Cat Throwing Up Green Vomit: Causes and What To Do

Why Is My Cat Throwing Up Green Vomit?

When your cat throws up green vomit, it’s often a sign that bile has been expelled. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver, normally stored in the gallbladder, and released into the small intestine to help break down fats. If a cat vomits on an empty stomach, or if the digestive tract is irritated, the stomach may be empty of food, and the regurgitated substance will appear green due to the presence of bile. Understanding the common triggers for this occurrence is the first step towards addressing your cat's discomfort.

• Green vomit typically indicates bile in an empty stomach.
• Dietary indiscretion or eating grass are frequent culprits.
• Persistent or severe vomiting requires prompt veterinary attention.
• Observe other symptoms alongside vomiting for clues.

While a single instance might not be cause for alarm, repeated episodes or the presence of other concerning symptoms warrant immediate professional assessment. It’s crucial to distinguish between occasional, seemingly harmless regurgitation and a more serious health issue that needs veterinary intervention. This article aims to demystify the common reasons behind a cat throwing up green vomit and outline the appropriate actions to take.

Common Causes of Green Vomit in Cats

Several factors can lead to your cat expelling green vomit. Often, it's a direct result of what they've consumed or their immediate environment. Identifying these common culprits can help you manage the situation at home or provide your vet with valuable diagnostic information. The colour itself, predominantly green, points towards bile, which is present when the stomach is empty, or to ingested plant matter.

Ingestion of Grass or Plants

Cats are known to chew on grass, houseplants, or other vegetation. While sometimes this is to aid digestion or induce vomiting to clear hairballs, it can also lead to stomach upset. The green colour in the vomit is often directly from the ingested plant material. If your cat has a habit of raiding your houseplants or digging in the garden, this is a prime suspect. Some plants are toxic, so it’s vital to ensure your cat only has access to cat-safe greens, like specifically grown cat grass, or is prevented from accessing potentially harmful flora.

Empty Stomach and Bile

If your cat vomits after a period without food, such as first thing in the morning before breakfast, the vomit will likely contain bile and appear greenish. This is because the stomach is empty of food, and the bile from the digestive tract is regurgitated. This is sometimes referred to as bilious vomiting syndrome. While occasional occurrences might be normal, frequent instances suggest an issue with feeding schedules or underlying digestive sensitivity. Adjusting meal times or frequency might resolve this, but a vet should be consulted if it becomes a pattern.

Dietary Issues and Indiscretion

Sudden changes in diet, eating spoiled food, or consuming non-food items (like string or plastic) can irritate a cat's digestive system, leading to vomiting. If the irritant is green, such as a new green-coloured food or treat, or if bile is present, the vomit will appear green. Food allergies or intolerances can also manifest as vomiting, sometimes accompanied by other symptoms like loose bowels in cats. Carefully reviewing your cat's diet and recent food intake is a crucial diagnostic step.

Hairballs

Cats groom themselves meticulously, and ingested fur can accumulate in their stomach, forming a hairball. While hairballs are often expelled through vomiting, the vomit can contain bile and sometimes undigested food or grass, leading to a green appearance. If your cat is a long-haired breed or grooms excessively, hairballs are a more probable cause. Using an anti hairball cat food or regular grooming can help mitigate this issue. Sometimes, a cat coughing up furball is the only sign. If vomiting is frequent or includes blood, seek veterinary advice.

Underlying Health Conditions

More serious causes for a cat throwing up green vomit include gastrointestinal infections, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis, kidney disease, liver issues, or even foreign body obstruction. In these cases, the green vomit is usually a symptom of a larger problem. Always look for other signs such as lethargy, decreased appetite, dehydration, or cat has blood in poop. If your cat exhibits any of these secondary symptoms, or if vomiting is persistent, veterinary care is non-negotiable.

When To Seek Veterinary Advice

While occasional vomiting, especially on an empty stomach or after eating grass, might not be an emergency, there are clear indicators that you need to consult a veterinarian. The frequency, consistency, and accompanying symptoms are key factors in deciding whether to monitor at home or seek professional help. Your cat’s well-being depends on your prompt and accurate assessment of the situation.

Persistent or Frequent Vomiting

If your cat is vomiting more than once or twice within a 24-hour period, or if the vomiting occurs daily for several days, it’s a strong signal that something is wrong. Chronic vomiting can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, and electrolyte imbalances, which can be life-threatening. Don't delay in contacting your vet if this pattern emerges.

→ Loose Bowels in Cats: Causes, Treatments & When to See a Vet

Vomiting Blood or Other Abnormalities

Any vomit containing blood (which may appear bright red or dark brown, like coffee grounds) is a serious concern and requires immediate veterinary attention. Similarly, if the vomit contains foreign objects, is foul-smelling, or contains worms, seek professional help without delay. If your cat is throwing up water and it's accompanied by distress, it also warrants a vet visit.

Accompanying Symptoms

Vomiting is often a symptom of a larger health issue. If you observe any of the following signs in conjunction with your cat throwing up green vomit, you should seek veterinary advice promptly:

• Lethargy or unusual quietness
• Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
• Diarrhoea, or cat poop yellowish, or blood in faeces
• Dehydration (check for sunken eyes, dry gums, or loss of skin elasticity)
• Weight loss
• Difficulty breathing or coughing
• Signs of pain or distress
• Behavioural changes, such as hiding more than usual

If your cat is showing signs of illness, such as fever, abdominal pain, or if you suspect they ingested a toxic substance or a foreign object, immediate veterinary intervention is critical.

Age and Health Status

Young kittens and senior cats are more vulnerable to the effects of dehydration and illness. If your cat falls into one of these age groups, it’s generally advisable to err on the side of caution and consult a vet sooner rather than later, even if symptoms appear mild.

If your cat is vomiting, gently try to collect a sample of the vomit for your vet to examine. This can provide crucial diagnostic clues about the cause, such as undigested food, bile, foreign material, or blood.

What Your Vet Will Do

When you bring your cat to the veterinary clinic because they are throwing up green vomit, the vet will conduct a thorough examination to pinpoint the cause. This process involves a combination of history taking, physical assessment, and potentially diagnostic tests. The goal is to provide an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan tailored to your cat's specific needs.

Medical History and Physical Examination

The veterinarian will begin by asking you detailed questions about your cat's symptoms, including when the vomiting started, how often it occurs, what the vomit looks like, your cat's diet, any recent changes, and other observed symptoms. A physical examination will follow, where the vet will check your cat's temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, hydration status, and palpate the abdomen for any tenderness, masses, or foreign objects. This initial assessment is fundamental in narrowing down the possibilities.

Diagnostic Tests

Depending on the findings from the history and physical exam, the vet may recommend several diagnostic tests:

• Blood Tests: Complete blood counts (CBC) and biochemical profiles can reveal information about organ function (kidneys, liver), detect infections, inflammation, and assess electrolyte levels.
• Urinalysis: This helps evaluate kidney function and detect urinary tract infections or other systemic diseases.
• Fecal Examination: To check for intestinal parasites, which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.
• X-rays (Radiographs): Useful for identifying foreign bodies, blockages, bone abnormalities, or signs of organ enlargement.
• Ultrasound: Provides detailed images of abdominal organs, allowing the vet to assess their structure and detect abnormalities like inflammation, tumours, or fluid build-up.
• Endoscopy: In some cases, a small camera is used to visualise the gastrointestinal tract, enabling biopsies to be taken for further analysis.

Diagnosis and Treatment Plan

Once the diagnostic tests are completed and analysed, the vet can usually establish a diagnosis. Treatment will vary significantly depending on the underlying cause. For example, a simple case of dietary indiscretion might be managed with a bland diet and possibly anti-nausea medication. In contrast, a foreign body obstruction would likely require surgery. For conditions like IBD or pancreatitis, a long-term management plan involving medication and dietary changes will be prescribed. It’s essential to follow your vet's instructions meticulously for the best outcome for your cat.

Your veterinarian is your most trusted resource for diagnosing and treating your cat's vomiting, offering tailored advice based on professional expertise and your cat's unique health profile.

The veterinary examination is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of vomiting in cats.

Home Care and Prevention Strategies

Once your cat has been diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian, or if the vomiting was a singular, mild event, you can implement home care and preventative strategies to minimise future occurrences. These measures focus on diet, environment, and routine care. Proactive steps can significantly improve your cat’s digestive health and overall quality of life.

→ Cat Trying to Cough Up Hairball But Can't: Causes and Solutions

Dietary Management

Feed your cat a high-quality, balanced diet appropriate for their age and health status. If dietary changes were recommended, stick to the new feeding plan. For cats prone to vomiting, smaller, more frequent meals can sometimes be beneficial compared to one or two large meals. Avoid sudden switches in food; transition gradually over a week to 10 days. If your vet suggests a special diet for sensitive stomachs or for managing hairballs, adhere to it strictly. Ensure constant access to fresh, clean water to prevent dehydration, especially if vomiting was an issue.

Managing Hairballs

Regular grooming is paramount, especially for long-haired cats, to reduce the amount of fur they ingest. Brushing daily can remove loose hairs before they are swallowed. Consider introducing a hairball remedy or a specially formulated food that aids in the passage of hair through the digestive system. If your cat is having trouble passing a furball, or if the cat is not pooping in the litter box regularly, it might be a sign of a more significant blockage.

Environmental Safety

Keep toxic houseplants and garden plants out of reach. If your cat enjoys chewing on greenery, provide safe, cat-specific grass. Secure rubbish bins to prevent your cat from scavenging for spoiled food. Ensure that any household items that could be ingested, such as string, rubber bands, or small toys, are stored away safely. Supervise your cat, especially if they are prone to pica (eating non-food items).

Feeding Schedule and Access

Establish a consistent feeding schedule. If your cat tends to vomit on an empty stomach, consider splitting their daily food allowance into multiple smaller meals throughout the day. This can help keep their stomach from becoming entirely empty and reduce the likelihood of bile reflux. If your cat eats too quickly, consider using a slow-feeder bowl to encourage more mindful eating, which can prevent vomiting shortly after meals.

Monitoring and Observation

Keep a close eye on your cat's behaviour, appetite, and litter box habits. Any significant changes should be noted and discussed with your vet if they persist. Early detection of new symptoms can lead to quicker intervention and better outcomes. If vomiting recurs, recall the details of the previous episode and any changes you've made since then, as this information can be valuable for your vet.

If your cat experiences vomiting after eating, try offering a small amount of food, such as a tablespoon or two, and wait 15-20 minutes. If they keep that down, offer another small portion. This 'little and often' approach can help their stomach tolerate food again after an episode.

Preventing further episodes of vomiting involves careful management of diet, environment, and grooming routines.

Understanding Bile and Vomit Colour

The colour of your cat's vomit can offer significant clues about what's happening internally. While green vomit is often associated with bile, other colours can indicate different issues. Understanding these variations helps you communicate more effectively with your veterinarian and provides context for why your cat might be unwell.

Green Vomit

As discussed, green vomit typically signifies the presence of bile, which is a yellowish-green fluid. This occurs when the stomach is empty, allowing bile to travel from the small intestine back into the stomach and then be expelled. Ingested grass or green-coloured food can also contribute to the green hue. If your cat is otherwise well and this is an isolated incident after an empty stomach, it's less concerning than persistent vomiting.

Yellow Vomit

Yellow vomit is also predominantly bile. It's often a sign that the stomach is empty and has been for some time. If your cat vomits yellow liquid, it's essentially concentrated bile. This is frequently seen in cats with bilious vomiting syndrome, particularly if meals are spaced too far apart. The intensity of the yellow can sometimes indicate the concentration of bile.

→ Cat Vomiting Froth: Causes, Solutions & Prevention

Clear Vomit

Clear vomit, often described as foamy, usually consists of stomach fluids and saliva. If your cat is throwing up clear liquid and seems fine otherwise, it might be due to drinking water too quickly, a mild stomach upset, or even hairballs starting to form. However, repeated instances of clear vomiting, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, should be investigated.

White Vomit

White, foamy vomit can be caused by several factors. It may be mucus from the stomach lining, indicating irritation or inflammation. It can also occur if a cat has been vomiting clear fluid and their stomach is now empty, leading to frothy secretions. Sometimes, it can be an indication of hairballs being expelled.

Vomit Containing Food

When vomit contains undigested food, it typically means the cat vomited shortly after eating. This could be due to eating too quickly, a sudden change in diet, food intolerance, or a physical blockage preventing food from moving through the digestive tract. The colour of the food particles will reflect the food's original colour, potentially mixed with bile or stomach fluids.

Vomit Containing Blood

Blood in vomit is always a cause for concern. Bright red blood indicates fresh bleeding, while dark brown or black material resembling coffee grounds suggests digested blood, meaning the bleeding has occurred higher up in the digestive tract and has been exposed to stomach acid. Any sign of blood in your cat's vomit necessitates an urgent trip to the veterinarian. This could be a sign of ulcers, internal injuries, or other serious conditions.

Understanding vomit colour is an important observational tool when assessing your cat's health.

What Constitutes Normal Regurgitation vs. Vomiting?

It can be challenging for owners to differentiate between normal regurgitation and problematic vomiting in cats, especially when the outcome looks similar. Understanding the physiological differences is key to correctly interpreting your cat's behaviour and knowing when to seek help. While both involve expelling material from the body, the process and underlying causes differ significantly.

Regurgitation: The Passive Expulsion

Regurgitation is a passive process where food or liquid is expelled from the oesophagus, usually shortly after eating. It typically occurs without the heaving, retching, or abdominal contractions associated with vomiting. The material regurgitated is often undigested food that has a tubular or conical shape, reflecting the oesophagus. Cats may cough or gag before regurgitating. Because it comes from the oesophagus, regurgitated material typically does not contain bile or stomach acid, and it usually lacks the strong smell of vomit. It's often seen in cats with oesophageal issues, such as megaesophagus or strictures, or simply if they eat too quickly.

Vomiting: The Active Expulsion

Vomiting, on the other hand, is an active, forceful expulsion of stomach contents. It is preceded by signs of nausea, such as drooling, lip-licking, pacing, and abdominal heaving. The cat will typically hunch their body and make forceful abdominal contractions to expel the material. The vomit itself often smells foul and acidic, frequently containing bile (giving it a yellow or green hue), stomach fluids, and partially digested food. If your cat is vomiting, it indicates irritation or disease within the stomach or intestines.

Key Differences at a Glance

Here's a quick comparison to help you identify the difference:

If you are unsure whether your cat is regurgitating or vomiting, or if the behaviour is frequent, it is always best to consult your veterinarian. They can perform diagnostic tests to determine the cause, whether it's a simple matter of eating too fast or a more serious underlying medical condition that requires treatment. For example, if your cat has diarrhoea and is also vomiting, a vet visit is crucial to rule out serious infections or obstructions.

Differentiating regurgitation from vomiting is vital for understanding potential causes and appropriate responses.