- Blog
- 07 Aug 2026
Indigestion In cats
Indigestion or an upset stomach in cats manifests as vomiting, regurgitation, a decreased appetite, excessive drooling, or lethargy resulting from irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. Common triggers range from mild dietary indiscretion—such as eating table scraps or changing food too quickly—to underlying issues like hairballs, parasites, or inflammation like Gastritis in Cats. Mild episodes often resolve within 24 hours, but persistent signs require professional evaluation to rule out serious conditions
Main Signs of Indigestion
- Vomiting or Regurgitation: Active heaving of food/bile versus passive sliding up of undigested material.
- Lip Licking and Drooling: Common indicators of sudden nausea.
- Behavioral Shifts: Lethargy, hiding, or reluctance to be picked up around the belly.
- Appetite Loss: Refusing regular meals or showing reluctance to swallow.
Frequent Causes
|
Category |
Common Triggers |
|
Dietary |
Sudden food changes, rich table scraps, lactose intolerance |
|
Physical |
Hairballs stuck in the throat or minor Acid Reflux in Cats |
|
Medical |
Parasites, Gastroenteritis in Cats, or food sensitivities |
|
Emergency |
Ingesting toxic items/plants or linear foreign objects like string |
When to See a Veterinarian
Consult a veterinarian immediately if your cat displays signs of severe pain, cannot keep water down, vomits blood, or if symptoms last longer than 24 hours—especially for young kittens or senior cats who dehydrate rapidly.
If you can share how long your cat has had these symptoms and what they might have eaten recently, I can help you determine whether it is safe to try home management or if a vet visit is needed.