Vomiting is a common issue in cats and can range from harmless to serious. While an occasional hairball may not be cause for alarm, frequent or sudden vomiting in cats can signal an underlying health problem. 

In this article, we’ll help you understand: 

• When vomiting in cats is normal 

• What signs indicate a potential emergency 

• When to contact us 

Why Do Cats Vomit? 

Vomiting in cats can have a variety of causes, including: 

• Hairballs: Common in long-haired cats or heavy groomers 

• Dietary indiscretion: Eating something they shouldn’t, or food too quickly 

• Food intolerance or allergies 

• Infections (viral, bacterial, or parasitic) 

• Toxins or poisons 

• Chronic illnesses like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or IBD 

• Obstructions in the digestive tract 

The key is determining whether it’s an isolated incident or part of a pattern 

When Is Cat Vomiting Considered Normal? 

Occasional vomiting, especially related to hairballs or eating too fast, is usually not a cause for concern. Your cat may vomit: 

• A hairball every few weeks 

• After eating too quickly and bringing up undigested food 

• Occasionally due to a minor stomach upset 

If your cat is active, eating, drinking, and behaving normally, and the vomiting doesn’t persist, it may not require urgent attention. 

When Should I Be Concerned About My Cat Vomiting? 

Contact us if you notice any of the following red flags: 

• Vomiting more than once in 24 hours 

• Chronic vomiting (more than once a week) 

• Blood in the vomit (red or coffee ground appearance) 

• Vomiting along with diarrhoea, lethargy, or weight loss 

• Not eating or drinking 

• Signs of pain or vocalising 

• Vomiting foreign objects or string 

• Swollen or hard abdomen 

Even if your cat seems okay, persistent vomiting may indicate a serious condition like kidney disease, diabetes, or intestinal blockage. 

What Will We Do? 

When you bring your cat to us, we may: 

• Perform a physical exam and ask about your cat’s history 

• Recommend blood tests and urinalysis 

• Take x-rays or an ultrasound to check for obstructions  

• Suggest dietary changes or prescribe medication depending on the diagnosis 

Early intervention often leads to better outcomes, especially for chronic conditions. 

What Can I Do at Home? 

• Monitor frequency: Keep a log of when and how often your cat vomits. 

• Watch for other symptoms: Track appetite, litter box use, and behaviour. 

• Avoid abrupt food changes: Introduce new foods gradually. 

• Use slow-feeder bowls: Helps with cats that eat too quickly. 

• Groom regularly: Reduces hairballs, especially in long-haired breeds. 

But remember—don’t try home treatments without speaking to us, especially if symptoms persist. 

When in Doubt, Call Us 

At Oathall, we understand how worrying it can be when your cat vomits. Our experienced team can help you determine whether it’s a simple issue—or something that needs prompt care. 

Call us today at 01444 440224 if your cat has vomited and you’re unsure what to do next.