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Why Is My Cat Throwing Up? Vomit Color Guide

The color and timing of vomit offer clues about the cause. Find your cat's vomit color below, then use the checker to see how urgent it is.

Vomit colorMost likely meaningUrgency
White FoamWhite, foamy vomit in cats is usually stomach fluid mixed with air, often when the stomach is empty or irritated, or while trying to bring up a hairball.Usually mild
Clear LiquidClear liquid vomit is usually water, saliva or stomach fluidUsually mild
Undigested FoodCats that eat quickly often vomit undigested food minutes later ("scarf and barf")Usually mild
YellowYellow vomit in cats is usually bile, often from an empty stomachDepends on signs
BloodBlood in a cat's vomit can be bright red or dark and grainy like coffee groundsSee a vet now

Should I take my cat to the vet?

Tick everything that applies. This is a guide, not a diagnosis.

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Vomiting vs. regurgitation

Vomiting is active: your cat heaves, the belly contracts, and partly digested food or fluid comes up. Regurgitation is passive: undigested food or fluid slides up from the esophagus with little effort, often right after eating. Tell your vet which you saw; the causes are different.

Common causes of cat vomiting

Vomiting is not "normal" for cats. Many owners assume regular vomiting is just hairballs, but vets recommend a check-up for any cat that vomits more than about once a week, as it can be an early sign of chronic disease.

What to do after your cat vomits

  1. Remove food for a few hours and offer small amounts of water.
  2. If no more vomiting, offer a small bland meal.
  3. Return to normal food gradually over 1-2 days.
  4. Call your vet if vomiting returns, or any red-flag signs appear.

Also see: what can I give my pet? · my cat ate something

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