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Why is my cat throwing up white foam, dry heaving, and not eating?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

My cat is puking a white foam constantly, and she is acting very strange. She’s dry heaving and can’t get anything up at certain times. She hasn’t eaten in over a day. I’m very worried. What’s wrong with her?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 27th, 2019

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Kami. She needs to see a veterinarian as it sounds like she has had a significant amount of vomiting. She is likely dehydrated by now. Depending on her exam findings, diagnostic tests such as blood work and x-rays may be discussed. A treatment plan, including fluids to rehydrate her, will be formulated. She could have eaten a foreign object that is causing an obstruction in gastrointestinal tract. Intestinal infections or generalized inflammation can cause vomiting as well. Older cats are more prone to kidney and thyroid disorders. Unfortunately, there are many possibilities depending on her age and history. I hope this information helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on February 1st, 2020
This is true but it can also be an illness. Given she is an older cat, it can also be a sign of something like diabetes, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or cancer. That's why she really needs to see a vet asap.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on August 18th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Vomiting can occur from many conditions such as foreign body ingestion and obstruction, pancreatitis, gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, among other possibilities. I recommend that you have Sunshine evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. This will likely require bloodwork and abdominal imaging in terms of diagnostics. Treatment would be based on findings. At the very least your veterinarian could start her on medications to make her feel better. In the meantime, keep water available at all times to try to prevent dehydration. Good luck and have a good day!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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