What is a Cat Hairball?

A cat hairball is a bolus of matted hair and food which forms in the intestinal tract of a cat. Hairballs can be a serious problem for cats, and people should be aware of the signs to look for so that they can identify a cat hairball problem early. While many hairballs are harmlessly passed through one end or the other of the cat, some can cause intestinal obstructions, which can lead to very serious medical complications including death if they are left untreated.

Many people who live with cats are familiar with the dry hacking sound of a cat trying to bring up a hairball, and with the astounding timing cats have for coughing up hairballs in the middle of the night, during critical dinner parties, and at other inconvenient moments. Hairballs are such a notorious part of cat ownership that they have been the fodder of numerous comic strips and jokes about cats.

Hairballs form because cats ingest hair on a regular basis. The digestive system of the cat is actually equipped to handle hair, both from grooming and from prey, but if a cat's diet is not well balanced, the hair may start to collect in the stomach or intestines, matting together to create a cat hairball. In some instances, the hairball may irritate the stomach, causing the cat to vomit it up, and in other cases, it may be passed during defecation. However, hairballs can also block the intestines, causing extreme discomfort.

Passing one to two hairballs a month is normal, and not a major cause for concern. If a cat starts vomiting more frequently, or develops a swollen abdomen, a lack of interest in food, an inability to defecate, or irritability, it can be a sign of a blockage caused by a cat hairball. In these cases, the cat needs to go to the vet. Surgery may be required to remove the hairball from the intestines safely.

Cat hairball prevention can be accomplished in a number of ways. Feeding a high fiber diet tends to help, as does regular grooming to reduce the amount of loose hair. Some people also have success with cat laxatives, and cat grass can also help to ease hair out of the body. Specially formulated food for cats who are prone to hairballs is also available. If a cat experiences repeated hairballs, a veterinarian may be able to provide additional ideas to help manage the problem.

A cat hairball, medically known as a trichobezoar, is a clump of undigested hair mixed with digestive fluids that accumulates in a cat's stomach. Cats groom themselves with their tongues, which have tiny hook-like structures that catch loose fur, leading to ingestion. Over time, this hair can form a hairball, which is often expelled by vomiting.

The frequency of hairballs can vary depending on the cat's grooming habits, coat length, and age. Long-haired breeds like Persians and Maine Coons are more prone to developing hairballs. According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, it's common for cats to produce a hairball once every week or two. However, excessive hairball formation may indicate a health issue.

While occasional hairballs are normal, they can pose health risks if they become too large or frequent. Hairballs can cause intestinal blockages, which are serious and may require surgical intervention. If a cat is frequently coughing up hairballs or showing signs of distress, lethargy, or constipation, it's important to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Preventing hairballs involves regular grooming to reduce the amount of hair your cat ingests. Brushing your cat daily, especially if they have long fur, can significantly decrease the formation of hairballs. Specialized cat foods and treats designed to promote healthy digestion and hairball reduction can also be beneficial. Additionally, providing plenty of water and a fiber-rich diet can help move hair through the digestive tract more smoothly.

Home remedies for managing hairballs include providing a diet rich in fiber, which can help move hair through the intestines. Some pet owners use a small amount of petroleum jelly or specialized hairball pastes that act as a lubricant to aid in the passage of hair. However, always consult with a veterinarian before trying home remedies, as they can advise on the safest options for your cat.

It's time to be concerned about hairballs if your cat is experiencing frequent vomiting, gagging without producing a hairball, loss of appetite, lethargy, or signs of gastrointestinal blockage such as constipation or diarrhea. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition, and a veterinarian should evaluate your cat to rule out other health issues and provide appropriate treatment.