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My cat is throwing up undigested food. When should I feed her or vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 3 years old | 8 lbs

I noticed, since last night, that she couldn’t keep her food down. She vomited undigested food every time she ate. She doesn’t seem to have diarrhea and otherwise seems ok. Do I go with blended diet for her tonight with small amount of water? Or no food tonight but only small amount of water? Since I noticed symptoms last night, when do I need to take her to the vet? When does it become emergency?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on January 1st, 2021

These signs could be compatible with an inflammation infection of the gastrointestinal system and surrounding organs (like pancreas and liver). As a first approach, I would suggest to start feeding with a bland diet based on boiled chicken and rice in small portion every 6 hours for the following 48hours. Then gradually reintroduce the normal diet over 5 days. I would definitely recommend a veterinary check up if the signs persist in the next 12 hours or you notice lethargy or inappetence. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 26th, 2017

    Poor kitty! I would not withhold water, but definitely withhold food. Keep her indoors if she is allowed outdoors, and keep her warm and as quiet as possible. If she doesn't vomit from you withholding food overnight, I would withhold it for another 12 hours, then feed a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken (no bones) in small amounts several times a day for a couple of days. Then slowly add back in her normal diet. If she vomits the bland diet, develops diarrhea, stops drinking water, starts vomiting water, or becomes very lethargic, she will need to see a vet right away. If she continues to vomit in the absence of food overnight, then I would call the vet in the morning and have her seen for an exam.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 18th, 2019

    Poor Church! I can give you a home remedy to see if that helps. I recommend withholding food for 12-24 hours, then feed a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken (no bones) in small amounts several times a day for a couple of days. Then slowly add back in her normal diet. If the vomiting continues in the absence of food, she vomits the bland diet, develops diarrhea, stops drinking water, starts vomiting water, or becomes very lethargic, she will need to see a vet right away. Best of luck.

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