Table of Contents
📝 Introduction
Is your cat having unexpected bathroom accidents or throwing up right after eating? Occasional digestive issues in cats may seem harmless, but frequent diarrhea or vomiting is often a sign of something deeper. As a cat parent, it’s important to understand when to worry, what’s causing the issue, and how to respond quickly — at home or with your vet’s help.
In this guide, we’ll explore what causes cat diarrhea and vomiting, how to treat it safely, and what you can do to prevent it from happening again.
🔹 What Causes Diarrhea and Vomiting in Cats?
Cats can suffer from digestive upset for many reasons, ranging from minor diet changes to serious health conditions. The most common causes of cat diarrhea and vomiting include:
- 🥩 Sudden diet changes
Switching your cat’s food too quickly can upset their stomach. Always transition gradually over 7–10 days. - 🥛 Food intolerance or allergy
Dairy, low-quality fillers, or artificial ingredients may cause inflammation in sensitive cats. - 🐛 Parasites
Roundworms, hookworms, and Giardia are common in kittens and outdoor cats, often causing diarrhea and vomiting. - 🧪 Infections
Bacterial or viral infections such as feline panleukopenia or salmonella can result in severe symptoms. - 🧠 Stress or anxiety
Cats are sensitive to changes in environment or routine, which can trigger vomiting or loose stools. - ⚠️ Toxic substances
Some household plants, medications, or human foods (like onions or chocolate) can lead to sudden gastrointestinal distress.
In some cases, diarrhea and vomiting occur together, especially when the underlying cause affects the entire digestive system.
Some causes include bacterial infections, parasites, stress, or toxic substances. Learn more in this detailed guide from VCA Hospitals on feline gastroenteritis.
🔹 When Should You Worry?
While occasional vomiting or soft stools may not be cause for alarm, there are times when immediate action is necessary. Contact your veterinarian if you notice:
- Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24–36 hours
- Blood in the stool or vomit
- Lethargy or weakness
- Refusal to eat or drink for over a day
- Signs of dehydration (sunken eyes, dry gums, skin that doesn’t snap back)
- Vomiting white foam repeatedly
- Sudden weight loss or dramatic behavior changes
These symptoms may signal something more serious, such as intestinal blockage, poisoning, pancreatitis, or organ dysfunction. Prompt treatment can save your cat from unnecessary suffering — and save you from higher vet bills later.
🔹 Self-Monitoring at Home
Before rushing to the vet, observe your cat carefully. Note the frequency, color, and consistency of the vomit or stool. Is there blood or foam? Has your cat stopped eating or drinking? Is it hiding more than usual?
Keep track of these signs for at least 12–24 hours. In mild cases, your cat may bounce back on its own — but if symptoms persist or worsen, don’t delay seeking help.
🔹 Home Remedies for Mild Cases
For cats with only occasional vomiting or soft stools — but no other worrying symptoms — you may be able to manage the situation at home:
- 🥣 Withhold food for 8–12 hours (but not water) to give the stomach time to rest.
- 🐓 Reintroduce bland food: Start with small portions of plain boiled chicken or prescription bland diets.
- 🎃 Pumpkin for cats: A teaspoon of plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling) can help firm up stools thanks to its natural fiber.
Plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling) can help firm up stools thanks to its natural fiber. For ongoing digestive care, explore foods for sensitive stomachs that pair well with gentle ingredients like pumpkin.
For more home care tips and when to escalate to veterinary care, see this guide on treating cat diarrhea by PetMD.
If you’re looking for a pre-portioned, cat-safe pumpkin option, try Weruva Pumpkin Patch Up — free of sugar and fillers.
- 🧴 Add probiotics: Supplements formulated for cats can support healthy gut flora and reduce symptoms.
You can also try adding a probiotic supplement to restore your cat’s healthy gut bacteria. A trusted option like
Purina FortiFlora for Cats is often recommended by vets for digestive balance.
- 💧 Keep them hydrated: Offer water or unflavored Pedialyte to prevent dehydration.
If your cat improves within 24 hours, return to their regular food gradually. But if vomiting or diarrhea resumes, it’s time to call your vet.
🔹 When to See a Veterinarian
Some cases of vomiting or diarrhea require medical attention, even if the symptoms seem mild at first. Seek veterinary care if:
- Symptoms persist beyond 24–36 hours
- There’s blood in the stool or vomit
- Your cat is lethargic, won’t eat, or becomes withdrawn
- Your cat is a kitten, senior, or has a chronic illness
- You suspect ingestion of a toxic substance or foreign object
Your vet may recommend blood work, x-rays, or stool tests to determine the root cause and suggest appropriate treatment — whether it’s medication, hydration therapy, or a change in diet.
Some cats benefit from a protein-rich, easy-to-digest formula. See our high protein cat food guide for recommended options.
🔹 How to Prevent Diarrhea and Vomiting in the Future
Prevention is always better than treatment — and when it comes to your cat’s digestion, consistency is key. Here’s how to help your cat stay healthy:
- 🍽️ Stick to a consistent diet: Avoid frequent food changes and use gradual transitions when switching brands or types.
- 🧼 Keep food and water bowls clean: Wash daily to prevent bacterial buildup.
- 🐾 Limit access to plants, human food, and trash: Many cases of vomiting come from accidental ingestion.
- 💊 Use vet-recommended dewormers and parasite preventives, especially for outdoor cats.
- 😺 Reduce stress: Cats are creatures of habit. Sudden changes in environment or routine may trigger gastrointestinal issues.
- 🦠 Add digestive support: Consider adding probiotics or pumpkin for cats with sensitive stomachs.
Cats with sensitive digestion may benefit from switching to Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin, specially formulated to support gut health and reduce flare-ups.
In addition to food, omega-3 supplements may support gut and immune function. Learn more in our guide to fish oil for cats.
A healthy gut equals a healthier, happier cat.
🔹 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓1. Why is my cat throwing up white foam?
White foam vomiting often happens when a cat’s stomach is empty. It may also indicate acid buildup, hairballs, mild gastritis, or even early signs of more serious digestive issues. If your cat is throwing up white foam frequently, especially on an empty stomach, it’s time to consult your vet.
To understand the types of vomiting and when to worry, check this VCA article on cat vomiting.
❓2. Can pumpkin help with cat diarrhea?
Yes! Plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is rich in fiber and helps regulate digestion. Just a teaspoon mixed into your cat’s food can firm up loose stools and support gut health. It’s a safe, natural option often recommended by vets for mild cat diarrhea.
❓3. What causes diarrhea in cats most often?
The most common causes include sudden diet changes, food allergies, parasites, bacterial infections, and stress. Outdoor cats are also more likely to pick up parasites or ingest contaminated substances. If diarrhea lasts more than 24 hours, see your vet.
❓4. When is vomiting and diarrhea an emergency?
If your cat is showing signs like lethargy, blood in stool or vomit, refusal to eat, or repeated vomiting, especially when combined with diarrhea, seek veterinary care immediately. Cats can become dehydrated very quickly — don’t wait if symptoms worsen.
🔹 Final Thoughts
Occasional tummy trouble happens to every cat — but frequent vomiting or diarrhea should never be ignored. Understanding what causes digestive issues and knowing how to respond early can make all the difference in your cat’s comfort and recovery.
If symptoms persist, always consult your vet. And don’t forget: simple steps like consistent feeding, clean bowls, and digestive support (like probiotics or pumpkin) can go a long way in keeping your cat’s gut happy.
🐾 Got a sensitive cat? Explore our favorite gentle food options and probiotic supplements in our recommended products section.
