Why Is My Cat Vomiting?

Vomiting in cats is a very common issue, but that doesn’t mean it is normal or healthy. Sometimes it’s something simple, like eating too fast. Other times, it’s a sign that something deeper is going on. Learn how to tell when to be concerned!

Vomiting, Regurgitation, or Coughing

Before jumping to conclusions, it’s important to figure out what is actually happening.

Vomiting is an active process. Your cat will retch, heave, and then expel partially digested contents. Regurgitation, on the other hand, is much more passive. Food comes up quickly, often looking undigested, and without much effort. Then there’s coughing, which can sometimes look similar but doesn’t produce food or liquid.

Each one points to different causes. If you’re unsure, take a quick video to show your vet.

Acute vs. Chronic Vomiting

Acute vomiting comes on suddenly. Maybe your cat got into something they shouldn’t have, ate too fast, or picked up a minor infection. Once the issue is resolved, the vomiting usually stops.

Chronic vomiting is more of a pattern. It happens off and on for weeks or even months and is often tied to underlying conditions that need ongoing management.

Knowing which one you’re dealing with can help you figure out your next move.

Common Causes of Cat Vomiting

There’s a long list of reasons your cat might be throwing up, but most fall into these two categories.

Digestive-related causes are some of the most common. These include eating too quickly, hairballs, food sensitivities, parasites, or even swallowing something they shouldn’t have.

Then there are non-digestive causes, like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, infections, or reactions to medications. These tend to be more serious and usually come with other symptoms.

What Does Your Cat’s Vomit Mean?

It might be gross, but the appearance of your cat’s vomit can give you helpful clues.

• Yellow (bile): Often means an empty stomach

• White foam: Could point to irritation in the digestive tract

• Undigested food: Your cat may be eating too fast—or regurgitating

• Hairballs: Common, especially in long-haired cats

• Clear liquid: Could be water or stomach fluids

• Blood or black material: More serious—contact your vet

• Green: May indicate bile from deeper in the intestines

• Worms: A clear sign of parasites that need treatment

Patterns matter too. A one-off hairball isn’t the same as frequent vomiting several times a week.

Other Symptoms to Watch For

Medical issues rarely have vomiting as the only symptom. Pay attention to what else is going on. These other symptoms can help you determine whether this is a minor issue or something that needs veterinary attention:

• Loss of appetite

• Diarrhea or constipation

• Weight loss

• Increased thirst

• Low energy or hiding more than usual

When Should You Call the Vet?

If your cat vomits once and then goes back to normal, it may not be urgent. But there are times when you shouldn’t wait.

Reach out to your vet if your cat:

• Vomits multiple times in a short period

• Stops eating or drinking

• Has vomiting along with diarrhea

• Shows signs of dehydration or lethargy

• Has a known health condition like kidney disease or diabetes

• Vomits blood or worms

When in doubt, it’s always better to check.

If Medical Issues Are Ruled Out, Look at Digestion

If your vet has ruled out underlying illness, the issue might not be medical. It could be digestive. In many cases, that comes back to diet.

A lot of cats are eating highly processed food that doesn’t align with how their bodies are designed to function. Over time, that mismatch can show up as symptoms like frequent vomiting.

The Importance of Diet

Cats are obligate carnivores, and their bodies are built to process animal protein, not fillers or excess carbohydrates.

They also naturally get most of their hydration from food. When diets are low in moisture and high in processed ingredients, digestion can take a hit.

That can lead to irritation, poor nutrient absorption, and vomiting.

How Raw Cat Food Can Help

If digestion is the issue, switching to a more biologically appropriate diet can make a noticeable difference.

Raw cat food is:

• Rich in moisture (closer to what cats naturally need)

• Made with high-quality animal protein

• Free from unnecessary fillers, grains, and other additives

This combination makes it easier for your cat to digest and utilize nutrients, which can help reduce stomach upset over time.

Many cat owners also notice benefits like smaller, less smelly stools, healthier coats, and more consistent energy levels.

A Better Way to Feed Your Cat

At Steve’s Real Food, we focus on creating diets that actually support your cat’s natural biology.

Our Quest line is designed specifically for cats, offering complete and balanced raw meals in both frozen and freeze-dried options. That means you can choose what works best for your routine without compromising on quality.

Ready to try raw? Find Steve’s Real Food at your local pet store or shop online.