Cats are extremely curious, snoopy creatures.
They tend to put anything and everything they find edible into their mouths.
This gives rise to a plethora of issues, the most prominent being regurgitation.
Numerous causes, yet it is that single unsuspecting reason which can give rise to something lethal.
Hence, it is of utmost importance that the root cause be discovered and appropriate steps be taken.
The article below enlists a number of probable reasons why cats throw up and steps to reduce the probability of occurrence such incidences.
1. Hairballs
Cats, especially those with long fur, tend to groom themselves regularly, ingesting hair in the process. Hairballs are a common cause of vomiting in cats, as they are unable to digest the hair.
This results in the cat regurgitating the hairball, which can cause them to vomit. To reduce hairballs, consider regular grooming to help remove excess fur.
Special cat food formulas are available that help to break down hairballs or facilitate their passage through the digestive system. You can also provide your cat with treats designed to aid in hairball control.
2. Eating Too Quickly
Some cats, particularly those with a ravenous appetite, eat too quickly, which can cause them to vomit shortly after finishing their meal. This is known as “scarf and barf.” When a cat eats too quickly, they may swallow air along with their food, leading to vomiting.
To prevent this, try feeding your cat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. You can also use special slow-feeder bowls or puzzle feeders that make it harder for them to gobble down their food too quickly.
Additionally, making sure your cat has a calm eating environment can help reduce this behavior.
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3. Food Sensitivities or Allergies
Food sensitivities or allergies can cause vomiting in cats. Certain ingredients, like chicken, beef, dairy, or grains, can trigger an immune response or digestive upset. Vomiting is often accompanied by diarrhea, poor coat condition, or excessive licking.
If you suspect a food sensitivity, consider switching to a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet. Gradually introduce new foods and monitor for any signs of improvement or worsening symptoms.
Consulting with a veterinarian for an allergy test or food elimination trial may also help identify the trigger.
4. Ingestion of Toxic Substances
Cats are curious creatures, and sometimes they ingest things that are harmful, leading to vomiting. Toxic substances can include plants like lilies, certain human foods (such as chocolate or onions), or chemicals like antifreeze.
Even household cleaners can cause vomiting if ingested. To prevent your cat from ingesting toxic substances, ensure that harmful items are out of reach. Keep toxic plants, foods, and chemicals securely stored away.
If you suspect your cat has ingested something toxic, seek immediate veterinary attention.
5. Gastrointestinal Issues (GI Tract Problems)
Gastrointestinal issues such as gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or ulcers can cause vomiting in cats. These conditions irritate the stomach and intestines, leading to nausea and vomiting.
Cats with GI issues may also exhibit changes in appetite, weight loss, and diarrhea. If your cat vomits regularly and shows other signs of gastrointestinal discomfort, a visit to the vet is essential.
Your vet may recommend diagnostic tests such as blood work, ultrasound, or endoscopy to determine the underlying cause. Treatment can involve medication, dietary changes, and sometimes long-term management with special diets.
6. Parasites (Worms and Protozoa)
Intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, or protozoa like Giardia can cause vomiting in cats. In addition to vomiting, affected cats may experience diarrhea, weight loss, lethargy, and a decrease in appetite.
Regular deworming is essential for preventing parasitic infections in cats, especially for outdoor cats or those with access to the outdoors.
Your vet can recommend an appropriate deworming schedule. If parasites are detected, your vet will provide medication to eliminate them.
7. Stress or Anxiety
Stress and anxiety can cause physical symptoms in cats, including vomiting. Changes in environment, routine, or the introduction of new pets can cause stress-induced vomiting.
Cats are sensitive to changes, and even a minor shift in their routine can lead to gastrointestinal upset. If stress is the cause, try to create a calm and predictable environment for your cat. Use pheromone diffusers, like Feliway, to help reduce stress.
Gradually introducing new changes and giving your cat a safe space to retreat to can also alleviate anxiety.
8. Motion Sickness
Some cats experience motion sickness when traveling in a car. The movement can upset their stomach, leading to vomiting. This is more common in cats that are not accustomed to car travel or in kittens.
If your cat experiences motion sickness, try taking shorter trips to help them acclimate to car rides. Some cats benefit from anti-nausea medications prescribed by the vet.
Avoid feeding your cat for a few hours before traveling to reduce the likelihood of vomiting.
9. Kidney Disease or Liver Problems
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and liver problems can cause vomiting in cats. Both conditions lead to toxin buildup in the body, which can trigger nausea and vomiting.
These conditions are often accompanied by symptoms such as weight loss, increased thirst, and lethargy. Kidney and liver problems require veterinary intervention.
Your vet will perform tests, including blood work and urine analysis, to diagnose the issue. Treatment may include prescription medications, special diets, and hydration therapy to support kidney or liver function.
10. Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can lead to vomiting, along with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever. This condition can be caused by obesity, a high-fat diet, or trauma.
If pancreatitis is suspected, your vet will perform blood tests and imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment typically involves hospitalization, IV fluids, and a special low-fat diet.
Once stabilized, your cat may be switched to a long-term prescription diet to prevent recurrence.
11. Tumors or Cancer
In some cases, vomiting can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a tumor or cancer. Tumors in the gastrointestinal tract, liver, or pancreas can lead to vomiting as well as other symptoms like weight loss, lethargy, and changes in appetite.
Early detection is crucial for treating cancer in cats. If you suspect that a tumor is the cause of vomiting, your vet will perform imaging tests, such as ultrasound or X-rays, to identify the tumor.
Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, or palliative care, depending on the type and stage of cancer.
Foods to Avoid Giving Cats to Prevent Vomiting
Certain foods can irritate your cat’s stomach and lead to vomiting. To keep your cat’s digestive system healthy, avoid giving them the following:
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Dairy: Many cats are lactose intolerant, and consuming dairy can lead to stomach upset and vomiting.
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Onions and Garlic: Both onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage your cat’s red blood cells, leading to vomiting and other health issues.
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Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance toxic to cats that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and more serious symptoms.
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Fatty Foods: Fatty foods, such as rich meats or fried foods, can irritate the stomach and lead to pancreatitis or vomiting.
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Raw Eggs or Fish: Raw eggs and fish can cause foodborne illnesses in cats and may lead to vomiting due to bacterial contamination.
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Caffeine: Caffeine is toxic to cats and can lead to vomiting, hyperactivity, and even seizures.
Always feed your cat a balanced, species-appropriate diet to help maintain their health. If you’re ever uncertain about what’s safe, consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your cat’s diet.
Once, you have a general idea of what causes the sickness in your pet, you’ll be more cautious.
Meanwhile, it is always wise to have a vet a call away for extreme situations.
Hope you find this article helpful!!
