There is always at least a little bit of concern for your cat when they vomit, as most pet parents know that is never a pleasant experience. However, unlike humans, cats sometimes vomit for reasons other than illness.

Cats are true carnivores, (Obligate Carnivores), meaning that they only need meat and animal tissue to survive. Plants, grass, and other non-animal byproducts, for the most part, are not toxic to cats but they might make your cat vomit; although that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Considering their strict dietary needs, sometimes it is necessary for cats to vomit, even when they are not ill.

Here is the lowdown on vomiting in cats and when you should worry about your furry friend:

Why Do Cats Vomit?

Cats vomit for many different reasons. Those reasons can range from hairballs to the indication of a serious issue. So here are some of the most common reasons your cat vomits:

Hairball:

Cats groom themselves often. The way they do that is by licking themselves. However, their aptitude for cleanliness makes them more susceptible to swallowing hair, which is hard for the body to digest. So, all the hair that your cat’s body can’t digest forms a hairball in their stomach. When that hairball irritates their stomach enough, they vomit it back up.

Over-Eating:

While many people think that cats are independent eaters, they will gorge themselves. Although, when cats eat too much too fast, their stomach wall expands too quickly, their brain gives the order to regurgitate their food. When this happens, it isn’t vomiting, as the food is not digested. Rather, fluid and food are brought up by the esophagus. Regurgitated food is still fully-formed, for the most part, and likely smells fermented. It’s still nasty but as long as it is just from overeating and not happening all the time, it isn’t a real cause for concern.

Eating the Wrong Thing:

Considering a cat’s strict dietary habits, vomiting is sometimes a protective measure. In the wild, cats are hunters and when they hunt, they will eat portions of their kills that are not relevant or indigestible, such as bone and fur. The cat’s recourse to purge their body of anything unwanted or potentially dangerous in their system is to throw up.

The house cat usually doesn’t have the issue of eating bones or fur but they might eat something like string, toilet paper, plants, or something else that they shouldn’t. If this happens, your cat will throw up to help cleanse their system.

Illness:

While cat vomiting is not always cause for concern, your cat will vomit if they are ill. Here are some of the different illnesses or conditions that cause cats to throw up:

  • Diabetes
  • Urinary Tract Infection
  • Dehydration
  • Allergies
  • Constipation
  • Cancer
  • Toxins
  • Anorexia

Unfortunately, there is a long list of illnesses or health-risk conditions that could cause your cat to vomit. Since cats do not usually tell their pet parents when they don’t feel well, because they don’t want to show weakness, vomiting could be the first (and only) symptom of illness your cat displays. So, you need to make sure you watch your cat carefully to pick up on any oddities in their behavior, vomit, or bathroom business.

When Should You Worry About Your Cat Vomiting?

Cleaning up cat vomit (or regurgitation) is a gross inconvenience in everyone’s day. Pet parent or cat, throwing up is never pleasant for anyone involved. However, there are certain signs that pet parents need to be aware of to know when your cat is vomiting because they ate toilet paper again, or they are having a real problem.

Blood in the Vomit:

Vomit is gross enough but when blood gets involved, that is just too much. Unfortunately, this involves you having to look at the vomit but if blood is present it is usually pretty obvious. This is called Hematemesis and it is an indication of serious issues. If Hematemesis occurs, go to your vet immediately.

Thick Yellow Bile:

Foamy yellow bile is usually consistent with a hairball. However, if your cat is throwing up thick, yellow bile, it is an indication of an infection or serious kidney problem. Either way, you need to seek medical attention for your cat immediately if this happens.

Dehydration:

If a cat vomits between one and three times per month, experts consider this normal and if your cat is not in any discomfort, there is likely no issue. However, excessive vomiting can quickly lead to dehydration, which can quickly become a serious issue for your cat. If your cat vomits more than twice in two days, there is a serious threat of dehydration.

What Should You Do When Your Cat is Vomiting from Illness?

There is nothing pleasant about this discussion. However, if you think that your cat is vomiting excessively or has any of the other signs mentioned above, call your vet immediately. When you call them, though, be prepared to talk about these different attributes to help your vet determine the cause as quickly as possible:

Vomit Appearance:

Having to look at the vomit is bad enough, especially when it is causing concern but having to describe it to anyone else is even worse. Unfortunately, this is exactly what you need to do if you feel like your cat is suffering and needs medical attention due to their vomiting.

Additionally, be prepared to collect a sample of the vomit, as your vet might want to inspect it.

Other Symptoms:

If your cat seems to be losing weight, is lethargic, or otherwise is not eating, you are going to want to tell your vet. Plus, if your cat has any bathroom-related inconsistencies, this is important for your vet to know too.

Changes in Your Cat’s Surroundings:

If your cat has had any recent changes in their surroundings or you suspect your cat ate something they shouldn’t have, tell your vet. Sometimes stress and depression can cause a cat to vomit, especially if they are prone to Feline Anorexia.

To close, there are a multitude of reasons why a cat vomits. Some of those reasons are cause for concern but some of those reasons are a normal response for cat’s bodies to flush their system. However, always consult a veterinarian if you feel like your cat is vomiting more than they should be, as there could be an underlying issue. After all, you know your furbaby best!