Cats and Hairballs: What Every Cat Owner Should Know

Hairballs are a common part of life for many cats. While they can be unpleasant to find on the carpet, they’re usually a normal result of your cat’s grooming routine. Understanding why hairballs happen and how to reduce them can help keep your cat healthy and comfortable.

Why Do Cats Get Hairballs?

Cats are naturally fastidious groomers. Their tongues are covered with tiny hook-like structures that catch loose hair while they lick their coats. Most of this hair passes through the digestive system without any issues.

Sometimes, however, the hair collects in the stomach instead of moving through the intestines. When this happens, your cat may eventually vomit up a clump of hair, known as a hairball.

Hairballs are more common in:

• Long-haired cats such as Persians or Maine Coons
• Cats that shed heavily, especially during seasonal coat changes
• Cats that groom excessively

When Are Hairballs Normal?

An occasional hairball every now and then is generally considered normal. However, frequent hairballs are not and may indicate an underlying issue.

Contact your veterinarian if your cat:

• Produces hairballs very frequently
• Is vomiting but not bringing up a hairball
• Shows signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, or constipation
• Appears to be straining or uncomfortable

In rare cases, hair can form a blockage in the digestive tract, which requires veterinary attention.

How to Reduce Hairballs

Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to reduce hairballs.

Regular grooming
Brushing your cat helps remove loose hair before it is swallowed. Long-haired cats may benefit from daily brushing, while short-haired cats may only need grooming once or twice a week.

Proper nutrition
Some cat foods are specially formulated with added fibre to help move hair through the digestive system more easily.

Hydration
Encouraging your cat to drink enough water supports healthy digestion. Cat water fountains can sometimes help increase water intake.

Hairball remedies
Veterinarians may recommend special gels or treats that help lubricate the digestive tract and allow hair to pass through more easily.

The Bottom Line

Hairballs are a normal part of being a cat owner, but they shouldn’t be frequent or excessive. With regular grooming, a balanced diet, and proper hydration, most cats can keep hairballs to a minimum.

If you’re ever unsure whether your cat’s hairballs are normal, it’s always best to check with your veterinarian for advice.