What Is Cat Regurgitation? Vet-Approved Tips & Differences From Vomiting

While we’d all like our cats to be happy and healthy day in and out, our pets occasionally feel less than wonderful. Cats sometimes have off days, which are often accompanied by tummy problems, and it can be quite worrying when a beloved cat starts having trouble keeping their food down. Before determining how to help your cat, it’s essential to understand the difference between regurgitation and vomiting.

Both result in cats bringing up food after eating, but the two processes differ. Regurgitation involves the esophagus and occurs when cats expel food before it has reached the stomach. Regurgitated food often comes out in a tubular shape and is accompanied by saliva. Cats vomit food that’s in the stomach, and the vomit often includes digestive fluids.

How Can I Tell if My Cat Is Vomiting or Regurgitating?

Distinguishing between regurgitation and vomiting can be tricky. However, there are several key differences between the two processes.

When Should I Contact a Veterinarian?

If your cat is healthy and only regurgitates once a month or less, possibly after eating too quickly or while passing a hairball, there’s likely nothing to be worried about. Contact your veterinarian if your kitty starts regurgitating more frequently or shows signs of illness, such as fatigue, weight loss, lethargy, or hiding. Contact your vet for guidance immediately if you suspect your cat has consumed something problematic.

And don’t be afraid to ask for help if you can’t tell the difference between vomiting and regurgitation. Consider taking a picture of what your cat produces to show your veterinarian. A video is even better for diagnostic purposes if you remember to grab your phone in time.

Remember to write down how often your cat appears to be having problems and when the issue started. Note what your cat eats and how long they usually start having problems after meals. Let your veterinarian know about any behavioral changes you observe as well.

What Causes Feline Regurgitation?

Feline regurgitation has several causes. In most instances, consistent or multiple incidences of regurgitation in a month are not considered normal. In such instances, the cause for regurgitation is an abnormality or condition affecting your cat's esophagus. In other instances, regurgitation is often a stand-alone episode, often associated with your cat's eating habits.

There are many conditions and ailments that can lead to regurgitation. These are some of the potential causes for your cat's regurgitation habits.:

Final Thoughts

Feline regurgitation is a relatively common occurrence. It’s usually nothing to be concerned about if it only happens occasionally. But contact your veterinarian right away if the problem starts occurring more frequently or your pet begins to show other signs of illness, such as lethargy, weight loss, or lack of appetite.

Call your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your cat has eaten a button, rubber band, or anything else that could cause an obstruction. Feline regurgitation can also be related to inflammatory and endocrine conditions, making the proper diagnosis an absolute must to ensure cats are treated appropriately.

Featured Image Credit: Nils Jacobi, Shutterstock