If your cat is throwing up more than the occasional hairball, you’re probably wondering what the heck is going on.

Is it normal? (probably not)
Is it something you’re feeding them? (possibly)
Is it time for a vet visit? (maybe)

One thing’s for sure – cats with sensitive stomachs need the right food to stop the vomit comet. Let’s dive into what makes a good cat food for sensitive tummies and which brands might help your furry friend keep their food down.

Finding the Right Food for Your Cat’s Sensitive Stomach

Ever notice how some people can eat anything while others get stomach aches from looking at dairy? Cats are the same way. Some can digest anything, while others need special diets to keep their stomach happy.

What Makes a Good “Sensitive Stomach” Cat Food?

Real animal protein is the foundation. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they need meat to survive. Proteins like salmon, turkey, duck, and rabbit are often easier for sensitive cats to digest than chicken or beef.

Moisture matters – a lot. Wet food provides hydration that helps with digestion and keeps everything moving smoothly through your cat’s system. Studies show that cats on dry-food-only diets often don’t drink enough water to make up the difference.

Fiber sources like pumpkin are your friend. Pumpkin helps with digestion by preventing constipation and moving hairballs through the system instead of back up the way they came.

Omega fatty acids (especially from fish oils) reduce inflammation in the gut and promote a healthy digestive system. Plus, they make your cat’s coat super shiny – bonus!

Prebiotics and probiotics support a healthy gut microbiome, which is basically your cat’s internal ecosystem of good bacteria that help them digest food properly.

What’s NOT in the food is just as important as what is. Good sensitive stomach formulas avoid:

• Corn, wheat, and soy (common allergens)
• Artificial colors and preservatives
• Excessive carbohydrates
• Mystery meat by-products

Types of Cat Food for Sensitive Stomachs

Wet Food

Wet food is generally the best option for cats with sensitive stomachs. The high moisture content:

• Makes digestion easier
• Prevents dehydration
• Supports kidney health
• Helps food move through the digestive tract

Many cats who vomit dry food can keep wet food down without issues. Veterinary research indicates that wet food’s natural hydration helps prevent many digestive issues.

Limited Ingredient Diets

These formulas keep it simple with:

• One protein source (like duck or rabbit)
• Minimal ingredients overall
• No fillers or common allergens

The simpler ingredient list makes it easier to identify what might be causing issues and eliminates potential irritants from your cat’s diet.

Specialized Formulas

Several major brands make specialized formulas specifically for sensitive stomachs:

• Royal Canin Digestive Care
• Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach
• Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach
• KOHA Limited Ingredient

These foods are designed with digestive health in mind, with easy-to-digest proteins and added supplements to support gut function.

Top Cat Food Recommendations for Sensitive Stomachs

KOHA Limited Ingredient Cat Food

• Single protein sources like duck or venison
• Includes pumpkin for digestion
• No fillers or common allergens
• Good option for cats with food sensitivities

Royal Canin Digestive Care

• Contains fiber blend to prevent constipation
• Highly digestible proteins
• Specifically formulated to reduce hairballs and vomiting
• Many vets recommend this as a first option

Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin

• Salmon-based protein (easier to digest for many cats)
• Includes prebiotic fiber for gut health
• Balanced nutrition specially formulated for sensitive systems

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach

• Real meat as first ingredient
• Contains probiotics for digestive health
• Rice and oatmeal as gentle carbohydrate sources
• Omega fatty acids for skin and gut health

Smalls Ground Other Bird Fresh Cat Food

• Turkey as single animal protein
• Low carbohydrate content
• High moisture content
• Fresh food may be more digestible for some cats

How to Handle Your Cat’s Sensitive Stomach

Talk to your vet first. Chronic vomiting can be a sign of:

• Food allergies
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Infections
• Other serious health issues

Transition food gradually. Mix increasing amounts of new food with decreasing amounts of old food over 7-10 days. Sudden changes can cause more vomiting!

Watch for patterns. Does your cat vomit after certain foods? At certain times of day? Keep a log to help identify triggers.

Hydration is key. Make sure your cat has access to fresh water at all times, and consider a pet fountain if they’re picky about drinking still water.

Consider elevated feeding. Some cats benefit from having their food dish raised slightly off the ground, which can help with digestion.

Pay attention to eating speed. If your cat gobbles food too quickly, try a slow-feeder bowl or feeding smaller amounts more frequently.

In summary, the best cat food for sensitive stomachs focuses on quality animal proteins, high moisture content, added fiber, and digestive support through probiotics and omega fatty acids. Working with your vet to find the right food can make a huge difference in your cat’s comfort and reduce those unpleasant cleanup sessions for you.

Remember – a little trial and error may be needed to find what works for your specific cat. What works for one sensitive kitty might not work for another, but with patience, you’ll find the right formula to keep your cat’s food where it belongs in their belly, not on your carpet.