Cat Vomiting White Foam: An Examination by Kathryn Heigel-Meyer, DVM, Reviewed by Brittany Kleszynski, DVM on July 31, 2025, Published on July 23, 2024
Cats, known for their fastidious grooming and often mysterious behaviour, can sometimes present with an unusual issue - vomiting white foam. This article aims to help cat owners understand the causes, symptoms, and when to seek professional help.
If you suspect your cat has ingested a foreign object, it's crucial to consult an emergency veterinarian immediately. It's equally important to ensure that a cat's environment is free of small objects that they might ingest by cat-proofing your home to prevent accidental ingestion of foreign objects and toxins.
An empty stomach can cause cats to vomit white foam, typically seen in the morning or when the food bowl is not refilled. However, if this occurs repeatedly or is accompanied by other symptoms, it's time to seek veterinary attention.
Cats who are vomiting with other symptoms, including diarrhea, constipation, lethargy, poor appetite, weight loss, increased drinking or changes in urination, should be seen by a vet as soon as possible. Persistent vomiting can be a sign of a more serious underlying issue, such as pancreatitis, kidney or liver disease, or gastrointestinal infection.
Chronic medical conditions like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, cancer, and pancreatitis can also cause white foamy cat vomit. Intestinal parasites such as roundworms and hookworms can lead to gastrointestinal upset, resulting in white foamy vomit.
Gastroenteritis, or inflammation of the stomach and intestines, can also cause white foamy vomit. Foreign objects ingested by cats can cause blockages or irritations in their digestive tract and lead to white foamy vomit.
If a cat is persistently vomiting, it is an emergency, and veterinary attention should be sought immediately, especially if the cat is severely lethargic, not eating or drinking for more than 24 hours, and/or there is blood in the vomit.
For cats prone to hairballs, regular grooming and hairball control products can help reduce the frequency of vomiting. Special diets and supplements designed to manage hairballs can also be beneficial. If a cat is vomiting due to an empty stomach, feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help prevent the buildup of digestive fluids.
Encourage a cat to stay hydrated, especially if they are vomiting, by providing fresh, cool water and using a cat water fountain to entice them to drink more.
While occasional vomiting of white foam alone, especially on an empty stomach, may not be serious, persistent or severe vomiting always warrants veterinary evaluation to rule out underlying conditions.
Lastly, while humour about cat vomiting has been a part of human culture for centuries, it's essential to remember that feline vomiting is not always a laughing matter and should be taken seriously. If you notice any concerning symptoms, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian for guidance.
Mental health is crucial for cat owners, as chronic stress caused by a sick cat or worry about their wellbeing can lead to anxiety and depression. Regular veterinary check-ups and quick action when health issues arise can help improve a cat owner's mental health and overall well-being.
Cats' mental health should also be considered, as certain medical conditions, such as pancreatitis, kidney or liver disease, or gastrointestinal infection, can cause stress and discomfort. Providing a safe, cat-proofed environment and prompt treatment for any health issues can help reduce stress and promote a healthy, happy cat.
