Cat Vomiting
Cat
Occasional vomiting in cats can be normal (such as hairballs), but frequent or severe vomiting is a cause for concern. Vomiting involves the forceful expulsion of stomach contents and should be distinguished from regurgitation, which is passive and involves undigested food.
Possible Causes
- Hairballs, especially in long-haired breeds
- Eating too fast or dietary indiscretion
- Food allergies or sensitivity
- Intestinal parasites (roundworms, tapeworms)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Kidney disease or renal failure
- Hyperthyroidism
- Pancreatitis
- Ingestion of toxic plants (lilies, poinsettia) or chemicals
- Foreign body obstruction
When to See a VetImportant
Seek veterinary care if any of the following apply:
- Vomiting occurs more than 2-3 times in 24 hours
- Vomit contains blood (bright red or dark, coffee-ground appearance)
- Your cat is also lethargic, not eating, or has diarrhea
- Vomiting persists for more than 24 hours
- You suspect your cat ingested something toxic or a foreign object
- Your cat is losing weight or vomiting has become chronic
- Your cat is a kitten or senior (higher risk of dehydration)
First Aid TipsHome Care
These tips can help while you monitor the situation or wait for your vet appointment:
- Withhold food for 12 hours but keep fresh water available
- After 12 hours, offer small amounts of bland food (boiled chicken and rice)
- Ensure your cat stays hydrated — offer ice cubes or a small amount of chicken broth
- Remove any potential toxins or dangerous items from your cat's environment
- Monitor litter box usage for signs of diarrhea or constipation
- Keep a log of vomiting episodes (timing, contents, frequency) for your vet
Related Symptoms
Breeds Commonly Affected
Is this an emergency?
If your pet is in severe distress, call your vet or an emergency animal hospital immediately. For poisoning emergencies, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
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