Let’s face it, we all know the age-old joke about cats having hairballs, but how do you know what’s normal? How often is too often? Is this their first time vomiting? What exactly are they bringing up? It's natural to feel anxious and question the reasons behind their behavior.

Understanding why your cat is throwing up can feel like solving a feline mystery, as we all know that cats are notoriously curious, which can lead to some unpleasant surprises.

The usual suspects

Cats are curious creatures, and their inquisitive nature can sometimes lead them to hurl on your carpet. Here are some common reasons Kitty might be leaving a surprise for you to step on:

Hairballs: The furry culprits

If you’ve ever heard that very distinctive hacking sound, you already know what’s coming next. Hairballs are a regular part of a cat’s life, especially for our long fur friends. When your cat grooms itself (which is basically their full-time job), the loose hair then clumps together in the stomach, and about once a week, you end up with a damp and gross wad of fur on the carpet. 

Tip: Regular grooming with a brush can help reduce hairballs and keep your home cleaner!

Dietary indiscretion: The snack attack

Cats can and will sometimes be like tiny furry vacuum cleaners, eating things they shouldn’t— like pieces of strings or table scraps. This can lead to gastrointestinal blockages that are serious and will require immediate vet attention. If you catch your cat in the act of snacking on something suspicious, it might be time for a stern talking to or an emergency vet visit.

Eating too fast: The speed eater

Some cats are speed eaters, inhaling their meals like they’re having a competitive eating contest. This can lead to regurgitation–where food comes back up undigested–rather than actual vomiting. If your cat is scarfing down their food at lightning speed, consider investing in a slow feeder bowl or spreading their food out on a plate to help slow them down. 

Food allergies or sensitivities: The sneaky culprit

Just like humans, cats can have food allergies. Your cat could be eating the same food or protein that they’ve been eating since they were kittens and all of a sudden, boom, they’re allergic to it now (it happens more than you might think)! If your cat suddenly starts vomiting after eating a particular brand of food or treats, it might be time to consult with your vet about possible allergens. 

Tip: Keep an eye on any changes in their diet and note any reactions

Gastrointestinal issues: The serious culprit 

Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis, or even parasites can cause vomiting. These issues often require veterinary intervention and management. If your cat shows signs of distress or discomfort alongside vomiting, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian. 

Serious health problems: When it’s time to worry

Vomiting can sometimes be the indicator of more severe health conditions such as kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or cancer. If your cat is vomiting frequently (more than a couple times a month) or shows other symptoms like lethargy or loss of appetite, it’s crucial to get them checked out by a vet. 

Tip: Record the amount of times the vomiting happens, and note the color, the smell, and the consistency of the vomit 

What does vomit tell you?

The appearance of your cat’s vomit can provide clues about what might be wrong:

● Hairballs: Long and cylindrical

● Food: Often tubular or in a pile if regurgitated

● Bile: Yellowish and typically occurs when the stomach is empty

● Blood: A serious sign that requires immediate vet attention

● Worms: Sometimes visible in the vomit if your cat has intestinal parasites

When to worry 

While the occasional vomiting is generally not a cause for concern, especially when it’s a hairball, keep an eye on the frequency and accompanying symptoms. If your cat exhibits any of the following alongside vomiting, it’s time to call the vet: 

● Frequent vomiting (more than twice a month)

● Lethargy or weakness

● Loss of appetite

● Diarrhea

● Vomit that contains blood or foreign objects

While cats are their own expert groomers and prone to the occasional vomiting, frequent episodes should not be ignored. Understanding the reason behind your cat’s behavior can help you continue caring for them and keep your home cleaner (and vomit-free). Remember, if in doubt, consult your veterinarian.

Ebony R is the founder of Atlanta Dog Mom, a community founded to bring together diverse dog moms to connect, learn, and encourage each other to be the best dog moms we can be. In real life, she enjoys deep-diving of various topics, studying veterinary nursing, and doing queer things in the streets of Atlanta with a small group of friends.