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 he or 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.
What to do
If you suspect your cat is eating too fast and regurgitating, take these steps to reduce the risk.
Tasty Tips
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 products
Oral Care Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Oral Care Adult Cat Food with Chicken contains clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build up.
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Hill's Science Plan Adult Sterilised Cat Dry Food with Chicken is specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology. It is a precisely balanced nutrition, tailored to meet the needs of sterilised cats, to help keep sthem lean & healthy.
Kitten & Mother Tender Mousse Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Kitten & Mother Tender Mousse Cat Food with Chicken & Turkey is a complete premium pet food for kittens from weaning until 1 year old and for pregnant and nursing cats. Formulated with chicken, turkey and other specially selected ingredients to support gut health and optimal growth. It comes in a soft mousse texture they'll love.
Hypoallergenic Dry Cat Food
HILL'S SCIENCE PLAN Hypoallergenic Adult cat food with egg & insect protein is a complete pet food for adult cat 1–6 years old. It's formulated for cats with delicate skin and stomach, with limited high quality novel protein sources & no grain.
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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.