Pet sitting - do cats just vomit all the time?

[Anonymous]

I care for my neighbor's cats whenever she's away. They use a timed feeder, so I make sure it's refilled, and change the water and litterbox.
If my neighbor is gone for more than a couple days, the cats throw up all over the house: I visit twice a day and there's nearly always vomit when I come in. It's food, not bile or blood or anything like that. I always tell the neighbor, and she always reacts like it's a very odd thing that never happens when she's home.

Is this an emotional reaction, like the cats miss her or dislike me? Something else? If they were dogs I'd withhold food for a day, to let things settle: does that work for cats?

[Anonymous]

It may not happen as much/at all when your friend is home, but it probably happens at least somewhat. Cats do this to express their feelings, and most cats have big feelings about changes in their environment. Withdrawing food will only agitate them more, and could cause actual GI problems (not just attitude problems).

Are they leaving their offerings/protests in a regular location? That can sometimes be a clue as to what they're upset about. It's probably not a medical issue. If the cats are eating, and the litterbox is filling, I'd blame 'tude. They're used to having someone home more often, and you're only there (to serve them) for a couple brief visits. Their Majesties are demanding attention. It sounds weird, but on the first visit when she's away, try playing with them (laser, catnip, the good stuff) and talking to them about how she's gone and you'll be around.

As long as they're staying hydrated and still have an appetite, I wouldn't worry much about it.

[Anonymous]

No, just let them eat. It’s probably stress rather than any sort of stomach issue.

[Anonymous]

Cats vomit. Let the owner know about it. But don’t withhold food.

[Anonymous]

My cats do this more when we are gone. Whatever.