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Why is my cat throwing up hairballs and food? Allergy or intolerance?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Colorpoint Shorthair | Male | neutered | 6 years and 10 months old | 12 lbs

My cat has been throwing up hairballs with whole food pieces regularly once or twice a week for a while now. From my research it could be caused by food allergy or food intolerance. I cant seem to figure out which one it is because the only symptom I've seen is throwing up.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on June 5th, 2017

The hairballs themselves can also cause vomiting. Try a hairball paste such a Laxatone or PetroMalt. Daily brushing may also decrease the incidence of hairballs. If the vomiting persists, have Max examined by your veterinarian. Discuss allergy testing and food elimination trials with your vet to rule out allergies or food sensitivities.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 5th, 2017

    Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. This could be a hairball problem, which could be causing the infrequent vomiting episodes. I would recommend adding in a hairball supplement such as feline laxatone. If this does not help, I would recommend switching to a different food and adding in a probiotic such as Purina Fortiflora for cats. If this does not help and the vomiting persists or worsens, I would recommend having a veterinarian take a look at Todd for further treatment and diagnostic recommendations. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.

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