Cat Vomit Looks Like Poop: Causes and What to Do

As a cat owner, seeing your cat vomit is never pleasant. Sometimes, however, it can be particularly concerning if the cat vomit looks like poop. This unusual occurrence can indicate underlying health problems that require immediate attention.

1. Intestinal Obstruction (Blockage)
   Intestinal blockage happens when hairballs, foreign objects, or undigested material get stuck in your cat’s intestines. When the intestines become blocked, your cat might vomit material that resembles fecal matter. This condition, known as copremesis, often produces vomit with a greenish-yellow color and a foul, poop-like odor. Blockages can cause pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Partial blockages might cause discomfort but may not necessarily cause vomiting.
2. Gastrojejunocolic Fistula
   This rare condition involves an abnormal connection between the stomach and intestines, causing stool and food to be vomited. It typically happens if your cat has difficulty digesting large meals, resulting in vomiting food and liquid stool. This condition can also cause the vomit to smell extremely bad and appear thick and pasty.
3. Megaesophagus
   Megaesophagus is a condition affecting the esophagus muscles, preventing proper swallowing. Cats with megaesophagus regurgitate undigested food mixed with fecal matter, resulting in vomit looking like poop. This condition requires veterinary attention as it can be severe.
4. Presence of Bile
   Bile, a digestive fluid produced in the liver, can sometimes cause vomit to appear brown or poop-like, especially if mixed with undigested food. Bile is typically yellow-green but can become brown when mixed with digestive juices and food.
5. Undigested Food and Grass
   Cats often consume grass or other plant material which their digestive systems cannot fully process. The presence of undigested grass or fiber can give vomit a solid, brown, fecal-like appearance. Cats are obligate carnivores and require a diet primarily composed of animal protein, making plant matter difficult to digest.
6. Blood in Vomit
   Blood in cat vomit, giving it a dark brown or reddish appearance, might indicate gastrointestinal ulcers, cancer, or severe intestinal blockage. Immediate veterinary attention is required in this case as it could indicate a severe condition.
7. Hairballs
   Hairballs can occasionally give vomit a poop-like smell. This happens when hairballs contain small amounts of fecal matter from the digestive tract, dead hair, and dandruff flakes. Fresh hairballs typically have a strong ammonia smell, while older ones may smell fishy or fecal due to bacterial growth.
8. Environmental Factors
   If a cat vomits on a surface that is already soiled or stained, the vomit might visually appear brown or poop-like. This visual effect does not typically indicate a health concern.

If your cat’s vomit resembles poop, take the following steps:

1. Monitor Closely
   Observe your cat carefully after vomiting. Look for signs like lethargy, loss of appetite, continued vomiting, diarrhea, or blood in the vomit.
2. Consult a Veterinarian
   If you notice persistent vomiting, signs of distress, or blood, immediately consult your veterinarian. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and protect your cat’s health.
3. Diet Management
   Ensure your cat has a balanced diet suited to their age, weight, and activity level. Avoid excessive intake of grass or plant material. If your cat is frequently vomiting, adjusting their diet or feeding schedule can often help.
4. Smaller, Frequent Meals
   Providing smaller, frequent meals can help avoid digestive stress and vomiting caused by overeating.
5. Maintain Hydration
   Always provide fresh water to prevent dehydration, especially if your cat is vomiting frequently. Dehydration can exacerbate vomiting and cause additional health issues.
6. Clean Promptly
   Clean vomit immediately using an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate bacteria and odors effectively.

Occasional vomiting in cats can be normal, often related to hairballs or minor dietary issues. However, cat vomit looking like poop indicates more serious concerns. Persistent vomiting, blood in vomit, or additional symptoms such as lethargy or diarrhea warrant urgent veterinary attention.

Cats with a blockage might still be able to poop, though it may be difficult. The blockage may eventually move down the digestive tract naturally, but it could take several days.

Common blockage causes include hairballs, tumors, and foreign objects such as strings or rubber bands. Symptoms of blockage include nausea, abdominal pain, and foul-smelling vomiting. Immediate veterinary care is critical as prolonged blockage can cause permanent organ damage or even be life-threatening.

If your cat smells like poop, they may have an anal gland infection. The anal glands produce a foul-smelling liquid, and infection or inflammation can cause unpleasant odors around your cat’s anus. Additional symptoms include straining to defecate or passing blood or mucus. Diarrhea and vomiting may also cause your cat to smell bad, indicating other underlying issues like intestinal parasites or infections.

If your cat’s vomit smells particularly foul, possible causes include parasite infestation, gastrointestinal inflammation or infection, or food intolerance.

Sour or acidic smells may indicate food mixed with the vomit or ingestion of spoiled food. Blood in vomit is a serious concern, potentially indicating foreign objects or severe internal issues.

Also Read: How To Clean a Cats Bum After Diarrhea.

If your cat’s vomit looks like poop, it’s crucial to identify the cause promptly. Regular veterinary check-ups, close observation, and maintaining a proper diet will help ensure your cat’s health and well-being. Immediate veterinary care in concerning situations can prevent serious complications and ensure timely treatment.