slow-Feeder Bowl: A raised, maze-style dish that spaces out your cat’s kibble to prevent gulping and reduce post-meal vomiting.
      Buy a slow-feeder bowl
      
  • Smaller, frequent meals: Instead of one or two large meals, feed your cat smaller portions several times a day.
  • Elevated feeding stations: Raising your cat’s food bowl slightly can also help reduce rapid eating and minimize vomiting.

4. Gastrointestinal Disorders

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastritis, and other gastrointestinal disorders can cause chronic vomiting in cats. Symptoms may include diarrhea, weight loss, or changes in appetite.

Solution:

• Veterinary consultation: If vomiting persists, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to diagnose potential gastrointestinal disorders.
• Prescription diets: Your veterinarian might recommend special prescription diets to reduce inflammation and soothe your cat’s digestive tract.
• Medication: Anti-inflammatory medications or probiotics may be recommended by your vet to manage gastrointestinal disorders effectively.

5. Parasites and Infections

Internal parasites such as roundworms or infections caused by bacteria or viruses may lead to vomiting in cats. Young kittens and outdoor cats are especially at risk.

Solution:

• Regular deworming: Ensure your cat receives routine parasite prevention treatments recommended by your veterinarian.
• Veterinary check-ups: Regular vet visits and fecal tests can detect infections early, allowing prompt treatment.
• Hygiene: Keep your cat’s living area clean and hygienic to reduce exposure to parasites and pathogens.

6. Foreign Objects or Obstructions

Cats are curious creatures and might ingest foreign objects like string, plastic, or small toys. These objects can cause vomiting and potentially lead to dangerous intestinal obstructions.

Solution:

• Cat-proof your home: Keep small objects, strings, and plastic items out of your cat’s reach.
• Monitor your cat’s behavior: If you suspect your cat has ingested a foreign object, seek immediate veterinary attention.
• Immediate veterinary intervention: Prompt diagnosis and treatment, including possible surgical removal, can prevent serious complications.

7. Underlying Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or liver disease, can cause chronic vomiting in cats, especially older felines.

Solution:

• Regular veterinary screenings: Routine health check-ups and blood tests can identify underlying conditions early.
• Appropriate treatment: Follow your veterinarian’s recommended treatments, including dietary changes, medications, or supportive care.
• Monitor and manage chronic conditions: Regular monitoring and ongoing veterinary care can greatly improve your cat’s quality of life.

Conclusion: When to Seek Veterinary Help

Occasional vomiting might not be cause for alarm, but frequent or persistent vomiting requires immediate attention. Understanding the potential causes of why your cat is throwing up can help you take proactive steps to address the issue. Always monitor your cat closely, implement preventive measures, and seek veterinary advice if you notice additional symptoms such as lethargy, weight loss, diarrhea, or changes in appetite.

Your cat’s health is essential, and early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming serious problems. If in doubt, always consult your veterinarian to ensure your feline companion remains happy and healthy.

CTA: Concerned about your cat’s vomiting? Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian today to ensure your furry friend receives the care they need.