How to Prevent Hairballs In Cats

Cats are meticulous groomers, spending much of their day licking and cleaning their fur. While this behavior keeps them clean, it also leads to an unpleasant byproduct: hairballs. If you have a cat, you’ve likely witnessed on more than once occasion your feline friend coughing up a hairball, a sight that can be both alarming and perplexing.

While coughing up hairballs is a normal occurrence, there are times when it can get excessive which is not fun for you kitty or you!

What Are Hairballs?

A hairball is merely a collection of hair that accumulates in a cat's stomach or intestines. As cats groom themselves, they inadvertently swallow loose fur. Most of the hair passes through their digestive system and is excreted in the stool. However, some of it can become trapped in the stomach, gradually forming a hairball.

When a hairball gets too large to pass through the intestines, a cat will typically throw it up. Hairballs are usually cylindrical in shape, as they take on the shape of the esophagus during regurgitation. While they’re not uncommon, frequent or persistent hairballs can indicate a more serious issue.

Why Do Cats Get Hairballs?

Hairballs are a natural consequence of a cat’s grooming habits. However, several factors can increase the likelihood of hairball formation:

Long-Haired Breeds:

Cats with long fur, such as Persians or Maine Coons, are more prone to hairballs simply because they shed more and have more hair to ingest. Their grooming efforts can result in larger volumes of hair being swallowed because of their excessive fur.

Excessive Grooming:

Cats that over-groom, whether due to stress, anxiety, or a medical condition, are at higher risk of developing hairballs. Excessive grooming can lead to the ingestion of large amounts of hair, making it harder for the digestive system to handle.

Shedding Seasons:

During the spring and fall, when cats typically shed more fur, they are more likely to develop hairballs. The increase in loose hair during these times makes it easier for cats to swallow more fur than usual.

Age:

Older cats may be more prone to hairballs due to changes in grooming habits or digestive efficiency. As cats age, their grooming may become less effective, leading to the ingestion of larger amounts of hair.

Are There Potential Complications from Hairballs?

While occasional hairballs are normal, frequent or severe hairball issues can lead to complications. If a hairball becomes too large to pass through the digestive system, it can cause a blockage, leading to symptoms like vomiting, constipation, loss of appetite, and lethargy. In severe cases, this may require surgical intervention.

Some Tips on How to Prevent Hairballs

Below are some tips to help prevent hairballs:

Regular Grooming:

Brushing your cat regularly is one of the most effective ways to reduce hairballs. By removing loose fur before your cat has a chance to ingest it, you can significantly reduce the amount of hair that ends up in their digestive system. For long-haired cats, daily brushing is recommended, while short-haired breeds may benefit from brushing a few times a week.

Hairball Control Diets:

There are many specialized cat foods are available that are designed to reduce hairball formation. These diets are typically high in fiber, which helps move hair through the digestive system more efficiently. Some formulas also contain ingredients that support skin and coat health, reducing shedding and the amount of loose hair. Check with your veterinarian to see if this is a good option for your cat.

Increase Fiber Intake:

Adding a fiber supplement to your cat’s diet can also help manage hairballs. Fiber aids in the movement of hair through the digestive tract, reducing the likelihood of hairballs forming. Consult with your veterinarian before introducing any supplements to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your cat.

Or an even healthier approach is to add a little canned pumpkin to your cat’s meals once or twice a week. If hair has been ingested, the fiber in the pumpkin can help move any hairballs through the cat’s system. Or if your cat does not like the taste of pumpkin, try apple cider vinegar which is a natural lubricant. You can put a tablespoon each day in your cat’s food, and it helps promote digestion. 

Use Hairball Remedies:

Over-the-counter hairball remedies, such as lubricants or gels, can help hair pass through the digestive system more easily. These products typically contain ingredients like petroleum jelly or natural oils that coat the hair and make it easier for it to pass through the intestines.

Keep Your Cat Hydrated

Keeping your cat well-hydrated can also help prevent hairballs. Proper hydration supports healthy digestion and helps move ingested hair through the system. It is important, for all many reasons, that your cat has a fresh bowl of water all day long. If they don’t eat wet food already, try to implement it into your kitty’s diet to help increase their water intake.

Keep Your Cat Active & Engaged

Some cats will ingest hairballs simply because they are bored and spend the time grooming. If you keep your kitties active and engaged with exercise and toys, they will spend less time grooming and be happier and healthier.

When to See a Veterinarian

While occasional hairballs are normal, you should talk to your veterinarian if your cat is frequently vomiting hairballs, has a persistent cough, or shows signs of digestive discomfort. These symptoms might be indicative of a more serious condition, such as gastrointestinal blockage or an underlying health issue that requires treatment.