Common Causes of Cat Vomiting: What You Need to Know
1. Hair Regurgitation
Cats often spend their days sleeping or grooming themselves. During the grooming process, they may inadvertently ingest a significant amount of fur by licking. Cats with poor digestion or insufficient fiber intake may resort to vomiting as a means to expel the hair from their systems.
Rest assured, if a cat vomits and then appears to be in good spirits, there's no need for undue worry. You can help by regularly brushing your cat's fur, and offering fresh cat grass or natural hairball remedies to aid in the elimination of fur.
2. Eating Too Fast
Consuming food too rapidly can also trigger vomiting in cats, often resulting in the undigested food being regurgitated. For cats that are particularly greedy, it's advisable to feed them in smaller, more frequent portions or use a sloweating bowl to reduce their eating speed.
3. Ingesting Foreign Objects
Cats may sometimes chew on household items like plastic bags, yarn, tissues, or carpet. When they swallow these items and their digestive systems can't process them, vomiting becomes a way to expel the foreign objects. Be sure to keep dangerous items out of reach to prevent the need for surgery to remove them.
4. Gastrointestinal Disorders
Some cats are naturally prone to gastrointestinal issues, making them more susceptible to vomiting and diarrhea than others. It's best to feed them on a schedule with consistent portions to develop healthy eating habits and avoid overburdening their digestive systems.
5. Stress
Just like humans, cats and dogs can experience stress. Some cats may vomit due to excessive stress, which can be caused by changes in their environment, family dynamics, or the arrival of strangers. It's crucial to observe and care for your cat to help alleviate stress and reduce the likelihood of vomiting.
Beyond these common causes, vomiting in cats could also be a symptom of illness. If you notice signs of poor spirits, decreased appetite, or persistent vomiting, it's important to consult a veterinarian promptly.