Why Does My Cat Keep Throwing Up? Causes, Concerns, and What to Do

It’s never fun to clean up cat vomit—especially when it happens over and over. If your cat keeps throwing up, you’re probably wondering: “Is this normal, or should I be worried?”

Occasional vomiting in cats can be harmless, but frequent or sudden changes might signal something more serious. In this post, we’ll break down the common reasons cats throw up, what to look out for, and when it’s time to call the vet.

Is Occasional Vomiting Normal for Cats?

Yes—occasional vomiting can be normal, especially if it’s due to:

  • Hairballs (caused by grooming)

  • Mild stomach upset

  • Eating too fast

However, if your cat throws up several times a week or shows other symptoms like weight loss, low energy, or diarrhea, it’s time to investigate further.

Common Causes of Frequent Vomiting in Cats

1. Hairballs

Cats groom themselves constantly, and in the process, they swallow loose fur. That hair can clump together in the stomach and get vomited back up.

Signs it’s a hairball:

  • Cylindrical shape

  • Occasional occurrence (once every week or two)

  • Usually nothing to worry about, but frequent hairballs may need attention

✅ Tip: Brush your cat regularly and try hairball-control food or treats.

2. Eating Too Fast

Some cats scarf down their food and throw it right back up within minutes.

How to tell:

  • Vomit contains undigested food

  • Happens shortly after meals

✅ Tip: Use a slow feeder bowl or feed smaller, more frequent meals.

3. Food Sensitivities or Allergies

Just like people, cats can react to certain ingredients in their food.

Signs include:

  • Vomiting after eating

  • Diarrhea

  • Itchy skin or frequent scratching

✅ Tip: Try a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diet—consult your vet first.

4. Foreign Object Ingestion

Cats are curious creatures. If they chew on string, plants, or small objects, those items can irritate or block the digestive tract.

Warning signs:

  • Vomiting with little or no food

  • Lethargy

  • Lack of appetite

⚠ Call your vet immediately if you suspect your cat swallowed something unusual.

5. Parasites

Intestinal parasites like roundworms or hookworms can cause nausea and vomiting.

Symptoms may include:

  • Weight loss

  • Diarrhea

  • Swollen belly (especially in kittens)

✅ Tip: Get your cat tested and dewormed as recommended by your vet.

6. Underlying Health Conditions

Chronic vomiting may be a sign of something more serious, such as:

  • Kidney disease

  • Hyperthyroidism

  • Diabetes

  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

These conditions often come with other symptoms like weight loss, increased thirst, or changes in appetite.

⚠ If vomiting is frequent and paired with other symptoms, see your vet.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Get veterinary help if your cat:

  • Vomits more than once a week

  • Has blood in vomit

  • Is losing weight

  • Seems lethargic or weak

  • Shows signs of dehydration

  • Has diarrhea or a poor appetite

Even if your cat seems okay otherwise, chronic vomiting is not normal.

What to Do If Your Cat Keeps Throwing Up

Here are some smart steps to take:

  1. Track vomiting episodes – Note when and what your cat throws up

  2. Check their food – Look for recent changes or low-quality ingredients

  3. Try a slow feeder – Especially if your cat eats too quickly

  4. Groom regularly – Reduce hairballs by brushing more often

  5. Schedule a vet visit – Especially if the vomiting doesn’t improve

How to Prevent Cat Vomiting

Prevention depends on the cause, but general tips include:

  • Feeding a consistent, high-quality diet

  • Offering meals in small, controlled portions

  • Using hairball remedies for long-haired breeds

  • Keeping string, ribbon, and plants out of reach

  • Staying up to date with deworming and vet checkups

Final Thoughts

Occasional vomiting might just be part of being a cat—but frequent or intense episodes are your cat’s way of telling you something’s wrong.

By paying close attention, adjusting their care, and seeking vet help when needed, you can keep your feline friend happy, healthy, and far from the puke zone.

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