Cause of Cat Vomiting: Possible Reasons Explained

1. Hairball Syndrome

Typically, the symptoms of hairball syndrome in cats include vomiting once to three times a week, with the vomit appearing in stringy form, often accompanied by coarse fiber particles if the cat is fed cat grass. To minimize the amount of hair ingested by your feline friend daily, pet owners can help by brushing their cat more frequently. If possible, feeding a cat food fortified with probiotics can also aid in expelling hairballs or promote gut motility to help hair pass through with the stool.

2. Cat Anxiety

Cats can experience vomiting as a result of stress. Changes in their environment, such as the addition of a new family member, new furniture, home renovations, the presence of a stranger, or a move, can all cause stress and lead to vomiting. Spending more quality time with your cat can help reduce their sense of unease and anxiety.

3. Eating Too Fast

Many pet owners have witnessed their cats scarfing down food as if they haven't eaten in years, or rushing to consume "human" food that they fear might be taken away. As a result, the food isn't properly digested and comes back up shortly after eating. Preventive measures include feeding smaller, more frequent meals. If there are multiple treats, they should be eaten separately. Some owners find that placing food on a large plate is more effective than in a small bowl.

4. Food Allergies

For some cats with sensitive systems, certain ingredients in their food can act as allergens. Food allergies often occur when a cat is frequently denied access to certain foods. Common allergens include grains, chemical additives, food dyes, and preservatives. Allergic reactions can be mild, but symptoms may include vomiting several times a week, usually within two hours of eating. Allergies can also be accompanied by intermittent diarrhea, though the severity of the diarrhea may not correlate with the severity of vomiting. Identifying allergens can be challenging, so it's best to eliminate potential allergens from their diet and maintain a consistent feeding routine.

5. Gastric Ulcers

While gastric ulcers are rare in cats, they can occur and may present with subtle or intermittent vomiting. Diagnosis often requires Xrays or endoscopic examination. Medications that reduce stomach acid production and gut motility may be prescribed.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on cat vomiting, check out our article "What Causes Cat Vomiting and How to Treat It."