If you have a pet and it’s a cat, you’ve probably seen it vomit from time to time. While vomiting is common in cats, it can sometimes cause serious problems that require medical attention. So why do cats vomit and when should a veterinarian be consulted?
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Feather Balls
Hairballs are the most common cause of vomiting in cats. When they lick themselves to clean, the hairs on their bodies go into their mouths. Since cats do not have a spitting function, these hairs accumulate in the abdomen and form a hairball.
The first thing to do to avoid this situation is to brush your cat regularly. In this way, you can prevent the ingestion of dead hairs by collecting the hairs inside the feathers.
Foreign Food Consumption
If your cat has unconsciously consumed a different food or substance that may cause an allergic reaction, it may vomit. Vomiting may occur when they consume herbs and plants.
Food Exchange
Stomach problems can occur if you constantly change your cat’s food. Switching from dry food to wet food can cause vomiting. If your cat vomits as a result of such situations, you can go back to the old food and follow the vomiting situation.
Cat Parasites
These are parasites found in the digestive tract. If your cat is vomiting and you see worms in her stool, it’s likely food parasites. When you encounter such a situation, you should contact your veterinarian directly.
Cats may vomit for a variety of reasons. Some common causes include:
Hairballs: Cats groom themselves frequently, and they can ingest a lot of hair during this process. This hair can form a ball in their stomach, which can cause them to vomit.
Eating too quickly: Cats that eat too quickly can ingest a lot of air, which can cause them to vomit.
Eating something they shouldn’t: Cats are curious creatures and may eat things they shouldn’t, such as plants, toys, or even small objects. These things can cause an upset stomach and vomiting.
Food intolerance or allergies: Some cats may have a food intolerance or allergy that causes them to vomit.
Gastrointestinal infection or inflammation: Cats can develop infections or inflammation in their gastrointestinal tract that can cause vomiting.
Parasites: Cats can also get parasites such as roundworm, tapeworms, and hookworms which could cause them to vomit.
Kidney or liver disease: Chronic health conditions like kidney or liver disease can also cause vomiting in cats.
It’s important to consult with a veterinarian if your cat is vomiting frequently or if the vomiting is accompanied by other symptoms such as diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, or lethargy. A veterinarian may recommend a physical examination, blood tests, X-rays, or ultrasound to determine the underlying cause of the vomiting.
If your cat is vomiting only occasionally and seems otherwise healthy, it may not be necessary to consult a veterinarian. However, if vomiting persists or you notice any other concerning symptoms, it’s best to seek medical attention.