If you're a cat owner, you've probably asked yourself, "Why does my cat keep throwing up?" more times than you'd like. I know I have. My own cat, Mittens, went through a phase where she'd vomit almost every other day. It's frustrating and worrying, but you're not alone. Vomiting in cats is super common, and most of the time, it's nothing serious. But sometimes, it can be a sign of something worse. So, let's dive in and figure this out together.
First off, vomiting isn't always a bad thing. Cats puke for all sorts of reasons—maybe they ate too fast, or got into something they shouldn't have. But when it happens over and over, that's when you need to pay attention. I remember once Mittens threw up right after eating a bunch of grass from the garden. Turns out, cats do that to help themselves vomit and clear out hairballs. But if your cat is throwing up frequently, it could be a red flag.
Common Reasons Why Your Cat Might Be Vomiting
So, why does my cat keep throwing up? There are a bunch of possible causes. Some are no big deal, while others need a vet's attention. Let's break them down.
Hairballs: The Classic Culprit
Hairballs are probably the most common reason cats vomit. When cats groom themselves, they swallow loose fur. Usually, it passes through their system, but sometimes it clumps up in their stomach and comes back out as a hairball. If your cat is vomiting up hairballs now and then, it's normal. But if it's happening weekly or more, that could mean they're grooming too much due to stress or skin issues.
I hate cleaning up hairballs—they're gross and slimy. But hey, it's part of cat ownership. If your cat is long-haired, like a Persian, they might get hairballs more often. Brushing them regularly can help reduce it.
Dietary Issues: Eating Too Fast or Food Problems
Cats can be picky eaters, but they can also be little gluttons. If your cat eats too quickly, they might vomit right after meals. This is called regurgitation, and it's not really vomiting—it's more like undigested food coming back up. Using a slow-feeder bowl can help with this.
Food allergies or sensitivities are another big one. Some cats can't handle certain ingredients, like grains or specific proteins. If you recently changed their food, that might be why your cat keeps throwing up. Low-quality food with fillers can also cause upset stomachs.
| Cause | Symptoms | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Hairballs | Vomiting cylindrical fur balls, occasional coughing | Brush regularly, use hairball control food |
| Eating Too Fast | Vomiting undigested food shortly after eating | Try a slow-feeder bowl, smaller meals |
| Food Allergy | Vomiting, diarrhea, itchy skin | Switch to hypoallergenic food, consult vet |
More Serious Health Problems
Sometimes, vomiting can signal something worse. Things like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or even cancer can cause chronic vomiting. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is another common issue where the stomach lining gets irritated. If your cat is losing weight, acting lethargic, or vomiting blood, that's a major warning sign.
Don't ignore persistent vomiting. I made that mistake once with Mittens, and it turned out she had a mild kidney issue. Luckily, we caught it early.
When Should You Really Worry About Your Cat Throwing Up?
Okay, so when is vomiting a big deal? If your cat vomits once or twice but seems fine otherwise, it's probably okay to monitor them. But if they're vomiting repeatedly in a short time, or if you see other symptoms, it's time to act.
Look for things like lethargy, loss of appetite, diarrhea, or blood in the vomit. Dehydration is a huge risk—check if their gums are dry or if their skin doesn't snap back when you gently pinch it. If your cat is young or old, they're more vulnerable. Kittens can get dehydrated fast, and older cats might have underlying conditions.
Why does my cat keep throwing up if they're otherwise healthy? It could still be something like a foreign object stuck in their gut. Cats love to chew on strings or small toys, which can cause blockages. That's an emergency—vomiting along with abdominal pain means vet now.
What You Can Do at Home to Help Your Cat
If your cat is vomiting but doesn't seem too sick, there are home remedies you can try. First, give their stomach a break. Withhold food for 12-24 hours, but make sure they have access to water. After that, offer bland food like boiled chicken or plain rice in small amounts.
Hydration is key. Encourage them to drink water. You can even try offering ice chips or low-sodium chicken broth. I've found that using a pet water fountain helps because cats are attracted to moving water.
For hairballs, over-the-counter remedies like laxatives or special diets can help. But don't overdo it—always check with your vet first. Sometimes, adding a bit of pumpkin puree (not pie filling) to their food can aid digestion.
When to Take Your Cat to the Vet
So, when should you drag yourself to the vet? If your cat has been vomiting for over 24 hours, or if they're showing severe symptoms like weakness or blood, don't wait. Vets can run tests like blood work, X-rays, or ultrasounds to find the cause.
Treatment depends on what's wrong. It might be as simple as changing their diet or giving medication for nausea. For serious issues like blockages, surgery might be needed. The cost can vary—a basic visit might be $50-$100, but tests and treatment can add up to hundreds.
I know vet bills can be scary, but it's better than risking your cat's health. Some pet insurance plans cover vomiting-related issues, so look into that if you're worried.
Preventing Future Vomiting Episodes
Prevention is always better than cure. To reduce vomiting, feed your cat high-quality food that suits their age and health. Avoid sudden diet changes—introduce new food gradually over a week.
Keep your cat from eating too fast by using puzzle feeders or spreading meals out. Regular grooming helps with hairballs, especially for long-haired breeds. And please, keep small objects out of reach. Cats are curious, and ingestion can lead to big problems.
Stress can also cause vomiting. Cats hate change—moving houses, new pets, or even loud noises can upset their stomach. Provide a calm environment with hiding spots and familiar items.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Vomiting
Why does my cat keep throwing up after eating? This is often due to eating too fast or food intolerance. Try smaller, more frequent meals or a different brand.
Is it normal for cats to vomit occasionally? Yes, occasional vomiting (like once a month) can be normal, especially with hairballs. But frequent vomiting needs checking.
Can I give my cat human medication for vomiting? No, never give human drugs like Pepto-Bismol without vet advice. Some are toxic to cats.
If you're still wondering why does my cat keep throwing up, it might be time for a vet visit. Every cat is different, and what works for one might not for another.
In the end, understanding why your cat keeps throwing up involves observation and sometimes professional help. I hope this guide gives you some peace of mind. Remember, you're doing your best for your furry friend!