Expert: Tomay - 2/10/2006

Question
we have a 4 to 5 year old cat that is both inside and out.  the
problem is that she tends to throw-up quite a bit.  sometimes it's
her food that we give her, sometimes it is animals.  is something
wrong with her?  what can we do to prevent it?  thanks

Answer
Hello,
Sorry to hear of the problems with your cat.  An indoor/outdoor cat is exposed to a varied 'diet'.  Everything from her own food at home, to food left outside by other people, as well as the wildlife in the immediate area.  Cats being the hunters that they are, are likely to eat everything from lizards to birds. Such a varied diet can sometimes cause an upset stomach.  I would keep her inside for about a week, with one specific diet, and see if the throwing up continues.  If it does, then it may be a good idea to visit her vet and be sure there is no obstruction or medical problem causing this.  If she doesn't throw up during that week, then it will be apparent that she is getting hold of a diet outside that does not agree with her.  You will then have to decide if you should keep her in, or be willing to put up (and clean up!) with the consequences of her outside visits.
Hope this is helpful.
Thank you for your inquiry.
Tomay