Cats Vomiting: Causes & What to Do, in 55 Characters

What Does Cat Vomit Look Like?

1. Hairballs

Cats, often referred to as the "furry extraterrestrials" who groom themselves with remarkable efficiency, experience hairballs as a common occurrence. It's quite easy to identify this: they usually follow the consumption of cat grass, and the vomit is filled with a mass of hairballs. Afterward, the cat often appears rejuvenated and might even be eager for another meal of kibble!

2. Gastric Juice

The vomit is a clear liquid with white bubbles, indicating that the cat has been fasting for an extended period. The solution? Simply "more meals, less at each sitting"!

3. Food

Cat vomit can consist of two different states of food, let's take cat kibble as an example:

Welldefined pieces of kibble are often seen when a greedy cat overeats, as their delicate stomachs can't handle too much. Partially digested, mushy kibble is more common during a dietary transition period!

The former requires a regular feeding schedule—smaller meals more frequently, and at specific times. If the latter occurs during a transition, it might be helpful to extend the transition period or try giving probiotics to observe the response. If the cat continues to vomit and seems disoriented, it's advisable not to continue feeding that particular kibble!

4. Blood in Vomit

The vomit contains red blood, which usually signifies that the stomach lining has been scratched by foreign objects, such as bones, chicken bones, or sharp plastic fragments. Additionally, conditions like stomach tumors, severe gastritis, or gastrointestinal ulcers can also cause bleeding in the stomach. This is a serious matter, and it's crucial for pet owners to take it seriously~

When Should You Take Your Cat to the Vet?

1. Vomiting with Diarrhea

2. Multiple episodes of vomiting

3. Frequent dry heaving

4. Vomiting with blood

5. Loss of appetite and listlessness after vomiting

After seeking medical attention, the vet will likely inquire about the vomit, the cat's mental state, and their appetite. It's helpful to photograph the vomit so the vet can quickly identify the cause of the problem!

Some say the biggest difference between new and experienced cat owners lies in how they handle "cat vomiting." Newcomers might be startled by online advice, as online diagnoses often start with cancer. However, seasoned pet parents can usually tell when their cat is about to regurgitate a hairball just by looking at them!