My cat vomits undigested food: causes and solutions

Every cat owner has experienced this sensation: that feeling of concern when they discover a small puddle near their feline's bowl. Your little friend has just vomited up his undigested food. Faced with this situation, it's perfectly normal to ask yourself questions. Why is this happening? Is it a sign of a more serious health problem? Or is it simply a case of temporary indigestion? The love we feel for our pets naturally leads us to seek the best answers for their well-being.

Digestion in cats is a delicate process and understanding its intricacies is essential to ensuring the health of your four-legged friend. In this article, we'll explore the reasons why a cat may vomit up undigested food and give you some practical advice on how to prevent and manage the situation.

Here's what we'll cover :

• When my cat vomits undigested food: Understanding the physiology
  

• Why does my cat vomit undigested food? Common causes and recommendations
  

• My cat's undigested vomit: the importance of a veterinary consultation.
  

When my cat vomits undigested food: Understanding the physiology

It's late in the evening, and just as you're about to relax in front of your favourite TV series, you hear a familiar but worrying sound: your cat gagging. As you rush over, you discover a small puddle of undigested food. Your first instinct is probably to worry: is my cat ill? Why is this happening?

The health and well-being of our feline companions is a major concern for us as owners. To be able to react appropriately and make the best decisions for your cat, it is essential to understand the mechanisms behind this behaviour. This starts with a basic understanding of the cat's digestive system.

The main role of the cat's digestive system, as with all mammals, is to break down food into elements that can be assimilated by the body. This process begins as soon as the cat swallows its food. Kibbles or pâté are chewed (although cats tend to swallow without chewing too much) and then sent to the stomach via the oesophagus. In the stomach, digestive enzymes and acids begin to break down the food into a semi-liquid mush. This then passes into the small intestine where the nutrients are absorbed. The waste products continue on to the large intestine before being eliminated.

If everything is working normally, the food is completely digested and the waste is expelled without any problems. However, a number of factors can disrupt this delicate process, leading to regurgitation or vomiting of undigested food.

Why does my cat vomit undigested food? Common causes and recommendations

Every cat owner wants their four-legged friend to be healthy and happy. However, problems such as undigested vomiting can sometimes disrupt this peace of mind. Knowing the common causes of this phenomenon is the first step to solving the problem.

a. Common causes of undigested vomiting :

• Swallowing too quickly: Just as some of us can swallow our food without really chewing it, it can happen to cats too. Eating too quickly can lead to vomiting almost immediately after eating.
  

• Intolerances and allergies: Some cats may be intolerant or allergic to certain ingredients in their food. This can cause nausea and vomiting after eating.
  

• Sudden dietary changes: Any sudden change in your cat's diet can upset its digestive system. It is always advisable to introduce any new food gradually.
  

• Intestinal parasites: Worms and other parasites can cause digestive problems, including vomiting.
  

• Underlying health problems: Illnesses such as infections, inflammation or obstructions can also be the cause of undigested vomiting.
  

b. Advice on preventing vomiting :

• Dividing meals: Instead of feeding one large meal, divide your cat's daily ration into several smaller meals. This can help reduce the speed of ingestion.
  

• Use anti-glutton bowls: These bowls are designed to make your cat eat more slowly, which can help prevent it from swallowing too quickly.
  

• Introduce new foods gradually: If you want to change your cat's food, do so gradually over a period of 7 to 10 days. This will allow your cat's digestive system to adapt smoothly.
  

• Monitoring for parasites: Make sure your cat is regularly treated for intestinal parasites. Your vet can recommend the appropriate treatment.
  

My cat's undigested vomit: the importance of a veterinary consultation

While understanding the common causes of vomiting in cats and knowing how to prevent it is essential, it's just as crucial to know when it's time to consult an expert.

Warning signs :

• Frequency: Occasional vomiting may not be alarming, but if your cat vomits regularly or several times a day, this could indicate a more serious underlying problem.
  

• Associated behaviour: If your cat displays other unusual behaviour, such as lethargy, refusal to eat or signs of pain, it needs immediate attention.
  

• Other symptoms: In addition to vomiting, if your cat has other symptoms such as diarrhoea, constipation or blood in the vomit or stools, this may be a sign of a more serious condition.
  

When should you see a vet?

It's essential to consult a vet as soon as you notice any warning signs. Even in the absence of these signs, if you are concerned about your cat's health, it is always best to opt for a consultation. An accurate diagnosis by a professional can help determine the exact cause of the problem and prescribe the right treatment. Only a vet can correctly assess the state of your cat's health and suggest an appropriate intervention or treatment.

At Marly & Dan, we understand the importance of looking after our cats and preventing health problems such as vomiting. That's why we've developed a range of treats specially designed for digestion, to complement their diet and help them stay in peak condition. Our products are made with quality ingredients and are adapted to the specific needs of your feline companions.

Ultimately, the love and care we show our cats is reflected in their health and happiness.