Why Does My Cat Vomit (or Throw Up) Often?
- Genna Revell
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Let’s be honest, the sound of a cat about to vomit is nature’s alarm clock. You could be fast asleep, and suddenly… hurk… hurk… it’s never on the tile, always on the carpet, and your cat looks at you like you caused it.
A random hairball or the odd “ate too fast” moment is usually harmless. But if it’s happening regularly, it’s time to do some detective work. Frequent vomiting is a message from your cat that something’s off.
Step 1: Decode the “Why”
Not all vomits are equal. Some are routine, others are red flags.
Common (and usually mild) causes:
Hairballs. Grooming pros swallow fur they can’t digest.
Eating too fast. Food races in, and right back out.
Sudden food changes. Cats like consistency — switch gradually.
Grass snacks. Some cats self-induce to clear the system.
Possible medical causes (time to call the vet):
Food allergies or sensitivities
Gastrointestinal inflammation (IBD)
Parasites or infections
Pancreatitis or liver disease
Kidney disease or hyperthyroidism
Intestinal blockage or foreign object
In rare cases, cancer
If your cat vomits more than once a week, or shows other symptoms like loss of appetite, lethargy, or weight loss, don’t guess, book a vet visit. Chronic vomiting is not “just a cat thing.”
Step 2: Start a “Puke Diary”
Write down what your cat eats, when they vomit, and what it looks like. (Sorry.)
Your vet can spot patterns:
Always right after meals?
Only dry food?
Early mornings?
Step 3: Check the Menu
Diet is a big piece of the puzzle.
Switch foods slowly. Mix new with old over a week.
Smaller, frequent meals. Helps cats who inhale dinner too quickly.
Try raising the bowl. Easier digestion, less swallowed air.
Choose quality food. Avoid fillers and strong artificial flavours.
Brush regularly. Less fur swallowed, fewer hairballs produced.
Ask your vet about a sensitive-stomach or hydrolysed-protein diet if they suspect food intolerance.
Step 4: Hydration and Habits
Cats are famously bad at drinking water, which can make tummy issues worse.
Keep fresh bowls in several places.
Try a water fountain, running water is more tempting.
Add water or broth (no onions or garlic) to wet food.
Keep toxic plants and chemicals far away; lilies, philodendrons, and even some cleaning sprays can cause vomiting or worse.
Step 6: Know When It’s Serious
Call your vet right away if your cat:
Vomits more than twice in 24 hours
Has blood in vomit or stool (bright red or coffee-ground black)
Stops eating or drinking
Shows weight loss, weakness
Hides under furniture
Has diarrhoea along with vomiting
Don’t wait it out. Tests like bloodwork or ultrasound can rule out serious conditions early.
Final Thoughts: From “Hurk” to Health
Every cat throws up occasionally, that’s life with a self-grooming acrobat. But frequent vomiting means something more.
