Cat Vomiting: Why is My Cat Throwing Up?

When your cat starts throwing up, it’s a signal that something might be amiss. Healthy cats generally don’t have this problem. So when they do, it's like their body’s way of sending out a distress signal, urging us to take a closer look.

In this guide, we’ll dive into why cat vomiting happens, what it might mean, and how you can ensure your cat gets the care they need to return to their usual, carefree selves.

Acute vs. Chronic Vomiting

When it comes to your cat’s vomiting, you can separate throwing up into two general types: acute and chronic vomiting. Distinguishing between acute and chronic can be crucial for addressing the issue correctly.

What is Acute Cat Vomiting?

Acute vomiting occurs suddenly and is often a one-time event. It might be triggered by something your cat ate—like a bad mouse or an unusual food—or by a temporary issue like hairballs or mild stomach upset. 

What is Chronic Cat Vomiting?

Chronic vomiting, on the other hand, is a recurring issue defined as vomiting three times per month for three or more months. If your cat is vomiting regularly—more than once a week or even daily—it could indicate a more serious underlying problem. Chronic vomiting can be linked to various conditions, such as chronic gastrointestinal issues, a liver disease, or even cancer. This kind of vomiting is not something to brush off; it requires a thorough evaluation by your veterinarian to identify and treat the root cause.

Is My Cat Vomiting, Regurgitating, or Coughing?

When your cat spits up something, it can be hard to tell if they’re vomiting, regurgitating, or just coughing. Understanding the difference is key to figuring out if it’s something to worry about or just a normal feline quirk.

How to Identify Vomiting

Vomiting is an active process, where your cat’s stomach muscles contract, forcing the contents of the stomach or upper intestines up and out. It’s often preceded by signs like drooling, lip licking, or heaving. 

How to Identify Regurgitating

Regurgitation, on the other hand, is a passive process. It happens quickly and without warning, usually right after your cat has eaten. The regurgitated food isn’t digested and may still be in tube-like shapes. It’s as if the food just didn’t make it to the stomach and got sent back up.

How to Identify Coughing

Coughing in cats can sometimes be mistaken for vomiting. When cats cough, they may make gagging noises or even bring up a bit of foam, but it’s not the same as vomiting.

When is Vomiting Normal for Cats?

Vomiting in cats can be normal—yes, you read that right!

Cats, particularly those that groom a lot, may vomit occasionally to rid their stomachs of hairballs. This is their way of clearing the digestive tract.

When a cat eats, food travels quickly from the mouth down the esophagus to the stomach, where powerful acids and enzymes begin breaking down proteins and fats. From there, nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine, and waste moves on to the large intestine for elimination. 

An occasional episode of vomiting after eating too quickly, nibbling on grass, or getting too playful right after a meal is usually not a cause for concern.

However, frequent or chronic vomiting, especially when it’s coupled with other symptoms like lethargy, weight loss, or diarrhea, can signal a more serious issue.

What Does Your Cats Vomit Look Like?

Understanding the appearance of your cat’s vomit can provide valuable clues about what might be causing the issue. Here’s a quick guide to what different types of vomit might indicate.

Bile: A Yellow Liquid

Cat vomit that’s yellow or bile-colored often means your cat’s stomach is empty. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver and can irritate the stomach lining, leading to vomiting.

White Foam

If your cat is vomiting white foam, it can be a sign of irritation or inflammation in the stomach after prolonged vomiting, or vomiting from an empty stomach.

It could also reflect hairballs or indigestion. Vomiting white foam regular could be a cause for concern, but a one-off instance of white foam vomit shouldn't alarm you.

Worms

Seeing worms in cat vomits usually points to a parasitic infection. Intestinal worms can cause a range of digestive issues, including vomiting. If your cat vomits a worm, it is likely a roundworm and you should visit the veterinarian as soon as possible.

Blood

Fresh red blood or blood in the cat's vomit can suggest a more serious problem like ulcers, trauma, or a severe gastrointestinal issue. Dark, brown cat vomit that looks like coffee grounds indicates older bleeding from higher up in the digestive tract.

In all cases, you should consult your veterinarian quickly. Brighter blood could be a puncture or internal trauma from swallowing a foreign object, while darker blood could suggest a wound or deeper internal bleeding.

Clear Liquid

Clear liquid or water in the cat's vomit may indicate that your cat has been vomiting without any solid food, or it could be a sign of excessive salivation or stomach irritation.

They may have also consumed too much water at once. This is not likely a serious issue in one time situations, or if your cat often enjoys drinking lots of water at once.

Food

A cat vomiting of undigested food might suggest your cat has eaten too quickly or has an obstruction. It could also indicate a digestive issue or that your cat is overeating.

It is common for cats to see their favorite food and eat more than they can tolerate. Their eyes are bigger than their stomachs in this case, and vomiting the food back up is common.

Black Liquid

Cat vomit that looks black or tarry, known as melena, often indicates bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, which requires immediate veterinary attention.      

Hairballs

If you spot a hairball in the cat vomit, they likely have been grooming excessively and the hair is irritating their stomach. It's normal for cats to occasionally vomit hairballs, typically once or twice per month.

Common Causes of Cat Vomiting

Understanding why your cat is vomiting can be complex, but knowing some common causes can help you identify potential issues. Here’s a breakdown of common causes of cat vomiting:

Hairballs

As cats groom, they ingest hair, which can form a clump in their stomach. When the hairball becomes too large or uncomfortable, your cat may vomit to get rid of it.

Dietary Issues

Food allergies, overeating, or eating too quickly can upset your cat’s tummy. Allergies to specific ingredients can cause cat vomiting while eating too fast can lead to a stomach that’s overwhelmed and needs to purge.

Ingesting Foreign Objects

Cats are curious creatures and might swallow things like toys, string, or plastic. These foreign materials can cause blockages or irritation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to vomiting.

Toxins

Common household toxins, such as a toxic plant, chemicals, or human foods like chocolate, can make your cat sick. Vomiting is often the body’s way of trying to expel these harmful substances.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

This chronic condition causes inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to persistent cat vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Inflammatory bowel disease can be triggered by food sensitivities or other underlying issues.

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain and vomiting. It’s often linked to dietary indiscretions or infections.

Cancer

Tumors in the gastrointestinal tract or other areas can lead to vomiting, especially if they obstruct or irritate the digestive system.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism, a common endocrine disorder in older cats, can cause various symptoms, including vomiting, due to an overactive thyroid gland affecting metabolism.

Medications

Some medications can upset a cat’s tummy and lead to a cat throwing up as a side effect. Some vomit-causing medications can include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medicines, chemotherapy, dry pills, and even liquid medications.

Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease affects the kidneys' ability to filter toxins from the blood, leading to nausea and vomiting.

Diabetes

Uncontrolled diabetes can cause gastrointestinal upset and vomiting as the body struggles to manage blood sugar levels.

Constipation

When a cat is constipated, they may vomit due to the discomfort and abdominal pressure from not being able to pass stool.

Liver Disease

The liver is crucial for processing toxins, and when it’s not functioning properly, it can lead to vomiting as the body tries to rid itself of waste.

Intestinal Parasites

Worms and other parasites can cause gastrointestinal distress and vomiting in cats.

Bacterial or Viral Infection

Infections can inflame the stomach lining or intestines, leading to vomiting as part of the body’s response to the illness.

Each of these causes may present differently and could require a specific approach to diagnosis and treatment. If your cat vomits frequently or shows other symptoms, a visit to the vet is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Diagnosing the Cause of Cat Throwing Up

Veterinarians use a blend of careful examination and diagnostic tools to pinpoint the cause of vomiting. Your vet will ask about your cat’s vomiting patterns, diet, any changes in behavior, and other symptoms. They’ll also conduct a physical exam to check for signs of pain or abnormalities and if necessary follow up with various tests.

Your feline will benefit if you have a clear idea of their behavior and vomiting patterns. It would help to make note of your answers to the questions a veterinarian might ask so that you're prepared for your vet visit.

Some of the questions they might ask include:

1. How often do your cats vomit?

2. What does the cat vomit look like?

3. When did the vomiting start?

4.  Has there been any change in diet?

5.  Has your cat been eating normally?

6.  Is your cat showing any other symptoms?

7.  Has your cat been exposed to anything toxic?

These questions, though they might seem detailed, are crucial in helping your veterinarian make an accurate diagnosis.

1. Blood Tests

Blood work provides a snapshot of your cat’s overall health, including signs of infection, liver or kidney function, and metabolic status.

2. Abdominal X-rays

X-rays offer a quick, non-invasive view of the internal organs. They can help detect foreign objects, tumors, or unusual gas patterns in the stomach or intestines.

3. Ultrasounds

For a more detailed view, an ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the internal organs. This can uncover issues like masses, fluid buildup, or inflammation that X-rays might miss. It’s particularly useful for examining soft tissues and identifying problems in the cat's digestive tract.

4. Endoscopy

If the vet suspects issues inside the intestinal tract, they may recommend an endoscopy. This involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera through the mouth and down the throat to view the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. It’s also helpful for retrieving foreign objects if necessary.

5. Barium Study

In a barium study, your cat swallows a special contrast material that appears on X-rays. This helps the vet track how food moves through the digestive system and spot any blockages or irregularities.

6. Exploratory Surgery

In some cases, if other tests don’t provide clear answers, exploratory surgery might be needed. This procedure allows the vet to directly inspect the abdominal organs and address any issues found.

The Vet will choose the best diagnosis plan to pinpoint the cause of the vomiting and develop an effective treatment plan. It’s all about putting together the clues to ensure your cat gets the care they need to feel better.

Treatment Options for Vomiting in Cats

When your feline friend is battling bouts of vomiting, treatment can vary based on the underlying cause. Here’s how to tackle the issue from multiple angles:

Dietary Adjustments and Specialized Diets

Cats can be sensitive to certain ingredients or types of food, so your vet might recommend a special diet to help soothe their stomach. 

For instance, a bland diet—such as plain boiled chicken or a high-quality, easily digestible cat food—can be easier on a delicate tummy. If allergies or intolerances are suspected, your vet might suggest a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet.

Medications and Treatments for Underlying Conditions

When vomiting is a symptom of an underlying health issue, addressing that root cause is crucial. For example:

Anti-emetic Medications:

These help control the urge to vomit and can be particularly useful if the vomiting is severe or persistent. Medications like Cerenia for cats might be prescribed to provide relief.

Antacids and Gastroprotectants

If your cat’s vomiting is linked to stomach acid or ulcers, drugs like famotidine or sucralfate can help protect the stomach lining and reduce discomfort.

Parasite Treatments

If intestinal parasites are the culprit, deworming medications like Pyrantel will clear them out and stop the vomiting associated with these invaders.

Antibiotics or Anti-fungals

For infections, appropriate antibiotics or antifungal medications will be prescribed to treat the infection causing the vomiting.

Treatments for Chronic Conditions

If the vomiting is due to chronic conditions like kidney disease or hyperthyroidism, managing the primary illness with specific treatments is essential.

Home Care Tips for Managing Occasional Vomiting 

Keep an eye on what your cat eats and ensure they’re not getting into things they shouldn’t. Prevent access to trash or toxic substances, and stick to a consistent feeding schedule.

Additionally, make sure your cat has access to fresh water at all times. Vomiting can lead to dehydration, so encouraging your cat to drink is crucial as well!

Final Words About Vomiting Cats

Dealing with a vomiting cat can be worrying, but understanding the potential causes and diagnostic steps can help you navigate the situation more confidently. From hairballs to more serious conditions like kidney disease or cancer, a variety of factors can contribute to your feline friend's upset stomach. 

Recognizing the signs and knowing when to seek veterinary help, is crucial in ensuring your cat’s health. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian. They can pinpoint the cause and recommend the best treatment to get your cat back to their happy, healthy self.

Stay vigilant and proactive, and give your cat the best chance for a quick recovery and a return to their normal, playful self. Your care and attention make all the difference in maintaining their well-being.

References

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4. Zoran, D. L. (2015). Vomiting Cat Cases: You Can Figure Them Out.

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