How to Treat and Prevent Hairballs
They can be gross, but hairballs are a normal part of a kitty’s (and kitty caretaker’s) life. When cats groom themselves fur is ingested in the process. If that fur doesn’t pass through the digestive tract it will collect together and need to be expelled, usually right on that new rug you put down.
Springtime is the time when you’ll likely see more because they are shedding their winter coat (even indoor kitties).
Can you prevent hairballs?
Not completely, but there are a few things you can do to help prevent more severe issues caused by hairballs:
Brushing your cat will help gather any loose and shedding fur, making it less likely they will swallow it or end up all over the house. Make it a positive experience for you both and it can be a wonderful bonding time for the two of you!
During our pet sitting visits, we love to spend time brushing your kitty if they have a favorite brush. It can be a great way to help keep them relaxed while you are away!
Several treat brands have formulas designed to help push any hair through the digestive tract. You can find both crunchy treats and gels for them to lick at. Catnip and cat grass are good ways to add fiber to their diet while being fun for them too!
Keep them hydrated. Water keeps everything moving through their system like it should. One trick to increase water intake if your cat is stubborn about water is adding a couple spoonfuls of water to their wet food. Some cats will drink more frequently from moving water like fountains or dripping taps. Remember, most cats don’t like having their water and food right next to each other! Add several options around the house and they’ll pick their favorite.
If your kitty is still having trouble with frequent hairballs, or are showing any severe signs of illness, contact your Veterinarian. Sometimes hairballs can cause obstructions and may need surgery to remove, so be sure to give the Veterinarian a call right away if you see any of the symptoms below:
Things to watch for:
Lethargy
Hacking, coughing, or gagging but no hairball is produced
Lack of appetite
Change in stool: Constipation or diarrhea can be a sign that something isn’t right in their digestion
Distended abdomen: This is a sign there might be an obstruction and your cat needs to see the vet right away!
Does it seem like your kitty has started to get more hairballs as they’ve aged? That’s normal too! Kittens are not very good at grooming themselves, so they are less likely to develop hairballs. As they get older, cats are better at grooming so, inevitably, more hair is ingested which may produce more hairballs.
If you are unsure of the best way to treat your cat, a quick chat with your vet will help!