Does your furry friend sometimes surprise you with a little “gift” on the carpet? It’s a common, yet frustrating, situation for many cat parents. You love your cat dearly, but those frequent hairballs or unexplained bouts of throwing up can be worrying and messy. It’s tough to figure out what’s causing it and even harder to know which cat food will actually help.
Choosing the right food for a cat that throws up can feel like a guessing game. You want to help your cat feel better, but the shelves are full of different brands and claims. What if you pick the wrong one and make things worse? This post is here to take the confusion out of the equation. We’ll explore why cats throw up and, most importantly, guide you through finding the best cat food to soothe their tummies.
By the end of this article, you’ll understand the common reasons behind a cat’s upset stomach and learn what ingredients to look for (and avoid!) in cat food. We’ll break down the options and help you make a confident choice that can lead to fewer clean-ups and a happier, healthier cat. Let’s dive in and discover how the right food can make a big difference.
Our Top 5 Cat Food For Cats That Throw Up Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cat Food For Cats That Throw Up Detailed Reviews
1. Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Rating: 8.9/10
Does your cat have a tummy that rumbles or skin that itches? Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Adult 1-6, Stomach & Skin Sensitivity Support, Dry Cat Food, Chicken & Rice, 3.5 lb Bag is made to help. This food offers a special mix of easy-to-digest food that helps calm upset tummies. It also helps cats with itchy skin feel better. You can trust this food to give your cat the nutrition it needs.
What We Like:
- It has just the right balance of ingredients that are easy for cats to digest.
- The food includes prebiotic fiber. This fiber feeds good bacteria in your cat’s gut. It helps keep their tummy healthy and balanced.
- It contains Omega-6 fatty acids and Vitamin E. These help make your cat’s coat shiny and healthy.
- Hill’s Science Diet is made in the USA. They use ingredients from all over the world that you can trust.
- Veterinarians in the US recommend Hill’s Pet Nutrition more than any other brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 3.5 lb bag might be gone quickly for owners of multiple cats.
- Some cats can be picky eaters, and it may take time to see if your cat likes the taste.
If you’re looking for food that supports your cat’s sensitive stomach and skin, this is a strong contender. It’s a veterinarian-recommended choice for a reason.
2. Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Natural Dry Food for Adult Cats
Rating: 8.8/10
If your feline friend struggles with tummy troubles, the Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Natural Dry Food for Adult Cats, Sensitive Stomach, Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 3-lb. Resealable Bag might be the answer. This food is specially crafted to be gentle on sensitive stomachs while still providing all the nutrition adult cats need. Real chicken is the star ingredient, making it a protein-rich meal that cats will love.
What We Like:
- REAL CHICKEN FIRST: Made in the USA, this food features high-quality chicken as the very first ingredient, giving your cat the protein they need.
- GENTLE ON THEIR STOMACH: It’s designed for sensitive stomachs, using prebiotic fiber to help support healthy digestion.
- IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPORT: The exclusive LifeSource Bits are packed with antioxidants to help boost your cat’s immune system.
- HEALTHY, WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: You won’t find any chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy in this recipe, just good, healthy ingredients.
- CONVENIENT PACKAGING: The resealable 3-lb bag keeps the food fresh and is easy to store.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the ingredients are great, some cats might find the texture or taste a bit different initially.
- For very picky eaters, introducing a new food can sometimes take a little patience.
Overall, Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Sensitive Stomach recipe offers a promising solution for cats with digestive sensitivities, focusing on quality ingredients and beneficial nutrients.
3. Purina Cat Chow Gentle Sensitive Stomach and Skin Dry Cat Food with Turkey – 13 lb. Bag
Rating: 9.0/10
Does your feline friend experience tummy troubles or have a sensitive coat? Purina Cat Chow Gentle Sensitive Stomach and Skin Dry Cat Food with Turkey is designed with their needs in mind. This 13 lb. bag offers a delicious and nourishing meal that helps support their digestive system and keep their skin healthy and their fur shining. It’s made with real turkey and a recipe that’s easy for sensitive cats to digest.
What We Like:
- Helps cats with sensitive stomachs feel better.
- Promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat with omega-6 fatty acids.
- Made with real, farm-raised turkey for a protein-rich meal.
- Easy to digest for cats with delicate digestive systems.
- No artificial colors or flavors, so you know exactly what you’re feeding your cat.
- Provides 100% complete and balanced nutrition with all 25 essential vitamins and minerals.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some cats can be picky eaters, and while turkey is a popular flavor, not all cats may enjoy it.
- The 13 lb. bag, while a good size, might be a bit large for households with only one cat or for those who prefer smaller, more frequent purchases.
This cat food is a fantastic option for cat parents looking for a gentle and nutritious diet. It’s a reliable choice that aims to keep your sensitive cat happy and healthy from the inside out.
4. Purina ONE Sensitive Stomach
Rating: 9.0/10
Is your feline friend dealing with tummy troubles or itchy skin? Purina ONE Sensitive Stomach, Sensitive Skin, Natural Dry Cat Food, +Plus Sensitive Skin and Stomach Formula in the 3.5 Lb. bag might be the solution you’ve been searching for. This specially crafted cat food focuses on gentle ingredients to help your cat feel their best, inside and out.
What We Like:
- Real turkey is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to build strong muscles and support a healthy heart.
- The easily digestible formula and added prebiotic fiber are great for cats with sensitive stomachs.
- Crunchy kibble with calcium helps promote strong teeth and healthy gums.
- Four antioxidant sources work together to boost your cat’s immune system.
- Deliciously crunchy bites offer a taste cats love, with no artificial flavors or preservatives.
- This cat food is made with care in Purina-owned facilities right here in the U.S.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 3.5 lb bag size might be a bit small for multi-cat households or very large cats, requiring frequent repurchases.
- While formulated for sensitivity, some very specific or severe sensitivities might still require veterinary consultation for dietary adjustments.
This Purina ONE formula aims to provide complete and balanced nutrition for cats needing a little extra gentle care. It’s a solid choice for owners looking to support their cat’s well-being with quality ingredients.
5. Blue Buffalo True Solutions Digestive Care Natural Dry Cat Food for Adult Cats
Rating: 8.9/10
Is your feline friend experiencing tummy troubles? The Blue Buffalo True Solutions Digestive Care Natural Dry Cat Food for Adult Cats, Chicken, 3.5-lb. Bag is designed to help. This high-protein food is recommended by vets to keep your cat’s digestion happy and their stool healthy. It uses a special prebiotic fiber that’s been proven to work. Plus, it’s made with real chicken as the very first ingredient, so your cat gets a delicious and nutritious meal.
What We Like:
- Vet-recommended formula for better digestion and stool quality.
- Made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient.
- Formulated by veterinarians and animal nutritionists.
- Free from corn, wheat, soy, and chicken by-product meals.
- Natural ingredients for wholesome nutrition.
What Could Be Improved:
- Packaging may vary, which can be a little confusing.
- Some cats might need time to adjust to a new food.
This Blue Buffalo Digestive Care cat food offers a natural and effective way to support your cat’s digestive health. It’s a great choice for pet parents seeking quality ingredients and veterinarian-approved nutrition.
Finding the Right Food for Your Vomiting Cat
It’s tough when your furry friend isn’t feeling well. If your cat frequently throws up, it’s a sign something isn’t right. Choosing the right cat food can make a big difference. This guide will help you find the best food to settle your cat’s tummy.
Key Features to Look For
- Digestible Ingredients: Foods with easily digestible proteins and carbohydrates are best. This means your cat’s body can absorb the nutrients without getting upset.
- Limited Ingredient Diets (LID): These foods have fewer ingredients. This makes it easier to pinpoint what might be causing tummy troubles.
- Prebiotics and Probiotics: These are good for your cat’s gut health. They help balance the good and bad bacteria in the stomach.
- Fiber Content: Some foods have added fiber. This can help move food through the digestive system more smoothly.
- Hypoallergenic Formulas: If your vet suspects allergies, hypoallergenic foods are made with novel proteins your cat hasn’t eaten before.
- Moisture Content: Wet food often has higher moisture. This can be easier to digest for some cats than dry kibble.
Important Materials and Ingredients
When you look at cat food labels, pay attention to these things:
- Protein Sources: Look for named meat sources like chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish. Avoid generic “meat by-products” if possible.
- Carbohydrates: Rice, oats, and sweet potatoes are generally good choices. Corn and wheat can sometimes be harder to digest for sensitive cats.
- Fats: Healthy fats like chicken fat or fish oil are important. They provide energy and help with nutrient absorption.
- Vitamins and Minerals: These are essential for overall health.
- Avoid Artificial Additives: Colors, flavors, and preservatives can sometimes cause stomach upset.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes Food Better:
- High-quality protein as the first ingredient. This shows the food is meat-based.
- Natural ingredients. Fewer processed items are usually better.
- Formulas designed for sensitive stomachs. These are made with your cat’s needs in mind.
- Vet-recommended brands. These often have more research behind them.
What Makes Food Worse:
- Fillers like excessive corn or wheat. These don’t offer much nutrition and can be hard to digest.
- Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. They can irritate a sensitive stomach.
- Unknown or vague ingredient lists. You want to know exactly what you’re feeding your cat.
- Sudden diet changes. Always switch food slowly to avoid upsetting your cat’s stomach.
User Experience and Use Cases
Owners of cats who throw up often look for foods that:
- Reduce the frequency of vomiting. This is the main goal.
- Improve stool quality. Less diarrhea or constipation is a good sign.
- Increase appetite. A happy cat eats well.
- Are palatable. Your cat actually has to eat the food for it to work!
These foods are useful for cats with:
- Food sensitivities or allergies.
- Sensitive stomachs.
- Hairball issues.
- Digestive upset after eating too fast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most common reason cats throw up?
A: Cats often throw up because they eat too fast, have hairballs, or have a sensitive stomach. Sometimes, it can be a sign of a more serious health issue.
Q: Should I feed my cat wet or dry food if they throw up?
A: Many owners find wet food easier for their cats to digest. It has more moisture and can be gentler on the stomach. However, some cats do well on special dry formulas.
Q: How do I know if a food is hypoallergenic?
A: Hypoallergenic foods use “novel proteins” that your cat hasn’t eaten before. This helps avoid allergic reactions. Examples include duck, venison, or rabbit.
Q: How long does it take to see results from a new food?
A: It can take a few days to a couple of weeks. You should start to see less vomiting and improved digestion.
Q: Can I switch my cat’s food cold turkey?
A: No. You should gradually mix the new food with the old food over 7-10 days. This helps prevent stomach upset.
Q: What are prebiotics and probiotics?
A: Prebiotics feed the good bacteria in your cat’s gut, and probiotics are the good bacteria themselves. They work together to promote a healthy digestive system.
Q: Should I consult my veterinarian before changing my cat’s food?
A: Yes. Your vet can help determine the cause of the vomiting and recommend the best type of food for your cat’s specific needs.
Q: What if my cat still throws up after trying a “sensitive stomach” food?
A: If vomiting continues, it’s important to go back to your veterinarian. There might be an underlying medical condition that needs treatment.
Q: Are hairball formulas effective for cats that throw up?
A: Yes, hairball formulas often contain fiber that helps hair pass through the digestive system more easily, reducing vomiting caused by hairballs.
Q: What does “limited ingredient diet” mean?
A: A limited ingredient diet (LID) means the food has a short list of carefully chosen ingredients. This is helpful for pinpointing food sensitivities or allergies.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!