Cat vomiting once in a while, with no other signs, is usually not serious. But regular vomiting isn’t normal. Book a vet check if your cat vomits once a week or more, and see a vet straight away if there’s blood in the vomit, your cat stops eating, seems lethargic, or may have swallowed string, a toxin or an object.
Is it normal for cats to vomit?
Many owners think regular vomiting is just part of being a cat. It isn’t. Dr Andrew Spanner of Walkerville Vet in Adelaide explains that normal vomiting is brief, happens once and doesn’t affect your cat’s appetite. His rule of thumb: “if a cat vomits once a week or more, you should get them checked by a vet.”
Are hairballs the cause?
Hairballs are less often the cause than people think. Cats often carry small, harmless hairballs after grooming. In a short-haired cat, a hairball should cause only the occasional single vomit, with your cat otherwise healthy and eating normally, according to Walkerville Vet. If your cat is vomiting more often, look for another cause with your vet.
When cat vomiting is an emergency
See your vet or nearest emergency vet straight away if your cat:
- Has blood in the vomit, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- Has vomited several times over a few hours
- Is lethargic, weak or hiding
- Won’t eat
- May have eaten string, a toy, a cooked bone, a toxin or human medicine
- Has a sore belly
- Is a kitten, or has an existing medical condition
String is especially dangerous for cats. Walkerville Vet calls it the most dangerous object a cat can swallow and advises against playing with string. If you can see string under your cat’s tongue or from their bottom, don’t pull it. See a vet.
Common causes of cat vomiting
Walkerville Vet lists these common causes:
- Eating too fast or too much, often with dry food or when competing with other cats
- Gastritis or gastroenteritis, often from eating something unsuitable, including prey
- Swallowed objects, such as string, toys or fish hooks, especially in kittens
- Medicines
- Infections, such as feline panleukopaenia, which vaccination prevents
- Worms, which are less common
Some causes can be serious. Lilies can cause vomiting and kidney failure in cats, so read why lilies are toxic to cats. If your male cat is also straining in the litter tray, read about urinary blockage, which is an emergency.
Vomiting in older cats
In older cats, vomiting can be a sign of an underlying illness. Walkerville Vet lists:
- Constipation, the most common cause in older cats at the clinic
- Hyperthyroidism, which can cause a big appetite and vomiting after meals
- Chronic kidney disease, often with more drinking, less appetite and weight loss
- Pancreatitis, liver disease, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease and some cancers
Cats under 1 year or over 10 years who vomit should see a vet. Don’t treat suspected constipation at home without a vet’s diagnosis.
Home tips for cats that vomit after eating
If your vet has ruled out illness, Walkerville Vet suggests:
- Feed small, regular meals instead of free access to food.
- Use a food-dispensing toy or slow feeder.
- Feed cats separately in multi-cat homes.
- Reduce dry food if your vet recommends it.
FAQ
How often is too often for a cat to vomit?
Walkerville Vet’s rule of thumb is that a cat vomiting once a week or more should see a vet. Regular vomiting isn’t normal.
Why does my cat vomit after eating?
Eating too fast, too much, or competing with other cats are common reasons. Hyperthyroidism can also cause vomiting after meals in older cats. Ask your vet to check.
Should I worry if my cat vomits but is acting normal?
A single vomit in a cat that is eating and acting normally is usually not serious. If it happens again, or more than once a week, book a vet check.
What does it mean if my cat vomits and stops eating?
Vomiting with a poor appetite is a red flag. See your vet, as it can be a sign of illness or a swallowed object.
Be ready for the unexpected
Tests and treatment for vomiting can add up. Find out how cat insurance could help with unexpected vet bills.
Sources
- Walkerville Vet, Dr Andrew Spanner: Help! My cat is vomiting
- Australian Veterinary Association: What to do if your pet vomits or has diarrhoea
This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from your vet. If you’re worried about your cat, contact your vet.