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My long-haired cat is throwing up hairballs and mostly-digested dry food (no blood or mucus). I thought a hairball now and then was normal, but this is the 3rd time she's had one in the last month. She doesn't have a signal (drooling, etc) that indicates she's about to throw up. She's an older indoor/outdoor cat and the second time she threw up lizard chunks also came out with it. I give her Lax'aire every so often (about once a week or so), but now I'm not sure if it's helping or not.

My long-haired cat is throwing up hairballs and mostly-digested dry food (no blood or mucus). I thought a hairball now and then was normal, but this is the 3rd time she's had one in the last month. She doesn't have a signal (drooling, etc) that indicates she's about to throw up. She's an older indoor/outdoor cat and the second time she threw up lizard chunks also came out with it. I give her Lax'aire every so often (about once a week or so), but now I'm not sure if it's helping or not.

Updated On July 12th, 2017

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed

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Answered By Menolly Cote, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

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While vomiting hair occasionally is normal for some cats the increased frequency you have described is concerning. It is possible at Midnight is grooming more due to a seasonal coat shedding or she may have some underlying intestinal irritation contributing to the vomiting. Cats that hunt are at higher risk for parasites and this can also contribute to vomiting. If the increased frequency of vomiting continues or if you notice any other signs such as decreased appetite, lethargy or weight loss, I would recommend that you have her seen by your veterinarian. They may recommend checking a stool sample for parasites and possibly blood work to rule out other potential causes for vomiting such as kidney disease or thyroid problems.

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