Sudden Vomiting in Cats

Though sudden vomiting in your cat can be alarming, the cause may not be serious. You can investigate some of the common causes before resorting to expensive tests.

  1. Sudden vomiting in cats

    • Cats as a species have one of the more sensitive gag reflexes, and most of the reasons that reflex is triggered are benign. These common reasons should be investigated before more serious medical testing is begun.

    Hairballs

    • Petroleum-based products such as Lanatone can help, or hairball remedy commercial foods can prevent hairballs formed as a result of cats' cleaning themselves.

    Regurgitation

    • Make sure only small portions of food are available at meal times to prevent overeating. Adding a little water or a small amount of canned food to dry food will also help stop regurgitation.

    Inflammatory bowel disease

    • IBD is characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, loss of weight and changes in appetite. Treatments include dietary management, corticosteroids and antibiotics.

    Parasites

    • Roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms and whipworms can cause vomiting. Protozoan parasites such as coccidian, giardia,and toxiplasma can also infect your cat. Treatment includes one or more doses of medication prescribed by your vet.

    More serious causes of vomiting in cats

    • Your veterinarian may use an X-ray, general blood chemistry panel, urinalysis, and blood cell count to rule out systemic illnesses such as kidney failure, liver disease, gall bladder disease, pancreatitis, hypothyroidism, urinary tract blockage or diabetes.