Cat owners sometimes blame a new cat food when their cat immediately throws it back up after eating. The connection seems logical, but other factors could point to a different cause rooted in behavior.
Regurgitation
Regurgitation, or expelling swallowed food through the mouth, can occur if your cat really loves a new food or competes with other pets in your home at mealtime.Here’s what happens: a cat eats so fast that she swallows food without chewing and ingests a lot of air, too. Large pieces of food and air in the stomach will likely come back up. If your cat throws up a whole kibble shortly after eating, regurgitation is likely to blame.
Tasty Tips
What to do
If you suspect your cat is eating too fast and regurgitating, take these steps to reduce the risk.
- Feed smaller meals more often until you notice a slow down in eating speed.
- Rather than using a deep dish, place the cat food on a wide, flat surface, like a cookie sheet. This spreads out the kibbles and forces your cat to take more time eating. It also prevents big mouthfuls of food.
Transitioning
Transitioning to a new cat food too quickly can also cause your cat to throw up. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old food over a seven-day period to avoid discomfort.
If your cat is showing signs of discomfort after eating or vomits intensely or constantly, see your veterinarian immediately. It’s always a good idea to consult your vet before changing cat foods.
Related articles
Helping a Cat with Sensitive Skin
Discover how to identify cat sensitive skin and what you can do to help your cat thrive from head to paw.
Brushing & Food: Keys to Maintaining Your Cat's Oral Health
Brushing your cat's teeth is just as important as brushing your own. Learn signs or oral health problems in your cat and how to avoid them.
Weight Gain in Your Cat & How You Can Help
Learn the different factors that might be contributing to your cat's weight gain, and how bigger doesn't always mean better.
Helping Your Overweight Cat Lose Weight
What is the best food for an overweight cat? Learn all about weight control food for cats, including what's in it and how it works.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.