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My cat is vomiting yellow foam and food. When should I call the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | 1 year old | 12 lbs

My cat has been vomiting today. The vomit is yellowish and foamy. Partially digested food. No foreign objects or hair balls seen. There were bowel movements in litterbox. I removed food temporarily for rest of day and refilled water bowl. At what point should I call up the vet? Is it ok to wait a day or so to see if it clears up on its own?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 31st, 2017

I wanted to add, since you didn't mention if he has been urinating or not - one possible cause of vomiting in male cats is a urinary obstruction, which is a medical emergency if it occurs. If he hasn't urinated in the past 24 hours, or if he is straining in the litter box or seems painful when you touch his belly, I would take him to the vet right away as this is a problem that requires immediate treatment.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    Poor Leo! It is possible for cats to get a minor upset stomach occasionally, just like people. If he is acting fairly normal otherwise and the problem just started today, you could opt to withhold food for the next 12 hours and see if the vomiting resolves on its own. If he continues to vomit throughout the day even if his stomach is empty, or if he develops other symptoms such as acting lethargic or painful, then I would recommend taking him to the vet for an exam, as these can be signs of a more serious problem that needs treatment.

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