
Most cat owners are familiar with finding their cat's vomit around the house. While vomiting in cats is frequent and easy to ignore, veterinarians caution against dismissing it. Though typically harmless, frequent vomiting could be a sign of an underlying health issue that requires attention.
To determine if your cat's vomiting is something to worry about, watch for certain signs. As reported by The Spruce Pets, eating too quickly is a common cause of vomiting in cats, and it is generally harmless. If your cat throws up undigested food shortly after eating, this is likely the cause. You can prevent this by serving smaller meals or adding an obstacle like a medium-sized ball to their food bowl that they need to eat around. If the vomiting continues, there might be another issue at play.
Hairballs are another common cause of your cat's vomiting. While they may seem like a minor annoyance to you, hairballs can pose serious risks for your cat. Cats cough up the hair they can't digest, and if they don’t, it may lead to dangerous blockages in their intestines. Regular brushing can help reduce the amount of fur your cat ingests, keeping hairballs at bay.
These are some of the less worrying causes for your cat's vomiting. However, it can also be a sign of more serious health issues like feline inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or chronic kidney disease. It's also possible that your cat consumed something harmful.
If there's no clear reason for your cat's vomiting, it's best to consult your veterinarian. Vomiting one to three times a month is generally normal, but frequent vomiting in a short span may require medical attention. When observing your cat, keep an eye out for other symptoms as well: Cats with additional signs like diarrhea or loss of appetite alongside vomiting should be promptly taken to the vet.
