Cat Hairballs: Prevention and Management
Cat hairballs are one of the most common issues affecting both indoor and outdoor cats, regardless of coat length. By reading this article, you will learn how hairballs form, how to prevent them, what risks they pose, and how to manage them properly.
Cat Hairballs: What They Are
“Cats are the cleanest animals” — how many times have you heard this? Grooming is a very serious matter for cats: they spend hours grooming themselves by licking their coat, as well as that of their kittens and of cats they are especially bonded to.
This is precisely how they collect and ingest large amounts of hair, which then accumulate and form a hairball, also known as a trichobezoar. This happens in both long-haired and short-haired cats.
The times of year when the problem usually becomes more evident coincide with shedding periods, namely spring and autumn.
Risks and Symptoms
Normally, hairballs remain in the stomach and intestines without causing major issues and are later expelled through vomiting or in the cat’s feces.
If this does not happen, the health risks can be significant and may require surgical intervention.
Symptoms that should prompt your attention include: constipation, pain during defecation, intestinal obstruction, coughing, nutrient malabsorption, abdominal bloating, loss of appetite, gastritis, and frequent retching or vomiting.
Are there remedies for cat hairballs? Absolutely yes.
How to Prevent Hairballs in Cats
Two main actions can help prevent hairballs in cats:
- A specific, targeted diet;
- Daily brushing of the cat;
- Wiping the coat with a damp towel.
Cat Hairball Remedies
What should you do if your cat has hairballs? You can also take action in managing the problem by:
- Contacting a veterinarian immediately if you notice digestive difficulties, signs of suffering, lethargy, or discomfort;
- Offering specific foods formulated to reduce hairballs in cats;
- Providing a stimulating environment, so the cat does not engage in excessive grooming out of boredom.
Cat Diet for Hairballs: Key Characteristics
Whether you want to prevent or manage the problem, suitable food for hairballs is essential. How can you recognize the right one?
First of all, it must contain the proper nutrients for feline health. It should also be rich in fiber and superfoods with a soothing effect on the gastrointestinal mucosa.
Cat Hairballs: FAQ
Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions on the topic. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
Why does my cat often get hairballs?
Hairballs are not a sign of poor well-being. They are a common and almost physiological condition, especially during shedding periods. For indoor cats, shedding can even extend throughout the year.
Does cat grass help prevent hairballs?
Cat grass stimulates vomiting, helping cats expel excess hairballs. In addition, it appears to help cleanse the stomach and support digestion.
How often should I brush my cat to prevent hairballs?
Long-haired cats need to be brushed at least once a day. Short-haired cats can be brushed twice a week, although increasing the frequency certainly does no harm.
What is the best food to prevent hairballs in cats?
If you are looking for dry food to help prevent or manage hairballs, we recommend Naxos Adult Sterilight, because:
- It is suitable for neutered cats and cats prone to being overweight;
- It contains beet pulp, rich in fiber, which helps promote the natural elimination of ingested hair and counteracts possible malabsorption;
- Its ingredients include prickly pear and spirulina algae, which support intestinal well-being;
- The recipe also includes olive oil and pomegranate, providing vitamin E and supporting skin health;
- It is monoprotein, made with a single source of Italian meat or fish, gluten-free grains, and no added soy, corn, or artificial preservatives, making it suitable even for intolerant or allergic cats;
- It is environmentally friendly, thanks to sustainable packaging and traceable raw materials, and animal-friendly because it is cruelty-free.
Try it now: find out where to buy it online or in the stores closest to you.
