Why Is My Cat Throwing Up Every Day? Finding Solutions

Is your cat throwing up every day, leaving you worried and searching for answers? Frequent vomiting in cats can be alarming, but at solcat.net, we’re here to help you understand the potential causes and find effective solutions for your feline friend’s well-being. Identifying the reason is the first step to providing relief.

Frequent regurgitation in cats can indicate underlying health issues like dietary problems, allergies, or something more serious. Discover dependable insights and practical steps at solcat.net to stop your cat’s daily vomiting, enhance their overall wellness, and restore tranquility.

1. Initial Assessment: Gathering Information About Your Cat’s Vomiting

Before heading to the vet, take detailed notes. This information will help your veterinarian narrow down the possible causes of your cat’s vomiting.

Was the cat exposed to plants and other toxins? Consider if your cat has access to potentially toxic plants or substances.
When did the vomiting start? Note the onset of the vomiting episodes.
What is the cat’s normal diet? Describe the type and brand of food your cat usually eats.
Does the cat go outside, and if so does the cat hunt? Outdoor cats may ingest things that cause vomiting.
What is in the vomit? Observe the contents of the vomit (food, bile, blood, etc.).
Is the cat on medication? Some medications can cause vomiting as a side effect.
Is there also diarrhea? The presence of diarrhea alongside vomiting can indicate certain conditions.
Is the cat eating? Note if your cat’s appetite has changed.
When does the vomiting occur (in relation to eating or other activities)? Time the vomiting episodes to meals or activities.
Is the cat losing weight? Weight loss can be a sign of a more serious underlying issue.
Is the cat drinking a lot or urinating a lot? Increased thirst and urination can be symptoms of certain diseases.
Does the cat play with string? String and other linear foreign bodies can cause intestinal blockages.

Based on your answers, your veterinarian can better determine what diagnostic tests are needed.

2. Understanding Vomit Characteristics: Clues to the Cause

While the appearance of the vomit doesn’t provide a definitive diagnosis, it can offer valuable clues.

Yellow Vomit: This typically indicates bile, which can suggest liver disease or an empty stomach. It could also mean your cat consumed something yellow.
Clear Vomit: This could be regurgitation from the esophagus or vomit from an empty stomach.
White, Foamy Vomit: Similar to clear vomit, this often points to regurgitation or an empty stomach.
Blood in the Vomit: This signals bleeding from the mouth, esophagus, or stomach.
Coffee-Ground Appearance to the Vomit: This indicates bleeding from the stomach, commonly seen with ulcers.
Brown, Smelly Vomit: This could be from bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract or the ingestion of something brown and foul-smelling.
Undigested Food in the Vomit: This suggests the food hasn’t left the stomach, potentially due to food intolerances, allergies, obstructions, or upper gastrointestinal tract irritation. Knowing when the cat last ate is crucial. For example, vomiting undigested food after a day of not eating could point to an obstruction or motility disorder.

Cat throwing up undigested food on the carpet near a living room.

3. The Veterinarian’s Examination: A Comprehensive Assessment

A thorough physical exam by your veterinarian is the next crucial step. They’ll look for:

Abdominal pain
Masses in the abdomen or elsewhere
Obvious foreign bodies (like a string under the tongue)
Evidence of weight loss
Heart murmur
Enlarged thyroid gland
Fever

The exam helps the veterinarian decide which diagnostics, if any, are necessary.

4. Diagnostic Testing: Uncovering the Root Cause

If warranted, initial tests usually include abdominal radiographs (X-rays) and blood work with a urinalysis.

4.1. Abdominal X-Rays

X-rays can reveal:

Abnormalities in organ size and shape
Foreign bodies
Tumors
Constipation
Other abnormalities not detectable during a physical exam

4.2. Blood Work and Urinalysis

Blood work can detect:

Organ dysfunction
Endocrine disorders like diabetes and hyperthyroidism
Exposure to some toxins (like antifreeze)

A urinalysis, in conjunction with blood work, is needed to diagnose conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and urinary tract infections.

Unfortunately, easy tests to diagnose toxin exposure are limited. Often, a diagnosis requires knowing about potential exposure and the presence of classic signs of toxin exposure.

5. Advanced Diagnostics: When Further Investigation Is Needed

Often, X-rays don’t provide a complete diagnosis (except for foreign bodies and a few other conditions). They help determine if further abdominal studies are needed.

5.1. Barium Study

A barium study can help determine if there are:

Foreign objects in the intestines
Motility issues with the intestines

5.2. Ultrasound

An ultrasound allows for a detailed look at the architecture of different organs. It can also be used to sample different organs for a definitive diagnosis.

5.3. Endoscopy

An endoscopy involves using a scope to look into the stomach, upper intestines, or colon. It can help:

Find foreign objects in the stomach that don’t show up on X-rays
Retrieve foreign objects
View the lining of the stomach and upper intestines for abnormalities
Collect samples of the upper gastrointestinal tract

6. Exploratory Surgery: A Last Resort for Diagnosis

In cases of persistent vomiting not controlled by symptomatic therapy, exploratory surgery might be necessary. This is true for both acute (e.g., suspected foreign body) and chronic vomiting (e.g., suspected intestinal cancer, non-intestinal abdominal disease, or inflammatory bowel disease).

Foreign Objects: Surgery can diagnose and fix the problem by removing the foreign object.
Chronic Vomiting: If no foreign object is found, biopsies can be taken during surgery. The goal is to diagnose conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or cancer by taking biopsies of the intestines, stomach, liver, pancreas, lymph nodes, and any abnormalities.

Some veterinarians prefer surgery over endoscopy because the entire intestinal tract and various abdominal organs can be evaluated. Full-thickness and larger intestinal biopsies can also be taken, along with biopsies of the liver, pancreas, and lymph nodes.

Conversely, endoscopy might be preferred because it’s usually less expensive and less invasive, with a faster recovery time. However, surgery is preferred if the entire intestinal tract needs evaluation.

Due to the invasive and expensive nature of some diagnostics (endoscopy can cost up to $1,500, and exploratory surgery can exceed $2,000), many pet owners opt out. Treatments can be implemented without a full diagnosis, but these decisions should be made in consultation with your veterinarian, considering the associated risks.

7. Treatment Options: Addressing the Underlying Cause

Treatment for vomiting varies greatly based on the underlying cause. While describing the treatment for each specific cause is beyond the scope of this article, we can provide some general approaches.

7.1. Fluid Therapy

If the physical exam reveals no abnormalities and the cat’s history doesn’t raise any red flags, your veterinarian might recommend symptomatic therapy, such as administering fluids subcutaneously (under the skin). Even if your cat isn’t clinically dehydrated, fluids can help flush the system and maintain hydration. Vomiting patients are often mildly dehydrated from fluid loss.

Dehydration is a self-perpetuating problem. Dehydrated cats often feel unwell, leading to a decreased appetite and increased vomiting, exacerbating the dehydration.

Some form of fluid therapy is administered for almost every cause of vomiting. Severely dehydrated or weak animals often require intravenous (IV) fluids, which involve placing a catheter in a vein to deliver fluids directly. This method allows for a greater volume of fluids to be administered throughout the day. However, IV fluid therapy is significantly more expensive and requires hospitalization. In very dehydrated patients, subcutaneous fluids may not be absorbed effectively, making IV fluids necessary.

7.2. Anti-Vomiting Medication

Another common treatment for most types of vomiting is an anti-emetic (anti-vomiting) medication. These medications can help stop the vomiting, reducing fluid loss. They can also relieve abdominal discomfort and encourage your cat to eat. Sometimes, stomach protectants like Pepcid or sucralfate might be indicated, although their effectiveness is debated. These medications typically do not cause any harm. If anti-emetics don’t provide adequate pain control, a pain medication might be added to the treatment plan.

Cat being held gently by a person.

7.3. Dietary Changes

Dietary changes are a crucial treatment for both acute and chronically vomiting cats. For acute cases, a temporary change to an easily digestible diet might be recommended, such as Royal Canin Gastrointestinal High Energy cat food, Hill’s i/d cat food, or a bland human food like meat-flavored baby food (without onion or garlic powder) or boiled chicken. Remember that chicken and baby foods are not complete diets and should only be used for a few days.

For cats with chronic vomiting, a diet change can be both therapeutic and diagnostic. If the new food controls the vomiting, a dietary intolerance, allergy, or low-grade inflammatory bowel disease may be the underlying cause. For diet trials in chronically vomiting cats, maintain the new diet for several weeks to assess its effectiveness. Ensure the cat is on a prescription diet or a limited-ingredient prescription diet to guarantee a complete and balanced nutritional intake.

7.4. Prednisone

Inflammatory bowel disease might be the cause of vomiting in some cats. Prednisone is often used to treat inflammatory bowel disease. However, it’s not recommended to use prednisone without prior diagnostic testing due to its potential side effects, including increased thirst and urination, a weakened immune system, and muscle weakness. Prednisone can also worsen certain causes of vomiting, such as pancreatitis, diabetes, and kidney disease. If blood work and X-rays are normal and further diagnostics are declined, a trial of prednisone could be considered after a thorough discussion with your veterinarian about the risks.

8. Common Causes of Daily Vomiting in Cats

To further explore the reasons behind your cat’s daily vomiting, let’s examine some of the most prevalent causes:

8.1. Hairballs

Explanation: Cats are meticulous groomers, and as they lick their fur, they inevitably ingest hair. This hair can accumulate in the stomach, forming hairballs.
Symptoms: Coughing, gagging, and vomiting are common signs of hairballs.
Solutions: Regular grooming, hairball-specific diets, and hairball remedies can help manage hairballs.

8.2. Dietary Issues

Explanation: Food allergies, intolerances, or sensitivities can lead to vomiting.
Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, skin irritation, and poor coat quality can be indicative of dietary problems.
Solutions: Switching to a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet, or working with your veterinarian to identify specific allergens, can alleviate symptoms.

8.3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Explanation: IBD is a chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.
Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and decreased appetite are common symptoms of IBD.
Solutions: Treatment typically involves dietary management, medication (such as corticosteroids), and probiotics.

8.4. Kidney Disease

Explanation: Kidney disease is a common ailment in older cats.
Symptoms: Vomiting, increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and lethargy can be signs of kidney disease.
Solutions: Management includes dietary changes, fluid therapy, and medications to manage symptoms.

8.5. Hyperthyroidism

Explanation: Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid gland, which leads to increased metabolism.
Symptoms: Vomiting, weight loss, increased appetite, hyperactivity, and increased thirst are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Solutions: Treatment options include medication, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery.

8.6. Pancreatitis

Explanation: Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas.
Symptoms: Vomiting, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, and lethargy can be signs of pancreatitis.
Solutions: Treatment involves supportive care, including fluid therapy, pain management, and anti-emetics.

8.7. Foreign Body Ingestion

Explanation: Cats, especially kittens, may ingest foreign objects.
Symptoms: Vomiting, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, and lethargy are signs that your cat may have ingested a foreign object.
Solutions: Treatment may involve inducing vomiting or surgical removal of the object.

8.8. Infections

Explanation: Viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections can cause vomiting.
Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, and decreased appetite are common symptoms.
Solutions: Treatment depends on the specific infection and may include antibiotics, antiparasitics, or supportive care.

8.9. Liver Disease

Explanation: Liver disease can impair the liver’s ability to function properly.
Symptoms: Vomiting, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), decreased appetite, and lethargy can be signs of liver disease.
Solutions: Treatment involves dietary management, medications, and supportive care.

8.10. Cancer

Explanation: Cancer in the digestive tract or other organs can cause vomiting.
Symptoms: Vomiting, weight loss, decreased appetite, and lethargy can be symptoms of cancer.
Solutions: Treatment depends on the type and location of the cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

9. Practical Tips to Help Prevent Vomiting in Cats

To reduce the likelihood of your cat experiencing daily vomiting, consider implementing these preventive measures:

9.1. Regular Grooming

Explanation: Regular brushing helps reduce the amount of hair your cat ingests during grooming, minimizing hairball formation.
Action: Brush your cat several times a week, especially during shedding season.

9.2. Proper Diet

Explanation: Feeding your cat a high-quality, balanced diet appropriate for their age and health condition can prevent dietary sensitivities and allergies.
Action: Choose a reputable cat food brand and consult with your veterinarian for dietary recommendations.

9.3. Small, Frequent Meals

Explanation: Feeding your cat smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent an empty stomach, which can lead to bile-induced vomiting.
Action: Divide your cat’s daily food allowance into several small meals throughout the day.

9.4. Avoid Sudden Diet Changes

Explanation: Sudden changes in diet can disrupt your cat’s digestive system and cause vomiting.
Action: Transition to a new food gradually over a period of 7-10 days.

9.5. Provide Fresh Water

Explanation: Ensuring your cat has access to fresh, clean water at all times is crucial for hydration and overall health.
Action: Keep your cat’s water bowl clean and refill it daily. Consider using a water fountain to encourage drinking.

9.6. Monitor Plant Ingestion

Explanation: Many common houseplants are toxic to cats and can cause vomiting if ingested.
Action: Identify and remove any toxic plants from your home or ensure they are inaccessible to your cat.

9.7. Secure Small Objects

Explanation: Small objects, such as string, rubber bands, and toys, can be ingested by cats and cause gastrointestinal blockages.
Action: Keep small objects out of your cat’s reach and supervise playtime with toys that can be easily swallowed.

9.8. Stress Reduction

Explanation: Stress can contribute to vomiting in some cats.
Action: Create a calm and stable environment for your cat, providing plenty of hiding places, scratching posts, and playtime.

9.9. Regular Veterinary Check-Ups

Explanation: Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect underlying health issues early, before they lead to chronic vomiting.
Action: Schedule annual or bi-annual check-ups for your cat, and consult your veterinarian promptly if you notice any signs of illness.

9.10. Probiotics

Explanation: Probiotics can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can improve digestion and prevent vomiting.
Action: Consider adding a probiotic supplement to your cat’s diet, especially if they have a history of digestive issues.

10. When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care

While occasional vomiting may not be a cause for alarm, certain symptoms warrant immediate veterinary attention:

Frequent or persistent vomiting: If your cat is vomiting multiple times a day or vomiting continues for more than 24 hours, seek veterinary care.
Blood in the vomit: The presence of blood in the vomit can indicate a serious underlying condition.
Lethargy or weakness: If your cat is unusually tired or weak, it could be a sign of dehydration or a more severe problem.
Abdominal pain: If your cat is exhibiting signs of abdominal pain, such as restlessness, guarding their abdomen, or crying out when touched, seek veterinary care.
Dehydration: Signs of dehydration include sunken eyes, dry gums, and decreased skin elasticity.
Difficulty breathing: If your cat is having trouble breathing, it is a medical emergency.
Known toxin ingestion: If you know or suspect that your cat has ingested a toxin, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately.

Cat is being examined by a veterinarian.

11. Understanding Feline Vomiting: Research Insights

Research from reputable sources provides valuable insights into feline vomiting.

Cornell Feline Health Center: According to research from the Cornell Feline Health Center, dietary indiscretion (eating inappropriate or spoiled food) is a common cause of acute vomiting in cats.
American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA): The AAHA emphasizes the importance of a thorough veterinary examination and diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of chronic vomiting in cats.
Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine: A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a common cause of chronic vomiting in cats, often requiring long-term management with dietary changes and medication.

12. Contact Information

For expert care and assistance, contact:

Address: 950 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98104, United States
Phone: +1 (206) 386-4000
Website: solcat.net

13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

13.1. Why is my cat throwing up clear liquid every day?
Clear liquid vomit often indicates an empty stomach or regurgitation from the esophagus. This can be due to hunger, mild irritation, or dietary issues.

13.2. What should I do if my cat throws up every day?
Record the frequency, appearance, and timing of the vomiting. Consult your veterinarian for a thorough examination and possible diagnostic tests.

13.3. Can hairballs cause my cat to vomit every day?
Yes, frequent hairballs can lead to daily vomiting. Regular grooming and hairball remedies can help manage this issue.

13.4. Is it normal for cats to throw up occasionally?
Occasional vomiting can be normal, but daily vomiting is not and requires veterinary attention.

13.5. What are some common causes of vomiting in cats?
Common causes include hairballs, dietary issues, infections, inflammatory bowel disease, and foreign body ingestion.

13.6. How can I prevent my cat from throwing up?
Preventive measures include regular grooming, feeding a balanced diet, providing fresh water, and reducing stress.

13.7. When should I be concerned about my cat’s vomiting?
Seek immediate veterinary care if your cat is vomiting frequently, has blood in the vomit, is lethargic, or shows signs of abdominal pain.

13.8. Can a change in diet cause my cat to throw up?
Yes, sudden diet changes can disrupt your cat’s digestive system. Introduce new foods gradually.

13.9. What tests will my vet do if my cat is throwing up?
Your vet may perform blood tests, urinalysis, X-rays, ultrasounds, or endoscopy to determine the cause of vomiting.

13.10. Is there a home remedy for cat vomiting?
While some home remedies like bland diets can help, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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