Cat Vomiting: Causes and How to Help

Seeing your cat vomit can be alarming, especially if it happens frequently. Occasional vomiting may not be a cause for concern, but repeated or severe episodes can indicate an underlying health issue. Vomiting in cats can be triggered by minor irritations, such as eating too quickly, or more serious conditions like gastrointestinal diseases, infections, or organ dysfunction. Because vomiting is a symptom rather than a standalone illness, identifying the root cause is essential for effective treatment. If your cat is vomiting persistently or showing additional signs of distress, a veterinary visit is the best course of action. Contact Pinnacle Veterinary Specialists in Glen Mills, PA, at (610) 477-8797.

 

 

What Are Some Common Causes of Vomiting in Cats?

Cats may vomit for a variety of reasons, ranging from simple dietary issues to serious medical conditions. Recognizing the potential causes can help you determine when veterinary care is necessary.

Dietary Indiscretion and Food Sensitivities

Dietary indiscretion occurs when a cat eats something that doesn’t agree with its stomach, such as human food, spoiled kibble, or even non-food items. Additionally, some cats develop food allergies or sensitivities, leading to chronic vomiting. If your cat vomits, it may have an intolerance to certain ingredients or specific proteins. Switching to a high-quality, easily digestible diet, under the guidance of your veterinarian, may help resolve the issue.

Hairballs and Excessive Grooming

Many cat owners are familiar with hairballs, another frequent cause of vomiting. When a cat grooms itself, loose fur is ingested and usually passes through the digestive system. However, in some cases, the fur accumulates in the stomach and forms a hairball, which is eventually expelled through vomiting. Long-haired breeds and cats that groom excessively are more prone to this issue. While occasional hairballs are normal, frequent vomiting of hairballs could indicate an underlying gastrointestinal problem or excessive grooming due to stress or skin conditions.

Gastrointestinal Diseases

Chronic vomiting in cats may be a sign of an underlying gastrointestinal disease, such as:

• Chronic Inflammatory Enteropathy (CIE): A chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.
• Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by infections, dietary indiscretion, or parasites.
• Intestinal Blockages: Foreign objects, such as string, rubber bands, or plastic, can obstruct the digestive tract, leading to persistent vomiting and a refusal to eat.
• Cancer: Can occur in the stomach, small intestine, large intestine, or rectum. The most common type is GI small cell lymphoma.

If your cat experiences prolonged vomiting or other symptoms like lethargy, diarrhea, or appetite loss, a veterinary visit is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.

When Vomiting is a Sign of a Serious Health Condition

While occasional vomiting may not require immediate medical attention, frequent or severe episodes can indicate a serious health concern.

Kidney Disease and Liver Problems

Vomiting is a common symptom of kidney disease, particularly in older cats. As kidney function declines, toxins build up in the bloodstream, leading to nausea and vomiting. Cats with kidney disease may also show signs of increased thirst, weight loss, and poor appetite. Similarly, liver disease can contribute to vomiting, often accompanied by jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), lethargy, and changes in behavior.

Pancreatitis and Endocrine Disorders

Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. This condition may develop suddenly or become chronic, requiring ongoing management. Endocrine disorders, such as hyperthyroidism, can also lead to frequent vomiting. Cats with hyperthyroidism often exhibit increased hunger, weight loss, hyperactivity, and restlessness.

Infections and Parasites

Bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections can irritate a cat’s digestive system and result in vomiting. Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), a severe viral infection, often leads to persistent vomiting and diarrhea. Intestinal parasites, such as roundworms and hookworms, can also trigger vomiting, especially in kittens or outdoor cats. Regular veterinary check-ups and parasite prevention are essential in reducing the risk of these infections.

What to Do If Your Cat is Vomiting

If your cat vomits once and otherwise appears healthy, monitoring them at home may be appropriate. However, if vomiting becomes more frequent or is accompanied by other symptoms, veterinary care is necessary. Here are a few steps to take if your cat is vomiting:

Observe the Vomiting Frequency and Appearance

Take note of how often your cat vomits and what the vomit looks like. Vomiting that contains bile, blood, or undigested food may indicate different underlying causes. If the vomit has a coffee-ground appearance, this could suggest internal bleeding and requires urgent veterinary attention.

Provide Fresh Water

Dehydration is a risk for cats that vomit repeatedly. Ensure your cat has access to fresh water and monitor their hydration by checking for signs like dry gums or lethargy. If your cat refuses to drink or appears weak, veterinary intervention is necessary.

When Is It Necessary to Contact Your Veterinarian?

Knowing when to seek veterinary care is crucial for your cat’s health. Call Pinnacle Veterinary Specialists in Glen Mills, PA, if your cat experiences:

• Vomiting that lasts longer than 24 hours
• Blood in the vomit
• Lethargy, weakness, or behavioral changes
• Loss of appetite for more than a day
• Signs of dehydration (sunken eyes, dry gums, excessive panting)
• Weight loss or chronic vomiting episodes

Preventing vomiting in cats starts with proper care and nutrition. Feeding a high-quality diet, minimizing stress, and providing routine veterinary care can support your cat’s digestive system. If vomiting becomes frequent or severe, professional evaluation is the best step toward identifying the cause and keeping your cat healthy. For expert care, contact Pinnacle Veterinary Specialists at (610) 477-8797 today.