It’s always concerning when your cat throws up, and as a responsible pet owner, it’s natural to want to figure out why this is happening. While occasional vomiting can be normal for cats, frequent or severe vomiting could signal an underlying health issue. Understanding the common causes of vomiting in cats is crucial for determining when it's a simple, harmless occurrence and when it’s a sign that your cat may need medical attention.

In this article, we’ll explore the most common reasons why cats vomit, what signs to look out for, and how to help your cat feel better.

1. Hairballs: A Common Cause of Vomiting

1.1 Why Hairballs Cause Vomiting in Cats

One of the most common reasons for vomiting in cats, particularly in long-haired breeds, is hairballs. Cats groom themselves frequently, and in the process, they swallow loose fur, which can form a ball in their stomach. When the ball of fur becomes too large or uncomfortable, your cat will vomit it up.

Hairballs are a normal part of a cat’s grooming behavior, but excessive vomiting of hairballs can become a problem, especially if the cat struggles to expel them.

1.2 Signs of Hairballs

If your cat is vomiting due to hairballs, you may notice:

• Long strands of fur in the vomit.
• Dry heaving or gagging before the actual vomiting occurs.
• Increased grooming behavior, especially if your cat is trying to get rid of loose fur.
• Lethargy or loss of appetite if the cat is having trouble passing the hairball.

1.3 How to Help

To reduce hairball issues:

• Brush your cat regularly, especially if they have long fur, to remove loose hair before it can be ingested.
• Provide a hairball remedy, such as specially formulated food, gels, or treats that help the fur pass through your cat’s digestive system.
• Ensure that your cat has access to plenty of fresh water to aid digestion.

2. Dietary Issues: Vomiting Due to Food

2.1 Why Food Causes Vomiting in Cats

Dietary issues are another common cause of vomiting in cats. If your cat eats too quickly, consumes something that doesn’t agree with them, or has a food intolerance, they may vomit shortly after eating.

Some cats also have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients in their food, which can lead to vomiting. Additionally, a sudden change in diet can upset your cat’s stomach and cause them to vomit.

2.2 Signs of Dietary Issues

Signs that your cat’s vomiting is related to food include:

• Vomiting shortly after eating or drinking.
• Loose stools or diarrhea, which could indicate food intolerance or sensitivity.
• Gagging or retching after eating too quickly.
• Signs of discomfort after meals, like avoiding food or pawing at the mouth.

2.3 How to Help

To address dietary causes of vomiting:

• Feed smaller meals more frequently to prevent your cat from eating too quickly. You can also use a slow feeder bowl to encourage slower eating.
• Switch to a hypoallergenic or easily digestible food if you suspect food sensitivities.
• Avoid sudden diet changes. If you want to change your cat’s food, transition gradually over 7-10 days.
• Consider providing your cat with more frequent, smaller meals to minimize the chances of vomiting.

3. Gastrointestinal Issues: Vomiting from Stomach Problems

3.1 Why Gastrointestinal Issues Cause Vomiting

Gastrointestinal (GI) issues can also cause cats to vomit. Conditions like gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines), or intestinal parasites can disrupt digestion and lead to vomiting.

In some cases, an obstruction in the intestines, caused by hairballs, foreign objects, or tumors, can lead to vomiting as the body tries to expel the blockage.

3.2 Signs of Gastrointestinal Issues

If your cat has a gastrointestinal problem, you may notice:

• Frequent vomiting, often without hairballs or food.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Loss of appetite or changes in eating habits.
• Abdominal pain (your cat may be sensitive to touch or may hunch their back).
• Lethargy or dehydration.

3.3 How to Help

If you suspect a gastrointestinal issue is causing vomiting, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. They may recommend:

• Blood tests and X-rays to identify inflammation, infections, or obstructions.
• Medications such as anti-nausea drugs, probiotics, or antibiotics if an infection is present.
• Specialized diet (like bland food) to soothe the digestive system.

4. Infections: Vomiting Due to Illness

4.1 Why Infections Cause Vomiting in Cats

Various infections, including viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections, can cause vomiting in cats. Feline distemper (panleukopenia), feline herpesvirus, and bacterial infections are just a few examples that can lead to vomiting as part of a broader set of symptoms.

Parasites, like worms, can also lead to vomiting as they disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system.

4.2 Signs of Infection

If your cat has an infection, they may show:

• Fever or chills.
• Frequent vomiting and possible diarrhea.
• Loss of appetite or difficulty eating.
• Lethargy, weakness, or dehydration.
• Coughing, sneezing, or other respiratory symptoms if a viral infection is present.

4.3 How to Help

If you suspect your cat has an infection, a visit to the vet is essential. The vet will likely run tests to determine the cause of the vomiting. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:

• Antibiotics or antiviral medications to treat bacterial or viral infections.
• Deworming medications if parasites are the cause.
• Supportive care, like IV fluids to address dehydration and help with recovery.

5. Toxins and Poisoning: Vomiting Due to Ingestion of Harmful Substances

5.1 Why Toxins Cause Vomiting in Cats

Cats are curious creatures, and they sometimes ingest things they shouldn’t. Common household toxins, like houseplants (e.g., lilies, poinsettias), chocolate, onions, or cleaning products, can cause vomiting as the body attempts to expel the harmful substance.

5.2 Signs of Poisoning

Signs that your cat might have ingested something toxic include:

• Sudden onset of vomiting.
• Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth.
• Diarrhea or changes in bowel movements.
• Tremors, seizures, or difficulty breathing.
• Lethargy or loss of coordination.

5.3 How to Help

If you suspect your cat has ingested something toxic, immediate veterinary attention is required. The vet will:

• Induce vomiting if the substance was recently ingested and it’s safe to do so.
• Administer activated charcoal to help absorb toxins.
• Provide supportive care (e.g., IV fluids, medications) to help your cat recover.

6. Stress and Anxiety: Vomiting Due to Emotional Distress

6.1 Why Stress Causes Vomiting in Cats

Stress and anxiety can also cause vomiting in cats. This is often referred to as stress-induced vomiting. Cats are sensitive creatures, and changes in their environment—such as moving to a new home, a new pet or person in the household, or changes in routine—can make them anxious, leading to digestive upset and vomiting.

6.2 Signs of Stress-Induced Vomiting

In addition to vomiting, stressed cats may:

• Exhibit changes in behavior, such as hiding or becoming more reclusive.
• Excessive grooming or licking.
• Urinate or defecate outside the litter box due to anxiety.
• Loss of appetite or reluctance to eat.

6.3 How to Help

If your cat’s vomiting is stress-related, it’s essential to create a calming environment. You can:

• Use feline pheromone diffusers (such as Feliway) to help reduce anxiety.
• Provide your cat with a quiet, safe space where they can retreat to feel secure.
• Keep their routine consistent, especially around feeding times and interactions.

7. When to See a Veterinarian

While an occasional vomit here and there is often normal, frequent or severe vomiting should not be ignored. It's time to visit the vet if:

• Your cat vomits more than once a day or has persistent vomiting over several days.
• There is blood in the vomit or the vomit is green or yellow (suggesting bile).
• Your cat is showing other signs of illness