Why Is My Cat Vomiting and What Does It Mean?

If you’re a cat owner, chances are you’ve heard that distinctive sound, the one that makes you sprint across the house, hoping to move your rug out of the danger zone in time.

While the occasional hairball is pretty normal, frequent vomiting could be your cat’s way of telling you something isn’t quite right. So, let’s break it down: what’s in the vomit, what’s causing it, and when should you worry?

We’d tell you to grab a snack and settle in to learn, but this might not be the most appealing thing to read while eating!

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Why is My Cat Vomiting

(And Should I Be Worried?)

Some vomiting is just a normal part of cat life, but frequent or unexplained vomiting can be a sign of something serious. Here are some common culprits:

Stress & Anxiety

Yes, cats get stressed too! A change in routine, a new pet, or even a dirty litter box can lead to an upset stomach. If your cat is vomiting alongside other stress signals (like hiding, over-grooming, or aggression), it might be time to evaluate their environment. We’d also recommend giving our Stress & Anxiety probiotic a try, for cats, just use the small dog dosage = ½ Teaspoon.

‍Diet Choices

Cats thrive on a species-appropriate raw diet, but switching foods too quickly or feeding a highly processed diet can trigger digestive upset. If your cat is throwing up regularly, consider upgrading their diet.

Raw feeding can be a game-changer! A species-appropriate raw diet supports better digestion, may reduce hairballs, and provides the natural nutrients cats need, without unnecessary fillers that could upset their stomach. Check out more info on raw feeding for cats here.

Food Issues

Some cats act like every meal is their last. This can lead to regurgitation, where soon after eating, food comes up undigested. Try using a slow feeder or spreading meals out into smaller portions.

Health Problems

Vomiting can be a symptom of anything from hairballs to kidney disease, infections, or even more serious conditions.

A hairball every now and then is normal, but frequent hairballs could mean your cat needs more fibre, hydration, or digestive support. A fresh, raw diet can help reduce hairball formation! Feeding your cat a raw diet can give their fur a serious glow-up, making it softer, shinier, and way easier to manage. That means less loose hair getting swallowed during grooming sessions.

If vomiting is chronic, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms (lethargy, weight loss, diarrhoea), it could indicate a health problem such as: food allergies, parasites, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), liver or kidney disease or pancreatitis.

In these cases, a vet visit is a must.

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Types of Cat Vomit and What it Means

Not all cat vomit is created equal! The colour, consistency, and contents can give you clues about what’s going on with your cat.

This guide to your cat's vomit will provide plenty of insight into their health and digestive system. From occasional grass munching to potential health concerns, understanding your cat's vomit can help you take the right steps to keep them feeling their best. Continue reading to learn what the colour, consistency, and contents of your cat’s vomit mean and how to help improve their digestive health.

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This guide to your cat's vomit will provide plenty of insight into their health and digestive system. Continue reading to learn what the colour, consistency, and contents of your cat’s vomit mean and how to help improve their digestive health.

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White, Clear, Mucous or Foamy Vomit

What it means: Likely just stomach acid or bile, often from an empty stomach. Could be related to stomach irritation or regurgitation rather than true vomiting.
Should you worry? Not usually. If your cat is otherwise acting normal, try offering smaller, more frequent meals.

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Yellow or Green Vomit

What it means: Bile from an empty stomach or possible irritation. If your cat hasn’t eaten for a while, their stomach may be a little too acidic.
Should you worry? If it happens occasionally, no big deal. But frequent bile vomit could mean digestive issues or even liver problems.

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Brown or Dark Vomit

What it means: This could be partially digested food, or it could indicate bleeding in the digestive tract or digested blood, possibly from an ulcer or internal issue.
Should you worry? This warrants a vet visit, just to be safe.

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Red, Pink or Bloody Vomit

What it means: Fresh blood in vomit isn’t a good sign. It could be from irritation, ulcers, or even internal bleeding.
Should you worry? Definitely. Get to the vet ASAP.

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Green Vomit

What it means: Possibly bile or even something your cat has eaten. Some cats eat grass to help with digestion, but if it happens a lot, it could be a sign of stomach upset.
Should you worry? Monitor your cat for any other signs and symptoms that are unusual for them. If you notice frequent green vomit, head to the vet for a check-up.

Chunky Food Vomit

What it means: Your cat might be eating too fast or not chewing properly. This is common with dry food, which expands in the stomach. If it happens right after eating, your cat may be eating too fast or reacting to their diet
Should you worry? Not unless it happens regularly. Try slowing down mealtime with a puzzle feeder or switching to a raw diet, which encourages natural chewing.

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Hairball Vomit

What it means: Totally normal! Cats groom themselves constantly, and swallowed fur sometimes needs an exit strategy.‍

Should you worry? Not really, but frequent hairballs might indicate excessive grooming, allergies, or digestive issues. A raw diet helps reduce hairballs by improving gut health!

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Worms in Vomit

What it means: Yep, it’s gross, but if you see spaghetti-like strands, your cat probably has worms.‍

Should you worry? Yes! Your cat needs deworming medication from a vet.

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When to See the Vet‍

Not sure if your cat’s vomiting is serious? Here are other indicators you need to visit the vet: ‍

• Vomiting multiple times a day
• Blood in vomit
• Weight loss or loss of appetite
• Lethargy or dehydration
• Vomiting alongside diarrhea

If in doubt, always check with your vet!

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Tips for Preventing Vomit

Now that we’ve covered the gross stuff, here’s how to keep your cat’s stomach settled:

Feed a Raw Diet‍

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed for meat, not processed kibble. A balanced raw diet supports digestion, reduces vomiting, and can even prevent hairballs.

Slow Down Fast Eaters

Use puzzle feeders, slow-feed bowls, or spread food out on a plate to prevent inhaling meals.

Keep Stress Low‍

Cats love routine! Changes in their environment can upset their stomachs, so keep things as predictable as possible.

Hydration is Key‍

Wet food or raw diets naturally provide hydration, reducing the risk of vomiting from dehydration or kidney issues.

Regular Vet Checkups‍

If vomiting is frequent or accompanied by lethargy, weight loss, or other concerning symptoms, see your vet.

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Vomit Happens

(Unfortunately)! ‍

Cat vomit is never fun, but it’s a natural part of being a cat purr-ent. The key is to understand what’s normal and what is concerning. Occasional vomiting might not be a big deal, but frequent or abnormal vomiting should always be checked out.

Want to reduce your cat’s chances of vomiting altogether? Consider switching to a raw diet, which supports healthy digestion and overall well-being. Plus, your cat will thank you for the delicious, tasty meals!

Now, go forth and be the best cat vomit detective you can be, your feline overlord is counting on you.

The information provided in this article is not meant to replace veterinary advice. Please chat to your vet if you're concerned about your pet's health.  

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