Common Causes of Vomiting in Cats and When to Call the Vet

Understanding Vomiting in Cats

Vomiting is a common occurrence in cats, but it can range from a mild, one-time event to a symptom of a serious medical condition. While occasional vomiting may not be cause for alarm, frequent or persistent vomiting requires veterinary attention. At Lebanon Animal Hospital in Lebanon, TN, we help pet owners determine the cause of their cat’s vomiting and provide the appropriate care to keep them healthy.

Common Causes of Vomiting in Cats

Dietary Causes

  • Eating too quickly – Some cats consume food too fast, leading to regurgitation rather than true vomiting.
  • Dietary indiscretion – Ingesting spoiled food, garbage, or inappropriate human foods can cause stomach upset.
  • Food allergies or intolerances – Some cats have sensitivities to ingredients such as dairy, grains, or certain proteins.

Hairballs (Trichobezoars)

  • Cats groom themselves frequently, and ingested fur can accumulate in the stomach, leading to hairballs.
  • Symptoms include gagging, retching, and producing cylindrical clumps of fur.
  • Regular brushing and hairball-control diets can help reduce their occurrence.

Gastrointestinal Diseases

  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Chronic vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss may indicate IBD.
  • Gastrointestinal infections – Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can cause vomiting.
  • Foreign body obstruction – Cats may swallow string, small toys, or other objects that block the intestines.

Systemic Diseases

  • Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) – As kidney function declines, toxins build up in the bloodstream, leading to nausea and vomiting.
  • Hyperthyroidism – An overactive thyroid can cause vomiting, weight loss, and increased appetite.
  • Diabetes Mellitus – Vomiting can be a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis, a medical emergency requiring urgent care.

Toxins and Poisoning

  • Common household toxins include:
    • Toxic plants (e.g., lilies, poinsettias).
    • Human medications (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen).
    • Cleaning chemicals and antifreeze.
  • Certain human foods, such as chocolate, onions, garlic, and xylitol, can be deadly to cats.

Types of Cat Vomit and What They Indicate

The appearance of vomit can provide clues about the underlying cause:

  • Hairballs – Cylindrical vomit composed of fur.
  • White, foamy vomit – May be due to acid buildup or an empty stomach.
  • Yellow or green vomit – Presence of bile, possibly indicating digestive issues.
  • Bloody vomit – Could be a sign of ulcers, internal bleeding, or a serious illness.
  • Undigested food – Could indicate food intolerance or blockage.
  • Worms in vomit – A sign of intestinal parasites that require deworming treatment.

Explore different types of cat vomit – Purina.

When to Call the Vet: Signs of a Medical Emergency

While occasional vomiting might not be a cause for concern, certain symptoms warrant immediate veterinary attention:

  • Frequent vomiting (multiple times a day or over several days).
  • Vomiting combined with lethargy, diarrhea, or appetite loss.
  • Vomiting blood (fresh or dark “coffee ground” appearance).
  • Dehydration (sunken eyes, dry gums, excessive thirst).
  • Straining to vomit with no result, which could indicate an obstruction.

If your cat displays any of these signs, contact Lebanon Animal Hospital immediately. Schedule an appointment with our experienced veterinarians.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Vomiting in Cats

At Lebanon Animal Hospital, we use a range of diagnostic tools to determine the cause of vomiting:

A. Physical Examination

  • Evaluating hydration status, weight, and abdominal discomfort.

B. Laboratory Tests

  • Bloodwork – Identifies kidney disease, thyroid imbalances, or infections.
  • Fecal exams – Screens for parasites and bacterial infections.
  • Urinalysis – Helps diagnose systemic diseases like diabetes or kidney disease.

C. Imaging (X-Rays & Ultrasound)

  • Used to detect blockages, tumors, or organ abnormalities.

Learn about the importance of veterinary diagnostics.

Treatment Options for Vomiting Cats

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

  • Dietary modifications – Switching to a prescription diet for food allergies or sensitive stomachs.
  • Medications – Anti-nausea drugs, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatories as needed.
  • Fluid therapy – Treating dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
  • Surgery – Required for foreign body removal or tumor excision.

Our veterinarians create individualized treatment plans to ensure the best care for your cat.

Preventing Vomiting in Cats

Diet & Feeding Tips

  • Feed small, frequent meals to prevent overeating.
  • Use a slow feeder bowl for cats that eat too quickly.
  • Avoid sudden diet changes to prevent gastrointestinal upset.

Grooming & Hairball Prevention

  • Brush long-haired cats regularly to reduce hair ingestion.
  • Provide hairball-control diets or supplements if needed.

Environmental Safety

  • Keep toxic plants, medications, and cleaning products out of reach.
  • Ensure your cat has access to clean water and a stress-free environment.

Vomiting in cats can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from minor dietary issues to serious medical conditions. Recognizing patterns, symptoms, and when to seek veterinary care is crucial.

If your cat is experiencing frequent or severe vomiting, Lebanon Animal Hospital is here to help. Our experienced veterinary team provides comprehensive diagnostics, treatment, and preventative care to keep your feline friend healthy.

Concerned about your cat’s vomiting? Schedule an appointment today!