As a cat owner, you may be familiar with your furry friend occasionally coughing up a hairball.

But what about when your cat starts to vomit more frequently or for other reasons? This could be a sign of a bigger issue, and it’s important to know when to visit the vet.

What Causes Cats to Vomit?

Before we dive into when cat vomiting is a serious concern, it’s important to understand what causes vomiting in cats. Here are some common reasons why your cat may be vomiting:.

1. Hairballs

As mentioned, hairballs are a common cause of vomiting in cats. When your cat grooms themselves, they ingest hair that can accumulate in their stomach. This can cause an upset stomach and lead to vomiting.

While usually not a cause for concern, hairballs can be uncomfortable for your cat and may require a change in diet or increased grooming on your part.

2. Dietary Changes

If you’ve recently switched your cat’s food, they may have an upset stomach as they adjust. Additionally, cats can be picky eaters and may simply not like the flavor or texture of their food.

If you suspect this is the case, try gradually introducing a different type of food or switching to a different brand that may better suit your cat’s preferences.

3. Poisoning

Cats can be curious creatures and may ingest something toxic, such as a household cleaner or a plant that is poisonous to cats. If you suspect poisoning, it’s important to seek veterinary attention immediately.

4. Infection or Illness

Like humans, cats can get infections or illnesses that can cause vomiting. Some common illnesses that may cause vomiting include kidney disease, pancreatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

These conditions can be serious and may require immediate attention from a veterinarian.

When to Visit the Vet

As a general rule of thumb, if your cat is vomiting more than once a day or for several days in a row, it’s best to bring them to the vet.

Additionally, if your cat is displaying other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or diarrhea, this may be cause for concern.

Veterinarians may need to perform tests to determine the underlying cause of your cat’s vomiting. This may include blood work, X-rays, or an ultrasound.

Treatment options will depend on the diagnosis, and may range from medication to a change in diet.

Preventing Cat Vomiting

To help prevent cat vomiting, there are a few things you can do at home:.

1. Control Hairballs

If your cat is prone to hairballs, there are a few things you can do to help prevent them. Brushing your cat regularly can help to remove loose hair before they ingest it.

Additionally, there are special hairball remedies you can purchase, such as treats or supplements.

2. Choose the Right Food

Choose a high-quality cat food that meets all of your cat’s nutritional needs. Avoid feeding your cat table scraps or human food, as this can upset their stomachs and lead to vomiting.

3. Keep Your Cat Safe

Keeping your home free of toxic plants and chemicals can help prevent accidental poisoning. Additionally, keeping hazardous items out of reach and supervising your cat when they are outside can help prevent ingestion of harmful substances.

Conclusion

Vomiting in cats can be caused by a number of factors, some of which may require veterinary attention. If you notice your cat vomiting frequently or displaying other symptoms, it’s important to seek veterinary attention.

By understanding the common causes of cat vomiting and taking preventative measures, you can help keep your cat healthy and happy.