Why Your Cat Is Vomiting

Just like humans, cats also experience the unpleasantness that is vomiting. Fortunately, vomiting doesn't always signify that there is something gravely wrong with your cat and more often than not, there is a perfectly reasonable explanation for it.

Reasons why your cat may vomit

Sudden diet changes

If your cat is used to the same diet, any changes that you want to make needs to be done gradually, otherwise it can upset their stomach and cause them to be sick.

Food allergies

Some cats may vomit if they can't tolerate corn and grains that is commonly found in dry food.

Medication 

Some medications can cause a stomach upset. If that's the case take your cat to the vets to be prescribed something else.

Eating too much too quickly

Some cats will eat their meals far too quickly and even swallow it without properly chewing it. This can cause stomach bloating and irritation, causing sickness. If this is the case, try feeding your cat regular, light and smaller meals. And always choose the highest quality food possible.

Motion sickness

Some cats can experience motion sickness. If you need to take your cat on a journey, you should do some short practice runs prior to your genuine, longer journey. You can also avoid feeding them prior to your journey and cover up their carrier with a towel.

Hairballs

Hairballs are common and vomiting is quite a usual way for a cat to expel them. Eating grass is a common way for cats to help bring up a hairball.
 

If your cat is vomiting a lot they may be at risk of dehydration. Signs of dehydration include:

• Panting
• Thirst
• Lethargy
• Dull coat
• Skin loses elasticity

If you think your cat is dehydrated take them to the vet immediately.

Frequent vomiting can also sometimes signify a more serious chronic disease such as diabetes, kidney or liver disease, pancreatitis or inflammatory bowel disease. If your cat is vomiting a few times a week, take your cat to the vet so tests can be run.

When to take your cat to the vet

• If vomiting is continuous
• If there are worms or objects in the vomit
• If vomiting occurs every few hours for eight hours or more
• If there is blood present – digested blood resembles dark coffee granules
• If your cat has been near poisonous substances
• If your cat appears depressed, lethargic or unwell, especially coupled with other symptoms like weight loss, diarrhoea or constipation.

Generally, if your cat vomits once or twice and appears happy and healthy then you have nothing to worry about, but keep a close eye on any accompanying symptoms or anything unusual appearing in your feline's vomit.