A cat vomiting occasionally is normal. But when vomiting is frequent, contains blood, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it's a warning sign. Here's how to tell the difference between minor causes and those that require a vet visit.
The most common (and harmless) causes
1. Hairballs (trichobezoars)
Cats groom themselves for 4 hours a day, swallowing a lot of fur. When it builds up, they bring it back up in the form of a thread-like "sausage".
- Normal frequency: 1–2 times a month
- Prevention: daily brushing, tube paste (Malt extra)
2. Eating too quickly
Vomiting right after a meal, with whole undigested food. Solution: a slow-feeder bowl (with obstacles) or smaller, more frequent portions.
3. Sudden diet change
Cats are particularly sensitive to changes in food. Switch gradually over 7–14 days by mixing the old and new food together.
4. Grass
Cats eat grass intentionally to trigger vomiting (expelling fur or undigested food). This is normal — in fact, it's helpful. Grow cat grass at home.
Causes not to overlook
5. Intestinal parasites
Roundworms (ascarids) and tapeworms cause recurring vomiting in kittens and cats with outdoor access. Deworm every 3 months.
6. Dietary indiscretion
Did they steal some human food? Lick something outside? Toxic plants (lily, poinsettia, dieffenbachia)? Acute vomiting 1–6 hours later.
7. Chronic gastritis / IBD
Frequent vomiting (multiple times a week) lasting more than 3–4 weeks. Often associated with weight loss and diarrhoea.
8. Kidney failure
Common in cats over 10 years old. Vomiting + excessive thirst + weight loss.
9. Pancreatitis
Vomiting + abdominal pain (cat hunched over, reluctant to move) + zero appetite.
10. Foreign bodies
Thread, rubber bands, parts of swallowed toys. Violent and recurring vomiting. Surgical emergency.
When to go to the vet URGENTLY
- More than 3 vomiting episodes in 24 hours
- Vomiting with blood (red or "coffee grounds")
- Vomiting + profuse diarrhoea
- Vomiting + lethargy + refusal to eat for more than 24 hours
- Vomiting + tender or swollen abdomen
- Vomiting + difficulty breathing
- Kittens or senior cats with any persistent vomiting
What to do at home (occasional vomiting)
- No food for 6–12 hours (not recommended for kittens)
- Water in small sips
- Reintroduce food with a bland diet (boiled chicken without skin)
- Gradually return to the regular diet over 2–3 days
What NOT to do
- Give human medications (Maalox, Plasil): they can be toxic
- Give milk (it worsens nausea)
- Ignore the problem if vomiting persists beyond 24 hours
For your cat's general health, also read our guides on neutering and how much they should eat.
