Best Cat Food for Cats That Throw Up in 2024: Nourishment Without the Upset

For many cat owners, frequent vomiting in their pets is both a common and concerning issue. It’s crucial to understand that while occasional vomiting may not indicate a serious problem, frequent incidents can be a sign of dietary intolerance, sensitivity, or health issues. Choosing the right cat food is essential in reducing these episodes and improving the overall well-being of your feline friend.

Understanding Why Cats Throw Up

• Common Causes of Vomiting in Cats: Cats may throw up for various reasons, including hairballs, dietary intolerance or allergies, eating too quickly, or stress. Certain medical conditions like gastrointestinal disorders can also lead to vomiting.
• When to See a Vet: If your cat is vomiting frequently or showing other symptoms like lethargy, diarrhea, or weight loss, it’s important to consult a veterinarian to rule out serious health issues.

Key Features of Cat Food for Sensitive Stomachs

• Easily Digestible Ingredients: Foods with simple, highly digestible ingredients can be gentler on a cat’s stomach. Look for foods with quality protein sources such as chicken, turkey, or fish, and limited filler ingredients.
• Grain-Free and Novel Protein Options: Some cats may be sensitive to common proteins or grains. Trying a grain-free diet or a novel protein source (like duck, venison, or rabbit) can sometimes alleviate vomiting.
• Added Fiber for Hairball Control: For cats prone to hairballs, a diet with increased fiber can help. Fiber aids in the smooth passage of hair through the digestive system.

Top Cat Food Brands for Cats That Throw Up

1. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Cat Food: Formulated for easy digestion and to nourish skin.
   • Pros: Prebiotic fiber for gut health, made with high-quality ingredients.
   • Cons: Contains grains, which may not suit all cats.
   • Price: Around $26 for a 7-lb bag.
   • Availability: Widely available in pet stores and online.
2. Blue Buffalo Sensitive Stomach Natural Adult Dry Cat Food: A natural diet formulated for cats with sensitive stomachs.
   • Pros: Real chicken as the first ingredient, contains FOS prebiotics.
   • Cons: Some cats may not find the flavor appealing.
   • Price: Approximately $35 for a 15-lb bag.
   • Availability: Most pet stores and online.
3. Royal Canin Digestive Care Dry Cat Food: Specifically designed for cats with sensitive stomachs.
   • Pros: Ring-shaped kibble encourages slower eating, highly digestible proteins.
   • Cons: Higher price point, contains corn.
   • Price: About $30 for a 6-lb bag.
   • Availability: Pet stores and online.
4. Purina ONE Sensitive Systems Adult Dry Cat Food: A diet that supports sensitive stomachs.
   • Pros: Real turkey is the first ingredient, easy to digest.
   • Cons: Includes corn and wheat.
   • Price: Around $24 for a 16-lb bag.
   • Availability: Supermarkets, pet stores, and online.
5. Iams Proactive Health Sensitive Stomach Adult Cat Food: Made for adult cats with digestive issues.
   • Pros: Contains prebiotics and beet pulp for healthy digestion.
   • Cons: May not be suitable for all food sensitivities.
   • Price: Approximately $20 for a 7-lb bag.
   • Availability: Easily found in most pet stores and online.

Feeding Strategies for Cats Prone to Vomiting

• Small, Frequent Meals: Feeding smaller portions more frequently can help prevent vomiting by not overwhelming the digestive system.
• Slow Feeding Solutions: Using slow feeder bowls or puzzle feeders can help cats that eat too quickly, reducing the chances of vomiting.

Additional Dietary Considerations

• Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes: Supplements like probiotics can aid in maintaining a healthy gut flora, potentially reducing vomiting caused by digestive upset.
• Hydration: Adequate water intake is essential. Wet food can be beneficial for increasing hydration, which can aid digestion and reduce vomiting.

FAQs About Cat Food for Cats That Throw Up

1. How can I tell if a new diet is helping my cat? Look for a reduction in the frequency of vomiting episodes and an improvement in overall behavior and appetite.
2. Are there any specific ingredients I should avoid? It can vary depending on the cat, but common irritants include artificial additives, some grains, and certain protein sources.
3. How quickly should I transition my cat to a new food? A gradual transition over 7-10 days is recommended to allow the cat’s digestive system to adjust.
4. Can wet food help reduce vomiting? Yes, wet food is often easier to digest and can be beneficial for cats prone to vomiting.
5. Should I be worried if my cat vomits occasionally? Occasional vomiting might not be a concern, but if it’s frequent or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s best to consult a vet.

Conclusion

Selecting the right cat food is vital for cats that frequently throw up. A diet tailored to their digestive needs can make a significant difference in reducing vomiting incidents and improving their overall health. Regular veterinary check-ups and careful monitoring of your cat’s diet are key to managing this issue effectively.