So when should you worry about your vomiting cat? If the vomiting increases in frequency or your cat is losing weight, then a trip to the vet is indicated.

A simple dietary intolerance could be the cause and a special hypoallergenic diet may be prescribed.  Other causes of vomiting usually require in-depth diagnosis and treatment. 

Diagnostic tests may include blood testing, xray and usually ultrasound of the stomach and small intestine. 

If thickening of the stomach and/or small intestinal wall is found, then one of two diagnoses is possible; inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or lymphoma. 

Pathological classification of a tissue biopsy is required to determine which is present and to what extent.  This information is essential for an appropriate treatment plan and prognosis.

Vomiting hairballs can be a common occurrence in some cat households.  This in itself is not an issue but can mask another condition. 

IBD and lymphoma slow down the movement of food (and hair) through the digestive tract and hairballs can form as a result.  If your cat is not long-haired or is a poor groomer and still suffers from hairballs, or vomiting of hairballs occurs more than twice a month, a vet check is appropriate. 

If deemed to be purely a hairball issue, there are specific diets and medication to assist in making hair easier to pass through the digestive tract.

So please do not overlook your vomiting cat and if you are concerned, seek veterinary advice, even if it is only for peace of mind that your cat is happy and healthy.