Vomiting in cats can occur for a variety of reasons, some of them dangerous and others not. As a cat owner, it's essential to know the difference. If your kitty is having serious health problems, they should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. The following guide provides a brief overview of vomiting in cats and when it’s a cause for concern.

Why Do Cats Vomit?

Hairballs are one frequent cause of indigestion in cats. In general, this isn't cause for concern—although it may take a toll on your carpets. More frequent brushing can help remove excess hair before your cat licks it away while self-cleaning.

Eating too fast can also cause an upset stomach. This occurs when the stomach lining expands rapidly, signaling a regurgitation reflex in the brain. Sometimes the solution to speed-eating is as simple as moving the cat’s food bowl to a quieter, more secluded space—cats eat quickly if they sense food competition.

When Should Your Cat See the Veterinarian?

Assess the appearance of your cat’s vomit to see if medical attention is needed. If speed-eating is to blame, the vomit may still show chunks of food because it hasn't yet had time to be broken down by stomach enzymes. If a hairball is the cause, you will be able to see this when the cat regurgitates it.

Some causes of vomiting warrant a prompt visit to the vet. These include esophageal problems, digestive tract obstruction due to the ingestion of a foreign body, ingestion of toxic substances, or dehydration. These conditions all require urgent care from a veterinarian. 

It’s not always possible to discern what's causing your pet's vomiting. As a basic rule of thumb, if your cat can't keep food down or has thrown up more than three times, take them to the veterinarian. Also, always bring the cat in if there is evidence of blood in the vomit.

PetPlex Animal Hospital serves pet owners throughout Buckeye Lake, OH, with comprehensive veterinary care. Their friendly veterinarians will treat your pet with compassion, ensuring they are at ease. A full-service animal care facility, they also offer boarding and grooming in addition to pet healthcare. Emergency services are available throughout Licking County. Find out more about their urgent care online. For questions, call (740) 929-3300.