Cat Vomiting: Causes, Concerns, and Care

While an occasional bout of vomiting in cats might not be a cause for alarm, persistent or frequent vomiting can be indicative of underlying health issues. Here is everything you need to know if you notice your cat vomiting.

Types of Cat Vomiting

Vomiting in cats can be categorized into two broad categories: chronic and acute vomiting. 

Acute Vomiting

Acute vomiting refers to sudden, short-term episodes of vomiting in cats.
It can be caused by various factors such as dietary indiscretion (eating something unusual or toxic), infections, hairballs, motion sickness, or other temporary issues.
Acute vomiting typically resolves on its own or with minimal intervention once the underlying cause is identified and addressed.
If acute vomiting persists or is severe, it may require a visit to the veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

Chronic Vomiting

Chronic vomiting is characterized by recurrent or persistent vomiting over an extended period, typically lasting for weeks to months.
It is often indicative of underlying medical conditions or diseases, and it should not be ignored.
Possible causes of chronic vomiting in cats include gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease, gastritis), organ dysfunction (e.g., kidney disease, liver disease), cancer, food allergies, or chronic infections.

What Causes Cats to Vomit?

Cats can vomit for various reasons, and occasional vomiting is not uncommon. Vomiting is a natural defense mechanism for cats to expel something harmful from their stomach or digestive system. Here are some common causes of vomiting in cats:

Dietary Factors

• Eating Too Quickly: Cats that eat too fast can swallow air along with their food, leading to vomiting.
• Sudden Diet Change: Abruptly changing a cat's diet can upset their stomach and lead to vomiting.
• Spoiled Food: Consuming spoiled or contaminated food can cause vomiting.
• Food Allergies or Intolerances: Some cats may have allergies or intolerances to certain ingredients in their food.
• Hairballs: Cats groom themselves by licking their fur, and they may swallow hair in the process. Over time, hair can accumulate in the stomach, leading to the formation of hairballs. Vomiting can help a cat expel these hairballs.

Intestinal Parasites 

Intestinal parasites can attach themselves to the lining of the stomach or intestines, causing irritation and inflammation. This irritation can trigger the body's natural defense mechanisms, including vomiting, as a way to expel the irritants.

Some parasites release toxins as part of their life cycle. These toxins can damage the stomach lining and lead to gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

In some cases, a heavy infestation of worms or other parasites can physically block the digestive tract, which can also lead to vomiting as the body attempts to clear the blockage.

Common symptoms associated with intestinal parasites besides vomiting may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. 

Infections and Diseases

Various infections and diseases can cause vomiting in cats, including viral or bacterial infections, gastrointestinal disorders, pancreatitis, or kidney disease.

• Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV), Feline Calicivirus (FCV), and Feline Herpesvirus (FHV) are examples of viruses that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting.
• Salmonella and Campylobacter are among the bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal problems in cats.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Pancreatitis
• Kidney Disease
• Liver Disease

Foreign Objects

Cats are curious animals and may ingest objects like toys, strings, or small items that can't be digested. This can lead to vomiting if the object irritates the stomach or becomes lodged in the digestive tract.

Cancer

Cancer can affect cats just like it can affect humans, and it can manifest in various parts of the body, including the digestive tract. Digestive tract cancers in cats are relatively common and can lead to a range of symptoms, including vomiting. There are several types of cancers that can affect a cat's digestive system, including oral squamous cell carcinoma, stomach cancer, and intestinal cancer. These cancers can interfere with the normal digestive process, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and decreased appetite.

Cat Vomit Color Chart

Cat vomit can come in various colors, and the color of a cat's vomit can sometimes provide clues about its health. Here's a general cat vomit color chart:

Please note that this chart is for general reference, and cat vomit color alone may not provide a definitive diagnosis. If you notice unusual vomiting in your cat, especially if it's persistent or accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in behavior, it's essential to consult a veterinarian for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Home Remedies for Cat Vomiting

If your cat is vomiting occasionally and doesn't display any other concerning symptoms, you can try some home remedies to help alleviate the issue. However, it's important to keep in mind that these remedies are not a substitute for professional veterinary care, especially if the vomiting persists or worsens. Always consult your veterinarian for advice and guidance. Here are some home remedies that may help:

• Fasting: If your cat has vomited, withhold food for 12-24 hours to give their stomach a chance to settle. Make sure to provide access to clean, fresh water during this time to prevent dehydration.
• Small, Frequent Meals: If your cat is prone to vomiting, feed them smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead of one or two large meals. This can help reduce the strain on the stomach.
• Hairball Remedies: If hairballs are a suspected cause of vomiting, consider using hairball remedies or lubricants. These can help the cat pass hairballs more easily. Consult your veterinarian for appropriate products and dosages.
• Hydration: Ensure your cat is well-hydrated, especially if they've been vomiting. You can encourage drinking by offering fresh water or using a pet water fountain, which some cats prefer. You can also try offering ice cubes for them to lick or small amounts of low-sodium chicken broth (without onions or garlic) to entice them to drink.
• Bland Diet: Offer a bland diet to your cat for a few days. This usually consists of boiled chicken or boiled rice (without any seasoning or additives). You can also try commercial bland diets formulated for cats, which are available at pet stores and veterinary clinics.

Best Dry Cat Food for Sensitive Stomach Vomiting

Suitable for Acute and chronic diarrhea Indigestion and poor adsorption Gastroenteritis and colitis Auxiliary adjustment for intestinal dysfunction

Vomiting in Cats When to Worry?

Here are some guidelines on when to worry about vomiting in cats:

• If vomiting becomes frequent (more than once a day for several days) or if it persists for more than 24-48 hours, it's time to be concerned.
• If you notice blood in your cat's vomit (bright red or dark, coffee-ground-like appearance), this is a serious sign that requires immediate attention. It could indicate internal bleeding, ulcers, or other severe conditions.
• If your cat is lethargic, has diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, or appears to be in distress, you should seek veterinary care promptly.
• If you suspect your cat has ingested a foreign object (like a toy or string) or a toxic substance (such as certain plants, chemicals, or medications), seek immediate veterinary care.
• Persistent vomiting can lead to dehydration in cats, which can be dangerous. Signs of dehydration include dry gums, lethargy, sunken eyes, and skin that doesn't snap back into place when gently pulled.

How Vets Treat Vomiting in Cats

The treatment for vomiting in cats will depend on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. When you take your cat to the vet for vomiting, the veterinarian will typically follow a systematic approach to diagnose and treat the issue:

Depending on the vet's assessment and the cat's symptoms, they may recommend various diagnostic tests, including blood work, urinalysis, X-rays, or ultrasound. These tests can help identify underlying issues such as kidney disease, liver problems, pancreatitis, or gastrointestinal obstructions.

The treatment will depend on the specific diagnosis. Common treatments for vomiting in cats may include:

• Fluid Therapy: If dehydration is present, the vet may administer fluids to rehydrate your cat. For example, electrolyte solutions.
• Medications: If there is an underlying medical condition or infection, the vet may prescribe medications to address it. This could include antibiotics, anti-emetics (to control vomiting), dewormers for cats, or 
  medications to treat specific conditions.
• Dietary Changes: In some cases, a temporary change in diet may be recommended. The vet may suggest a bland diet or a special prescription diet to help soothe the gastrointestinal tract.
• Surgery: If a foreign object or blockage is detected, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove it.
• Hospitalization: In severe cases, or when the cat is unable to keep anything down, hospitalization may be required for more intensive treatment and monitoring.
• Follow-up Care: The vet may schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your cat's progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Is Cat Vomiting Blood An Emergency?

Yes, cat-v vomiting blood is considered a medical emergency, and you should seek immediate veterinary care. Vomiting blood, also known as hematemesis, is a serious and potentially life-threatening symptom in cats. It can be a sign of various underlying medical conditions, such as ingesting toxic substances, some of which can be severe and require prompt attention. 

Conclusion

Cat vomiting can range from benign hairballs to serious underlying health issues. Understanding the common causes, knowing when to be concerned, and providing appropriate care are essential aspects of responsible pet ownership. Always prioritize your cat's well-being and consult a veterinarian when in doubt. With proper attention and care, you can help your feline companion lead a happy and healthy life.