Understanding Cat Vomiting

For cat owners, cats vomiting because of hairballs can be quite a common occurrence, but when you don’t know the root of the cause, it can be alarming. Understanding the reasons why cats vomit as well as other symptoms to look out for can not only help put your mind at ease but also home remedies for cat vomiting. We’ll be exploring some of the causes why your cat might vomit, related symptoms, treatments, and when you should visit your vet.

Why Do Cats Vomit?

If your cat is vomiting, it can occur from several causes, some of which are minor and easily treatable, whereas others require urgent veterinary attention. One of the most common reasons is ingesting things that they shouldn’t. Cats are curious creatures, and they are known to ingest things they shouldn't, whether it’s houseplants, insects, or spoiled food. Diet is often the root of cat vomiting, whether it’s food intolerance or allergies, dietary changes, or even eating too quickly. A change in their usual diet can also be the answer to ‘why do cats vomit?’ as their digestive system can be disrupted, and especially if a new food is introduced, it may cause issues. Through raw food, hunting and soil - as well as other causes - cats can often get worms or roundworms that irritate the gut and cause vomiting.

Hairballs are often a culprit as the fur can irritate a cat's digestive system. This is a natural consequence of rigorous grooming habits, however, it is something to keep an eye on if it’s a recurring issue. Some causes of vomiting are worse than others, some of which require medical attention from a veterinarian. Regular vomiting in cats is NOT normal. Foreign objects like string, small toys, or bones can get lodged in the digestive tract, and in more severe instances, if vomiting doesn’t resolve the issue, surgery may be required. Illness or disease can also cause vomiting, so if you can’t identify the cause, it’s always best to get a professional opinion. Viral and bacterial infections can cause nausea and vomiting as part of a broader illness, and with more severe issues such as liver or kidney disease, vomiting can present as a symptom. 

Finally, the accidental ingestion of toxic substances like household cleaners, antifreeze, or medication can cause severe vomiting and require immediate veterinary attention, so it’s important to remain attentive.

Symptoms To Watch Out

Vomiting itself is a symptom, however, as there are many causes of vomiting, being observant could mean helping a veterinarian to come to a diagnosis sooner, which can be especially important in more extreme circumstances. Occasional vomiting might not be a major concern, but if your cat throws up repeatedly or not just in an isolated instance, it is best to seek veterinary help. From the time you notice your cat vomiting, identifying other symptoms like loss of appetite, lethargy or weakness, or diarrhoea can help to pinpoint the cause. Although all instances are worth consulting with your local vet, if there is blood in the vomit, it can indicate a more serious issue like ulcers or internal bleeding. In such an event, seeking emergency help is advised.

Treatments & Home Remedies For Cat Vomiting

If your cat throws up in an isolated instance, it can be treated just as humans might treat the issue. Home remedies for cat vomiting start by allowing your cat's stomach to settle. If the vomiting appears to just be a one-off occurrence, when you reintroduce food, start with small, bland meals like boiled chicken. Should your cat stop eating OR start vomiting again, it would be best to then consult with your veterinarian.  Cats that throw up regularly IS NOT NORMAL, if there are always hairballs associated with the vomit, this can be treated by increased brushing, as this can prevent the clumping of hair in your cat’s digestive tract. 

It’s worth noting that remedies are only suitable for mild or occasional vomiting, so if you suspect a more serious cause, you should always seek professional veterinary help. If your cat has frequent or persistent vomiting that occurs more than once in 24 hours, blood in the vomit, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, abdominal pain or difficulty breathing, you should visit your vet. During the vet visit, your veterinarian will perform a physical examination to understand the underlying cause, and this might include x-rays or blood work to diagnose the underlying cause. Once a cause is established, treatment might involve medication, dietary changes, or surgery in severe cases such as blockages or organ disease. 

If your cat is vomiting, it can be difficult not knowing how to help. At Ripponlea, we understand your love for your cat, which is why we offer the very best standard of care and treatment to ensure your cat remains healthy for many years to come.

Schedule an appointment with us now to ensure the best quality of life for your pet!

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