Why Do Cats Vomit?

Vomiting is one of the most common clinical signs reported in cats. While a single episode may not be cause for alarm, recurrent or persistent vomiting can signal an underlying health issue—ranging from mild dietary problems to life-threatening conditions.

Understanding the difference between normal and concerning vomiting is critical for keeping your cat healthy. Cornell’s Feline Health Center offers additional insights into this important topic.

What Does the Vomit Mean? Types and Their Significance

The color, consistency, and contents of cat vomit offer important diagnostic clues.

  • Clear Liquid: Often linked to stomach irritation from fasting or hairballs.
  • Bile (yellow-green): Could indicate an empty stomach, liver disease, or pancreatitis.
  • Foamy Vomit: May point to gastritis or acid buildup.
  • Undigested Food: Often caused by rapid eating or regurgitation.
  • Foreign Material: Strings, plastic, or fabric may point to obstruction.

For a detailed guide, see Purina’s breakdown of cat vomit types.

Common Causes of Vomiting in Cats

Dietary and Gastrointestinal Triggers

  • Hairballs: Especially common in long-haired breeds.
  • Sudden diet changes: Can upset the stomach.
  • Eating too fast: Leads to regurgitation.
  • Spoiled food or human snacks: Can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
  • Food allergies: Require elimination diets or hypoallergenic foods.

See Purina’s cat diarrhea guide for related digestive concerns.

Infections, Parasites, and Chronic Disease

Toxins and Foreign Objects

  • Toxic plants, medications, cleaning agents.
  • Gastrointestinal foreign bodies, such as strings or toys. Learn more from ACVS.
  • Obstructions often require imaging or exploratory surgery.

When Is Vomiting an Emergency?

Not every vomit is an emergency, but seek immediate veterinary care if your cat shows any of the following:

  • Vomiting more than twice in 24 hours
  • Blood in vomit (bright red or “coffee grounds”)
  • Lethargy or collapse
  • Abdominal pain or bloating
  • Inability to keep food or water down
  • Seizures, disorientation, or pale gums

Cats can dehydrate quickly. If vomiting persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, contact your vet without delay.

How Vets Diagnose Vomiting in Cats

When you visit Westerville Veterinary Clinic, your vet may perform:

  • Physical exam to check hydration, pain, or mass presence.
  • Bloodwork to evaluate organ function.
  • Imaging (X-rays or ultrasound) to assess GI structures and detect blockages or tumors.
  • Exploratory surgery or endoscopy in complex cases.
  • Fecal tests to rule out parasites.

Treating Vomiting in Cats

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:

  • Fluids to correct dehydration
  • Anti-nausea medication (e.g., maropitant or ondansetron)
  • Special diets for GI recovery
  • Antibiotics for bacterial infections
  • Deworming medications
  • Surgery if a foreign body is causing obstruction

If your cat is vomiting due to chronic conditions like CKD or hyperthyroidism, long-term management will be required.

Preventing Vomiting: What You Can Do

  • Feed small, frequent meals to prevent empty stomach vomiting.
  • Brush regularly to reduce hairball formation.
  • Avoid sudden food changes and feed a consistent, vet-approved diet.
  • Keep strings, tinsel, and rubber bands out of reach.
  • Schedule regular wellness exams for early detection of systemic disease.
  • Use hairball prevention products or special diets if needed.

How We Help at Westerville Veterinary Clinic

At Westerville Veterinary Clinic, we offer:

  • Advanced diagnostics
  • Experienced feline care
  • Personalized treatment plans
  • Ongoing health monitoring for chronic GI conditions

Worried about your cat’s vomiting? Make an appointment today.

FAQs

How do I know if my cat’s vomiting is serious? 
If it’s frequent, includes blood, or is accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy or diarrhea, seek veterinary care right away.

What should I do if my cat ate something suspicious? 
Contact your vet immediately. If ingestion occurred recently, they may induce vomiting or recommend further diagnostics.

Can vomiting be caused by stress? 
Yes. Stress can lead to GI upset or trigger conditions like IBD. Enrichment, consistent routines, and calming strategies can help.

Vomiting in cats is common—but not always benign. Knowing what to watch for, when to seek help, and how to prevent future issues can make a real difference in your cat’s long-term health.

Visit Westerville Veterinary Clinic or book an appointment if you notice any signs of concern. Early intervention saves lives—and keeps your feline friend feeling their best.