Why Is My Cat Vomiting?

Seeing your cat vomit can be upsetting and often leaves pet owners asking why it’s happening. Vomiting in cats is usually caused by stomach upset, hairballs, diet changes, or eating too quickly, but it can also signal allergies or underlying illness. Paying attention to changes in your cat’s behavior and vomiting patterns can help you determine when veterinary care is needed.

At Parkway Veterinary Emergency Clinic, we are here to help answer your questions and provide care when vomiting becomes a concern. While some cats vomit occasionally and remain otherwise healthy, frequent or ongoing vomiting may indicate a more serious issue. Contact us at (863) 665-3199 if you believe your cat’s vomiting requires emergency attention. Below are the most common reasons cats vomit and what you can do to help prevent it.

What Can Cause a Cat to Vomit?

Cats may vomit for many reasons. An isolated episode may not be concerning, but repeated vomiting should always be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Hairballs

Hairballs are the most common cause of vomiting in cats, especially long-haired cats. Excessive grooming leads to hair accumulation in the stomach, and vomiting is the body’s natural way of expelling it.

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis refers to stomach upset and may occur due to:

• Eating food that upsets the stomach

• Exposure to toxins

• Side effects from medications

Gastroenteritis is often mild, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Foreign Bodies

Cats may ingest foreign materials from toys, such as strings or feathers. These objects can cause intestinal blockage and trigger vomiting. If you suspect your cat swallowed something inappropriate, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

Allergies

Cats with allergies may vomit in response to:

• Fleas

• Certain foods

• Household allergens

• Perfumes

Food allergies occur when a cat’s immune system reacts to specific ingredients and may also cause diarrhea, itchy skin, or recurring ear infections.

Certain Illnesses

Systemic illnesses can cause vomiting in cats. Conditions that commonly lead to vomiting include:

• Kidney disease

• Pancreatitis

• Hyperthyroidism

Frequent vomiting should always be evaluated to rule out these conditions.

Parasites

Vomiting caused by parasites is more common in kittens, but adult cats can also be affected. In rare cases, worms may be visible in vomit. With proper treatment, parasites can usually be eliminated.

New Food

Sudden food changes can cause nausea and vomiting. Switching brands or moving from dry food to wet food may upset your cat’s stomach, especially if the change happens too quickly.

Eating Too Fast

Cats that eat too quickly may vomit shortly after meals. Using slow-feeding bowls, feeding toys, or gently packing food down can help slow eating and reduce vomiting.

How Can I Help Prevent My Cat from Vomiting?

Preventing vomiting depends on identifying the cause. Many cats vomit due to hairballs, food sensitivities, or environmental factors.

Adjust Your Cat’s Diet

If vomiting is food-related, switching to a higher-quality, easily digestible diet may help. Avoid excessive treats and monitor how your cat responds to dietary changes.

Supervise Playtime

Remove loose strings, feathers, or small toy parts that could be swallowed. Houseplants can also pose a risk and should be kept out of reach or removed entirely.

Talk to Your Veterinarian About Diet Options

Cats with food allergies or inflammatory bowel disease may benefit from prescription diets designed for sensitive stomachs. Your veterinarian can help determine if a special diet is appropriate.

Use an Over-the-Counter Hairball Remedy

Hairball remedies lubricate the digestive tract, helping hair pass through naturally instead of being vomited. Ask your veterinarian whether a hairball remedy is right for your cat.

Why Is My Cat Vomiting Yellow Liquid and Not Eating?

If your cat is vomiting yellow liquid and refusing food, it is often a sign of stomach irritation or an empty stomach. The yellow liquid is typically bile, which can be vomited when a cat hasn’t eaten for a period of time or when the stomach is upset. This may happen alongside other common causes of vomiting, such as hairballs, diet changes, eating too fast, or gastrointestinal upset.

While occasional bile vomiting may resolve on its own, vomiting combined with a loss of appetite is more concerning. Cats that stop eating and continue vomiting may be experiencing a more serious underlying issue and should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Persistent vomiting and refusal to eat can quickly lead to dehydration and further complications.

When Should I Call the Vet?

Occasional vomiting, such as an infrequent hairball or mild stomach upset, is common in cats. However, persistent vomiting may indicate a more serious condition.

You should contact a veterinarian if your cat:

• Vomits frequently

• Appears lethargic or uncomfortable

• Stops eating

• Shows no obvious cause for vomiting

At Parkway Veterinary Emergency Clinic, we are here to help answer your questions and provide care when vomiting becomes a concern. Contact us at (863) 665-3199 if you believe your cat’s vomiting may be more serious or requires emergency attention.