Start with the pattern
One isolated episode is different from repeated vomiting. Note how soon it happens after eating, whether the food looks undigested, how often it occurs, and whether your cat is otherwise eating, drinking, toileting and behaving normally.
Low-risk things to check
- Check whether meals are being eaten unusually fast.
- Keep food changes gradual rather than switching repeatedly.
- Make sure fresh water is easy to reach.
- Record any hairballs, diarrhoea, weight change, appetite change or access to plants, string, medicines or human food.
Do not assume every episode is a hairball
Vomiting can have many causes, and repeated episodes should not simply be written off as normal. Avoid human medicines and do not withhold food for prolonged periods without veterinary advice.
Seek veterinary advice for repeated or worsening vomiting, blood, marked lethargy, pain, inability to keep water down, a swollen abdomen, suspected toxin or foreign-body exposure, or vomiting alongside a significant appetite change.
Source and review note
This page uses Cornell Feline Health Center as a reference starting point. External organisations do not endorse this site.