Kittens are adorable bundles of joy, but when they start throwing up, it can be concerning for any pet parent. While occasional cat vomit might not be a cause for alarm, frequent episodes or additional symptoms could indicate underlying health issues.
So, why is your kitten throwing up? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this common concern, including expert insights from Dr. Stephanie Liff, Lemonade’s favorite vet.
What are the common causes of kitten vomiting?
Kittens can throw up for a variety of reasons—some harmless and others more serious. Here are the most common causes:
Parasites
According to Dr. Liff, intestinal parasites are the number one cause of vomiting in kittens. “Every vomiting cat should have a fecal test,” she advises, underscoring how important it is to rule out worms or other parasites early on.
Acute diet change
Sudden switches in your kitten’s food can upset a cat’s stomach. Dr. Liff notes that diet changes are one of the top causes of vomiting in kittens—right behind parasites. Additionally, introducing new food too quickly can upset a kitten’s sensitive stomach, leading to vomiting. Make any changes to your kitten’s diet slowly, so their digestive system has time to adjust. It’s also a good idea to consult your vet before making any diet changes to ensure a smooth and healthy adjustment.
Hairballs
Kittens groom themselves frequently, and in the process, they often ingest loose fur. This can lead to the formation of hairballs, which are compact clumps of fur that may cause your kitten to vomit as they try to expel them. Hairballs are especially common as kittens grow and learn to groom themselves more effectively.
Eating too fast (Scarf and Barf)
Dr. Liff confirms that scarfing down food too quickly—known as “Scarf and Barf”—can cause regurgitation.
Cats are more likely to ‘scarf and barf’ than kittens but it could happen at any age. The best way to handle this behavior is with a slow feeder or rationing meals into smaller, more frequent portions.
Dr. Stephanie Liff
Dietary indiscretion or foreign body ingestion
Kittens are curious creatures and may eat things they shouldn’t, like plants, human foods, or spoiled items. Ingesting foreign objects—like string, ribbons, or small toys—or toxic substances, such as certain houseplants or chemicals, can lead to vomiting. A foreign body can even cause an intestinal blockage, which is a medical emergency.
Gastrointestinal tract irritation
Irritation in your kitten’s digestive tract can stem from infections, or conditions like gastroenteritis. These can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Underlying health conditions
While uncommon, more complex issues like genetic malformations, intestinal obstructions (such as an intussusception), or metabolic diseases (like liver shunts) can also cause vomiting. Dr. Liff explains that although these are not as common in kittens—they’re still possibilities, especially in cases of severe or ongoing symptoms.
Stress and anxiety
Just like humans, kittens can feel the effects of a stressful environment. “If they’re in a stressful or inappropriate environment,” Dr. Liff says, “they can get sick from that in many different ways”—vomiting included.
How can I tell if it’s vomiting or regurgitation?
It’s essential to distinguish between vomiting and regurgitation, as they have different causes:
Vomiting:
- What it looks like: Forceful expulsion, with visible effort — your kitten may heave or retch before bringing anything up.
- What comes out: May include partially digested food, bile (yellow/green fluid), or white foam.
- Timing: Can happen any time after eating.
Regurgitation:
- What it looks like: Passive — it happens suddenly, without warning or effort. No retching beforehand.
- What comes out: Undigested food, usually in a tubular shape or pile, and often right after eating.
- Timing: Typically happens shortly after eating or drinking.
Understanding the difference can help you and your vet determine the underlying cause.
What should I do if my kitten is throwing up?
When your kitten throws up, it’s natural to feel worried. Here’s a step-by-step guide to handle the situation:
Stay calm and observe
Take note of the frequency, color, and consistency of the vomit. For example, if your kitten is vomiting white foam or clear liquid, it could indicate an empty stomach or stomach acid buildup. This information will be helpful if you need to consult a vet.
Keep them hydrated
Vomiting can lead to dehydration, so encourage your kitten to drink small amounts of water. If they refuse, try offering ice cubes or mixing water into wet food.
Check for foreign objects or toxins
Look around your home for anything your kitten might have ingested, like string, plants, or small toys. Remove these items to prevent further risk.
Try a bland diet
Once their stomach has had time to rest, offer a small meal of plain boiled chicken or a vet-recommended bland diet. Avoid their regular cat food immediately, as it could irritate their stomach.
Avoid stressors
Keep your kitten in a calm, quiet environment to help them relax. Stress can worsen tummy troubles.
When should I call the vet about my kitten’s vomiting?
While occasional vomiting may not be a cause for concern, certain signs indicate it’s time to contact your vet:
- Vomiting persists for more than 24 hours
- Your kitten shows other symptoms like lethargy, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
- The vomit contains blood, bile, or material that looks like coffee grounds (which can indicate internal bleeding)
- Your kitten refuses to eat or drink
- You suspect they’ve ingested a foreign object or toxin
Dr. Liff emphasizes that diagnosing vomiting depends “largely on history and severity.” Depending on what your vet learns, they may recommend diagnostic tests like bloodwork, x-rays, fecal exams, or even an ultrasound.
Does pet insurance cover kitten vomiting?
Yes—pet insurance can help cover the cost of diagnosing and treating vomiting in kittens when it’s linked to an illness, infection, or accident. For example, if your vet recommends tests like bloodwork, X-rays, or an ultrasound to find out what’s causing your kitten to throw up, those costs may be reimbursable depending on your coverage.
Just keep in mind: Most pet insurance plans won’t cover pre-existing conditions. That’s why it’s a smart idea to sign up for insurance while your kitten is still young and healthy. BTW, did you know that you can cover your kitten with Lemonade pet insurance from the time they’re two months old?
Before we go…
Seeing your kitten throw up can be alarming, but understanding the possible causes and knowing how to respond can make all the difference. If in doubt, always consult your vet to ensure your furry friend gets the help they need.
And don’t forget—pet insurance can be a lifesaver when unexpected health concerns arise. With Lemonade’s pet insurance, you can focus on your kitten’s well-being without worrying about the financial burden. Get your free quote today and keep your little one covered
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
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