Hairballs in Cats: Causes, Symptoms and How To Help

Picture this: you’re relaxing on the couch when you suddenly hear the unmistakable sound of your cat hacking and gagging. A few moments later, there it is: a small, unpleasant hairball on the floor. While this may be a common sight for many cat owners, it’s easy to overlook the potential issues behind those little furballs. Hairballs are a normal part of feline life, but when they become frequent or troublesome, they can signal an underlying concern. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the causes, symptoms, and helpful tips for managing cat hairballs, so you can keep your cat comfortable and healthy.

What Are Cat Hairballs?

Hairballs, or “furballs,” are clumps of fur that your cat coughs up after grooming. Cats have a grooming instinct, and while licking their fur, they often ingest loose hairs. Normally, these hairs would pass through their digestive system and exit with their waste. However, some hairs get caught in the stomach, forming a ball. The cat may eventually cough it up or regurgitate it. Though hairballs are common in many cats, frequent occurrences or difficulty passing them may indicate a health issue.

Causes of Cat Hairballs

There are several factors that contribute to hairball formation in cats. While shedding is the most common cause, other conditions may exacerbate the problem.

Shedding and Grooming Habits

Cats naturally shed their fur, particularly during seasonal changes. Long-haired cats, such as Persians or Maine Coons, tend to shed more because their coats are thicker. Cats that groom themselves excessively may ingest more hair than they can pass through their digestive system, leading to hairball formation.

Health Conditions

Certain health conditions may lead to more frequent hairballs or difficulty passing them. If your cat’s digestive system is irritated or slow, hair may stay in the stomach longer, forming larger hairballs. Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastrointestinal motility disorders, or other digestive problems may contribute to hairball formation.

Diet and Hydration

Diet plays a significant role in how well your cat can digest the fur they ingest. Cats on a poor diet may have difficulty processing the hair that enters their system. Additionally, dehydration can affect how well their digestive system functions, leading to slower processing and potential hairball issues. Cats need plenty of water and a high-quality, balanced diet to help maintain healthy fur and proper digestion.

Symptoms of Hairballs in Cats

Not all hairballs are immediately visible, but there are several signs that may indicate your cat is struggling with them. Recognizing these signs early can help you address any issues before they become more serious.

Coughing or Gagging

One of the most obvious symptoms of hairballs in cats is coughing or gagging. If your cat is struggling to expel a hairball, they may make an attempt to vomit, often resulting in a coughing fit or dry heaving. Cats may also display a prolonged gagging sound, signaling that they are working to clear their throat.

Vomiting

In some cases, cats will vomit the hairball. Vomiting may occur once the hairball has become large enough to cause discomfort or irritation in the stomach. If you notice your cat frequently vomiting, especially after grooming, it could be a sign that hairballs are becoming problematic.

Decreased Appetite

If your cat is unable to pass a hairball, it may cause them discomfort or even pain. This discomfort can lead to a loss of appetite. A cat that refuses to eat or seems to be disinterested in food may be trying to avoid discomfort caused by hairballs in the stomach.

Licking or Grooming Excessively

While all cats groom themselves, some may start licking obsessively when they have an accumulation of loose fur. This grooming behavior could be a way for your cat to try and manage the hair they are ingesting. If you see your cat grooming non-stop, it’s worth looking into whether hairballs are the cause.

Constipation or Changes in Litter Box Habits

Occasionally, hairballs can lead to constipation. If your cat is straining to defecate or has fewer bowel movements, the hairball may have caused an obstruction. A sudden change in litter box habits, especially if your cat seems uncomfortable, could indicate this problem.

How to Help Prevent and Manage Hairballs

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help manage or prevent hairballs in your cat. These methods will help minimize discomfort and ensure that your cat stays healthy and happy.

Regular Grooming

Brushing your cat regularly can help reduce the amount of loose hair they ingest during grooming. Cats with long hair or dense coats benefit greatly from daily brushing. This will help remove excess fur and prevent it from being ingested during self-grooming. For cats with shorter coats, brushing a few times a week can still make a noticeable difference. For cats that aren’t fond of brushing, try using a glove brush or a gentler brush designed for sensitive pets. These tools can help you groom them more easily and may be less stressful for your cat.

Special Hairball Diets

There are special commercial cat foods designed to reduce hairball formation. These diets often contain higher fiber content, which helps move hair through the digestive system. Some formulas also include added fats or oils to help lubricate the digestive tract and reduce the chances of hairballs becoming lodged in the stomach.

Hydration

Encourage your cat to drink more water. Dehydration can cause the digestive system to slow down, making it harder for your cat to pass hairballs. A cat that is well-hydrated will have better digestion, which helps prevent hairball problems. If your cat doesn’t drink much from a bowl, consider investing in a cat water fountain. Cats tend to drink more when the water is moving, and this may help them stay hydrated.

Hairball Remedies and Supplements

There are over-the-counter hairball remedies that can help lubricate your cat’s digestive system, making it easier for hairballs to pass through the intestines. Some of these remedies come in the form of gels, treats, or supplements. Always check with your veterinarian before using these remedies to ensure they are appropriate for your cat’s health.

Veterinary Care

If your cat is experiencing frequent or severe hairballs, it’s important to visit your veterinarian. In some cases, hairballs can become impacted, leading to more serious health issues like obstructions or digestive problems. Your veterinarian at Cali’s Cottage Veterinary Hospital can perform a thorough examination, rule out any underlying health conditions, and offer professional advice on the best ways to manage your cat’s hairball issues.

When Should You Seek Veterinary Help?

While occasional hairballs are normal, persistent or problematic hairballs should be addressed with the help of your veterinarian. If your cat is vomiting frequently, appears lethargic, or is having trouble passing hairballs, it’s time to schedule an appointment with our team at Cali’s Cottage Veterinary Hospital. It’s also important to seek veterinary attention if your cat shows any signs of distress, such as changes in appetite, excessive grooming, or constipation that doesn’t improve. Your vet can diagnose whether hairballs are the cause or if there’s an underlying condition that needs treatment. Call us (714) 846-1378 or book an appointment online today!