Hairball or something else?

My kitty, Bubba, has been acting like a big baby all day, following me around more than usual, etc.  I just laid down for a nap after getting home from a movie (gone a few hours) and he lays down beside me. He got up and laid down a few more times, he couldn't get comfortable. He then laid down and let out a Yowl, which he never does. I sat up and he jumped off the bed, Yowled again and about a minute later started gagging.

I should mention Bubba has never thrown up or even had a hairball since we got him about 16 months ago (he is around 4 years of age).

He threw up twice and there was a medium sized ball of fur and some cat food. He seems to be okay but his eyes are wide and doesn't seem to want to move around much.

Do you think he just needed to get up a hairball or has indigestion? I'm very worried. Its not like him to throw up and I hate hearing him in discomfort.

Any advice would be much appreciated.

I should mention his bathroom habits are fairly normal, I saw he did #1 earlier today and hasn't done #2 since last night but I'll keep watch (without him feeling watched!).

Hi there!

One instance of vomit generally isn't a huge concern, but no one knows your cat better than you so if you're concerned then I would consult a vet.  Better safe than sorry.  The fact that a hairball came up is a positive thing as it suggests that there isn't a blockage, but if there was repeat vomiting, or diarrhea or straining at the litter box or lethagy, or if he continued to act "oddly" then i would absolutely consult a vet.

Here are some links on hairballs.

http://www.thecatsite.com/a/cats-and-hairballs

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/hairballs

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