Why Do Cats Throw Up [10 Top Reasons]

Why do cats throw up? Let’s find out together…

If you’re a cat owner, you know the joy and love that comes with having a feline friend. But with that joy sometimes comes the not-so-pleasant task of cleaning up after them, especially when they throw up.

You may be wondering why your cat is doing this and what you can do to help them. In this short blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why cats throw up and what you can do to keep your kitty healthy and happy.

Why Do Cats Throw Up

Cats can vomit for a variety of reasons, including hairballs, eating too fast, or eating something inappropriate. Vomiting can also be a symptom of more serious conditions, such as kidney disease or cancer.

If your cat is vomiting frequently or has other symptoms, such as loss of appetite or lethargy, it’s important to take them to the vet for evaluation.

Treatment for vomiting in cats may include medication, changes in diet, or other interventions depending on the underlying cause.

Let’s break it down further…

Reasons why cats throw up

The following are some common reasons why cats throw up:

1. Foreign objects or blockages

Cats are naturally curious and may ingest strange objects such as thread, toys, or other items. These things can create gastrointestinal blockages, resulting in vomiting. If you feel your cat has consumed something they should not have, call your veterinarian right once.

Depending on the circumstances, your veterinarian may advise you to undergo diagnostic testing such as X-rays or ultrasounds to locate and identify the foreign object.

Surgical intervention may be required in some circumstances to eliminate the impediment. Prompt intervention is required to avoid complications and maintain your cat’s health.

2. Hairball obstruction

Cats groom themselves by licking their fur, and they may ingest stray hair in the process. This hair might cause irritation in the cat’s stomach and lead to vomiting.

To help your cat with hairballs, brush their coat on a regular basis to eliminate loose hair. This lessens the amount of fur your cat consumes.

You can also utilize hairball cures, such as petroleum- or lubricant-based solutions, or provide specialist cat food that helps with hairball management. These products aid in the passage of hair through the digestive system.

3. Sudden diet changes

Changing your cat’s diet abruptly can cause gastric upset and vomiting. To avoid this, adjust to a new food gradually over a period of several days.

Begin by combining a little amount of the new food with the old meal, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food while decreasing the proportion of the old food. This gradual shift helps your cat’s digestive system to acclimate and lowers the possibility of vomiting.

4. Food allergies or sensitivities

Certain food elements, such as proteins or grains, might cause allergies or sensitivities in cats. If you suspect you have a food allergy, your veterinarian may advise you to follow a hypoallergenic diet or an elimination diet.

These diets aid in identifying and removing allergens from your cat’s food. Working with your veterinarian to decide the best course of action and ensure your cat obtains sufficient nutrition while avoiding allergens is critical.

5. Intestinal parasites

Worms, such as roundworms and tapeworms, are frequent parasites in cats that can cause vomiting. Regular deworming is required to keep these parasites from causing gastrointestinal problems.

To help eliminate any existing parasites, your veterinarian can recommend a proper deworming program and medicines. Good hygiene, such as properly disposing of excrement, also aids in preventing re-infestation.

6. Gastrointestinal infections

Cats can get viral or bacterial illnesses that cause vomiting in the gastrointestinal tract.

vaccines are critical in preventing viral infections, so make sure your cat is up to date on his or her vaccines.

If your cat exhibits symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, you should visit your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Your veterinarian may prescribe drugs to ease symptoms and battle the illness, depending on the severity and kind of infection.

7. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Cats with inflammatory bowel disease have persistent inflammation of the gastrointestinal system. It might result in persistent vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and a loss of appetite.

The examination of intestinal tissue is often required for the diagnosis of IBD. If your cat has IBD, your veterinarian may advise you to have a biopsy or other diagnostic tests performed.

Treatment options may include dietary changes, such as hypoallergenic or easily digestible meals, anti-inflammatory medicine, and other supportive care measures.

Regular monitoring and follow-up with your veterinarian are essential for effectively managing this illness.

Learn more about common illnesses in cats.

8. Dietary indiscretion

Cats are inherently interested, and they may consume non-food items or eat improper stuff such as plants, harmful chemicals, or damaged food.

Remove access to the potential hazard if you suspect your cat has consumed something that is causing vomiting. Keep an eye on your cat and see if the vomiting continues or if other signs emerge.

If your cat continues to vomit or shows indications of distress, visit your veterinarian for advice and proper treatment.

9. Eating too fast

Eating too fast can cause your cat to vomit because when they eat too quickly, they swallow a lot of air along with their food, which can cause bloat and discomfort in their stomach. Additionally, cats that eat too quickly may not properly chew their food, making it harder to digest.

To fix this issue, there are a few things you can do:

1. Use a Slow-Feeder Bowl: These bowls have ridges and dividers that make it more difficult for your cat to eat quickly. This forces them to eat more slowly and chew their food properly.
2. Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Another way to prevent your cat from eating too quickly is to feed them smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This can help prevent them from getting too hungry and eating too quickly.
3. Remove Food Competition: If you have more than one cat, make sure they each have their own food bowl. This can prevent competition for food, which can cause stress and lead to fast eating.

10. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can result in vomiting in cats. Symptoms of pancreatitis in cats include gastrointestinal pain, loss of appetite, and lethargy.

If you suspect your cat has pancreatitis, contact your veterinarian immediately for an examination and appropriate diagnosis.

Pancreatitis treatment may include hospitalization, fluid therapy to maintain hydration, pain control, and a low-fat diet to lessen the pancreas’ workload.

Learn more about how to tell if your cat is sick.

Signs your cat is about to vomit

There are a few signs that your cat may exhibit just before vomiting. These signs may include:

1. Licking or smacking of the lips
2. Drooling
3. Swallowing excessively
4. Gagging or retching
5. Hunching over or assuming a crouched position
6. Running to a specific area of the house (like a tile floor or litter box)
7. Meowing or vocalizing in distress

It’s important to note that not all cats exhibit these signs before vomiting and some cats may vomit without exhibiting any signs beforehand.

Learn more about how to tell if your cat is suffering from anxiety.

How to clean up your cat’s throw up

Here is a step-by-step process to clean up your cat’s throw-up:

1. Wear gloves: Before beginning the clean-up process, put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands from any potential germs.
2. Remove the excess vomit: Use a paper towel, spoon, or knife to remove as much of the vomit as possible. Be sure to discard any solid waste in a plastic bag.
3. Absorb the remaining liquid: Use paper towels, or an absorbent powder like cat litter, to soak up the remaining liquid. Cover the vomit spot with the material and apply pressure to absorb the liquid.
4. Disinfect the area: Once you have removed all the vomit and absorbed the remaining liquid, sanitize the area. You can use any disinfectant cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to clean the area. Apply the cleaning solution to the area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to ensure that any bacteria or germs are killed.
5. Blot dry the area: After disinfecting the area, use fresh paper towels to blot dry the entire spot and ensure that it is completely clean and dry.
6. Dispose of gloves and cleaning materials: Once you have completed the clean-up process, dispose of the gloves and any cleaning materials in a plastic bag and seal it. Then, wash your hands carefully to prevent any potential contamination.

When to Seek Veterinary Assistance For Your Cat Throwing Up

If your cat is vomiting occasionally but seems otherwise healthy, you may not need to take any immediate action. However, if your cat’s vomiting persists or becomes more frequent, or if your cat is displaying other symptoms like lethargy, decreased appetite, or diarrhea, it is best to seek veterinary assistance.

Additionally, if your cat vomits blood or has trouble breathing, it could be an emergency and you should seek immediate veterinary care. In general, if your cat vomits more than once a month, or keeps vomiting repeatedly, it’s time to see your vet to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Learn more about the signs of trauma in cats.

Treatment for vomiting in cats

The treatment for vomiting in cats will depend on the underlying cause of the vomiting. It is important to take your cat to a veterinarian to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Here are some potential treatment options:

1. Medication: In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe medication to control vomiting or relieve inflammation, such as maropitant citrate (brand name Cerenia), antiemetics, and stomach protectants.
2. Dietary Changes: Your veterinarian may recommend dietary changes, such as a prescription diet, to help with gastrointestinal issues, hairballs, or food-related allergies.
3. Surgery: If a foreign body is lodged in your cat’s digestive tract and is causing vomiting, surgery may be necessary.
4. Hospitalization & IV Fluids: In severe cases, hospitalization and intravenous (IV) fluids may be necessary to rehydrate your cat and help support its recovery.

Preventive Measures to Reduce Vomiting in Cats

Here are some common preventive measures that can help reduce vomiting in cats:

1. Regular grooming: Brushing your cat’s hair prevents hairballs, which can lead to vomiting.
2. Feed smaller and frequent meals: Overwhelming your cat’s stomach with too much food can cause vomiting.
3. Limit the number of treats: Treats should only be given occasionally and in small quantities.
4. Keep them hydrated: Ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times, and encourage them to drink regularly. Dehydration can cause vomiting in cats.
5. Change food gradually: A sudden change in diet can upset your cat’s stomach, so it is important to gradually transition to a new diet.
6. Identify and avoid food allergies: Some cats may be allergic to certain foods, and it is important to identify these and avoid them.
7. Keep the environment clean: Regularly cleaning your cat’s litter box and food and water bowls can help prevent bacterial infections that may cause vomiting.
8. Prevention and control of parasites: Keeping your cat free from parasites can help prevent vomiting.
9. Visit the veterinarian: Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help identify any health issues that may cause vomiting, allowing for early intervention and treatment to prevent further vomiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do cats throw up so often?

Cats tend to throw up more frequently than other pets because they have sensitive stomachs. Additionally, cats groom themselves frequently, which can lead to the ingestion of hair and other debris that can make them feel sick and trigger vomiting. Certain health conditions like hairballs, gastrointestinal disease, or eating too quickly can also cause cats to throw up.

Is vomiting normal for cats?

Vomiting can be normal for cats if it occurs infrequently and without other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or diarrhea. However, if your cat is vomiting excessively or continuously, there may be an underlying health issue, and it is best to consult with your veterinarian.

How do I know if my cat’s vomiting is serious?

If your cat is vomiting frequently, appears lethargic, has a loss of appetite, or experiences diarrhea, it could be a sign of a more serious condition. You should take your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Can hairballs make cats throw up?

Yes, hairballs can cause cats to throw up. When cats groom themselves, they often ingest hair, which can build up in their digestive system. If this hair does not pass through the digestive tract properly, it can cause discomfort and vomiting.

What should I do if my cat is throwing up?

If your cat is throwing up frequently, you should first make sure that they have access to plenty of water to avoid dehydration. If your cat’s vomiting persists or if they appear lethargic, have a loss of appetite, or experience diarrhea, it is best to take them to your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

How can I prevent my cat from throwing up?

To prevent your cat from throwing up, you can try feeding them smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. Additionally, make sure that your cat is drinking plenty of water and has access to fresh water at all times. Regular grooming and brushing can also help prevent hairballs, which can cause vomiting. If you are still concerned, it is best to consult with your veterinarian to develop a plan tailored to your cat’s specific needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it may be unpleasant to clean up after your cat’s vomit, it’s important to understand that throwing up is a common and natural behavior in felines. From hairballs to dietary issues, there are a number of reasons why cats may vomit.

By keeping an eye on your cat’s behavior and taking steps to address any potential health issues, you can help ensure that your feline friend stays happy and healthy. Remember, when it comes to your cat’s health, it’s better to be safe than sorry!