Watch, wait or call? Here’s how to tell.

Cat and dog health: symptoms and when to call the vet.

Q: When is cat vomiting an emergency?

More than once or twice in a day, or with blood, belly pain, weakness, fever or weight loss: call your vet today. (Source: Merck Veterinary Manual)

Q: Who do I call if my pet ate something poisonous?

Your vet, or (888) 426-4435. That is ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Have the package, or the name of what your pet ate, ready. (Source: ASPCA)

That 3 a.m. sound every cat owner knows. Some symptoms can wait for a regular appointment; some can’t. These guides explain what common symptoms can mean and the signs that mean calling your vet today. They never diagnose, and every one ends with when to call.

Why is my cat throwing up? Causes and when to call the vet

Every figure sourced and dated
Checked October 1, 2026
No insurer or brand pays to be listed

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A cat that vomits more than once or twice in a day, or with blood, belly pain, weakness, fever or weight loss, needs a call to the vet today (Merck Veterinary Manual).
If your pet ate something toxic, call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.
Our health guides explain what a symptom can mean. They never diagnose or give doses; your vet does that.

1 guide

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Why is my cat throwing up? Causes and when to call the vet

That sound at 3 a.m. Every cat owner knows it. Most of the time it's a hairball, but sometimes vomiting is the first sign of something that needs a vet. Here is how to tell the difference.

CatUpdated October 1, 2026

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Quick answers

What people ask about health

When is cat vomiting an emergency?

More than once or twice in a day, or with blood, belly pain, weakness, fever or weight loss: call your vet today.

Who do I call if my pet ate something poisonous?

Your vet, or (888) 426-4435. That is ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Have the package, or the name of what your pet ate, ready.

Keep this handy

If your pet ate something toxic

Call your vet first. If you can’t reach them, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Have the package, or the name of what your pet ate, ready.

ASPCA Animal Poison Control

(888) 426-4435

Source: ASPCA. A consultation fee may apply; the ASPCA lists the current terms on its site.

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