There are no two ways about it: Hairballs in cats are a nuisance. They are not only unpleasant for the person who has to clean them up; they can also cause intestinal obstructions, which can be a significant health issue for your cat. What can you do to keep hairballs to a minimum if cats are going to groom themselves?
What Causes Cat Hairballs?
Cat hairballs are caused by excessive grooming. When a cat grooms itself, it swallows loose fur, which eventually accumulates in the stomach and becomes a hairball. Some cats may also swallow fur from other animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters they live with. Being indoor cats can also increase the chance of hairballs because cats who are kept in a house all the time have less opportunity to expel fur from their system naturally.
What Are The Symptoms Of Hairballs?
The most common symptom of a hairball is vomiting or coughing up a ball of hair. You may also notice your cat licking its paws more than usual, as it may be trying to dislodge a hairball. Other symptoms include constipation, loss of appetite, decreased energy levels, and weight loss.
How Can You Prevent Hairballs?
The best way to prevent hairballs is to keep your cat well-groomed. Regular brushing and combing will help remove excess fur from the coat before it is swallowed. You can also try switching to a hairball control diet or supplementing your cat’s food with a hairball remedy product. Regular dental checkups are important too, as tooth decay can cause hairballs in cats that suffer from periodontal disease.
Hairballs might be gross and annoying, but they don’t have to be a cause for worry. With the right care, diet, and grooming schedule, you can help your cat stay healthy and hairball-free! Just remember that if your cat is having major problems with hairballs or if they are accompanied by other illnesses, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian as soon as possible.