You’re relaxing on the couch when you hear that familiar retching noise. “Huk, huk, huk…” Part of you hopes that whatever Cleo is bringing up will land on the tile floor not the rug, but you also feel that niggling worry; is she okay? Most people who live with cats have some experience with cleaning up vomit, but what should you do and when is there cause for concern? And if Cleo has to see the veterinarian, what sort of information would be helpful to have, and what testing may be performed?

When should you call the veterinarian?

Your cat may vomit once or twice, but then seem just fine, with normal behavior, energy, and appetite. The vomiting may be self-limiting and respond to home treatment (see box below). However, prolonged vomiting may lead to dehydration or indicate a more serious problem. The following are reasons to call your veterinarian right away:

• If the vomit is bloody or accompanied by loss of appetite, lethargy, or diarrhea.
• If vomiting persists for over 24 hours.
• If vomiting is chronic, i.e. continues off and on for more than 1-2 weeks.
• If your cat is vomiting persistently and is either very young, very old, or in otherwise frail health.

If there is any doubt, call your veterinarian right away, as vomiting can be a sign of serious illness.

Causes

There are many causes of vomiting in cats, and this article is meant as a brief survey of the. The following are some of the more common ones.

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