If you love your cat, its health is probably a main priority. If your cat has begun vomiting, it's likely that you're worried and looking for answers. Just like in humans, vomiting in felines can occur for a number of reasons and can be treated in a number of ways. Below is a brief overview of causes of vomiting in cats, when to see your cat's veterinarian, and the sorts of treatment and prevention available for your furry friend.

Causes of Vomiting

There are a number of reasons that cats vomit occasionally. From eating too quickly to a simple stomach bug, vomiting from time to time is completely normal and shouldn't be worrisome.

Occasional vomiting, also called acute vomiting, can sometimes develop into a more serious issue known as chronic vomiting. Chronic vomiting occurs for an extended period of time and can usually be associated with certain activities or triggers, such as excessive heat, stress, or motion sickness. Chronic vomiting can have a number of causes, from a simple food sensitivity to a complex tumor or infection.

When to See the Vet

While occasional vomiting isn't worrisome, there are a few things to watch out for if your cat has begun vomiting.

If you cannot seem to find the source of your cat's vomiting, it's time to consult the veterinarian. Prolonged vomiting can lead to weight loss, lethargy, and dehydration. If your cat is vomiting frequently, the cause could be a simple change in food or a more serious medical issue that requires veterinarian intervention. If you're unable to keep the vomiting under control at home, it's a good idea to bring your cat to the vet for basic testing and health monitoring.

Treatment and Prevention

The treatment your cat receives will depend on the symptoms they're exhibiting as well as the cause of the vomiting.

As mentioned above, a simple diet change can make a world of difference if your cat has a sensitive stomach. If, however, the cause of the vomiting is a tumor or obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract, surgery or other treatments may be needed. Certain medical conditions will require vigilance on your part, so preventative measures, such as diet control or administration of medication, may be required in order to prevent further episodes of vomiting.

To learn more about acute and chronic vomiting, as well as how to treat them at home and prevent them from occurring, consult with your cat's veterinarian. 

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