What Are Hairballs?

Despite their name, hairballs aren’t actually shaped like balls. The technical term for a hairball is trichobezoar, and they typically appear as damp, cylindrical clumps of fur that a cat coughs up. Hairballs form in the digestive tract when swallowed hair accumulates instead of passing through the intestines. Since cats are meticulous groomers and their tongues are covered in tiny backward-facing barbs, they remove tons of loose fur from their coats. While grooming is essential for cleanliness and temperature regulation, it also means cats swallow a significant amount of hair every day. Luckily, most of this hair passes through the digestive system without issue; however, sometimes it comes out the other end.

What Causes Hairballs

As briefly mentioned above, hairballs develop when ingested fur builds up in the stomach rather than moving smoothly through the digestive tract. There are several factors  that can increase the likelihood of hairball formation, including excessive grooming, shedding, digestive issues, poor diet and nutrition, and age and activity levels.

Cats that groom often are more likely to swallow larger amounts of hair. Stress, anxiety, boredom, allergies, or skin irritation can all lead to overgrooming. If you notice your cat grooming frequently, it’s a good idea to book an appointment with your vet. Long-haired, double-coated breeds are more prone to hairballs due to increased shedding and longer fur; however, seasonal shedding can also increase the risk, even in short-haired cats.

Additionally, diets lacking adequate fibre or moisture may contribute to more hairball formation. Low-quality foods or sudden diet changes can also affect digestion and gut motility. It’s essential for cats to have a healthy digestive system, as it helps move hair through the intestines. Cats with slow digestion, dehydration, or gastrointestinal conditions may have difficulty passing hair naturally, so be sure to talk to your vet about diet if you notice your cat producing a lot of hairballs.  

Lastly, age and health matter; older or less active cats may have slower digestive motility, increasing the risk that hair will accumulate in the stomach. Be sure to give your cat the appropriate amount of activity for their age and energy levels to help promote their digestion.

Are Hairballs Normal?

Yes, occasional hairballs are considered normal. However, frequent hairballs —more than once or twice a month—may indicate an underlying issue. Keep an eye out for persistent coughing, gagging without producing a hairball, constipation, diarrhea, appetite loss, or lethargy, as these are not normal and should be evaluated by a veterinarian. In rare cases, hairballs can cause intestinal blockages, which are a medical emergency.

How to Prevent Hairballs

The good news is that hairballs can often be reduced or prevented with a few proactive steps. These steps include regular brushing, hairball-preventative diets, hydration, supplements, addressing unusual behaviours (such as overgrooming), and maintaining a clean environment.

One of the most effective ways to prevent hairballs is to remove loose fur before your cat swallows it. Long-haired cats may benefit from daily brushing, while short-haired cats should be brushed several times a week. During heavy shedding seasons, more frequent grooming can make a big difference. In addition to brushing, review the food you feed your cat. Many commercial cat foods are formulated specifically to help reduce hairballs. These diets typically contain added fibre to help move hair through the digestive tract. Wet food can also be beneficial, as the added moisture supports digestion and hydration, both of which are essential for healthy digestion. Make sure your cat always has access to fresh water to encourage them to keep hydrated.

Some supplements and remedies, such as hairball gels, pastes, or chews, are designed to lubricate the digestive tract, allowing hair to pass more easily; however, before using any supplements or remedies, be sure to talk to your vet about what works best for your cat. Your vet can assess whether your cat grooms excessively, determine whether there is a specific cause, and suggest the best option for your cat.  Lastly, keeping a clean environment is beneficial for both you and your cat. Regular vacuuming and cleaning can reduce the amount of loose hair in your home that your cat ingests.

When to See a Veterinarian

If you notice your cat frequently vomiting hairballs, straining in the litter box, or showing signs of discomfort, a veterinary visit is required. Your veterinarian can rule out underlying digestive issues, allergies, or medical conditions and recommend appropriate treatments, such as prescription diets or medications to support gut motility.

Hairball Prevention is Best

By knowing all about car hairballs, you can help your cat live a healthy, happy life. While cat hairballs are common, they don’t have to be an inevitable part of cat ownership. With regular grooming, proper nutrition, and attention to your cat’s overall health and behavior, hairballs can often be minimized or even prevented. A proactive approach not only keeps your home cleaner but also ensures your cat stays comfortable, healthy, and happy.For your professional pet sitting needs, contact Luv My Sitter.

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