Many cats vomit from time to time, especially after eating.  If the vomiting is persistent or if your cat has additional symptoms, it may be ill.  Please see your veterinarian to determine if an illness is the cause vomiting.

Once your cat has received a clean bill of health from the veterinarian, you can look to other common causes of vomiting:

1. Eating too fast – Cats will vomit to empty their stomach if they ate too much.  Try feeding several small meals instead of one or two large ones.

2. Hairballs – While grooming, cats swallow shedding hair which may ball up in their stomach.  In addition to vomiting up the hairball, your cat may also cough or gag.  Solution:  Give Laxatone or another hairball remedy 2 to 3 times a week.  Science Diet also makes a “Hairball Formula” cat food to prevent the problem.

3. Food Allergy or Sensitivity – Cats may be sensitive to dyes (especially red dye) or other ingredients in cat foods.  Ask your veterinarian about a food that may be better suited to your cat.  Iam’s, Nutra Max, and Purina O.N.E. are red dye-free.

4. Cats may also vomit after eating plants or garbage.

5. Stress can cause vomiting, as well.  Try offering a quiet place for your cat to eat, or consult an animal behaviorist or your veterinarian if you suspect a more complicated problem.

As always, consult your veterinarian if you have questions.