Hairballs in cats: what are they and what can you do about them?
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by Robin van Leeuwen
Every cat owner knows it: your cat is washing itself extensively and a little later there is suddenly a hairball on the floor. Not the nicest moment, but something that happens often. It is usually harmless, although it can be quite uncomfortable for your cat. Why does one cat suffer from it more often than another, when is it normal and what can you do to limit hairballs?
What are hairballs in cats?
Hairballs don't just happen; they are the result of how a cat is naturally built. Cats are originally very clean animals and spend a lot of time washing their fur every day. They use their tongue, which is covered with small, backward-facing hooks. These hooks work like a natural comb: loose hairs stick to them and are automatically swallowed during washing. A cat's body is designed to remove these hairs usually through the intestines. However, sometimes hairs remain in the stomach and clump together into a hairball, in which case the body can opt for another, quick solution: vomiting a hairball. This is a natural protective mechanism to prevent hair from piling up in the stomach.
Why does one cat suffer more from hairballs than another?
Not every cat gets hairballs equally often. This has to do, among other things, with:
Coat type Long-haired cats lose more hair and are therefore more at risk.
Moulting and seasons During the moult (period in which cats lose extra hair, such as changing their winter coat), cats swallow extra hair.
Coat care Cats that wash themselves intensively ingest more hair.
Digestion A slow or sensitive digestion can make it difficult to remove hair.
What can you do to reduce hairballs?
Regular coat care By brushing your cat regularly you remove loose hair before it is swallowed. This is especially important in long-haired cats and during moulting.
Pay attention to the diet A diet that is easily digestible can contribute to smoother digestion. Grain-free dietis well tolerated by many cats and can help to remove swallowed hair more easily through the feces.
Support from within Supplements that contribute to smooth digestion or a healthy coat can help limit the formation of hairballs. Salmon oilis used to support skin and coat. A healthy coat can contribute to less loose hair, which indirectly helps to limit the formation of hairballs. Sufficient exercise Exercise stimulates intestinal function. Playing and active behavior indirectly contribute to better digestion.
Practical tips for daily use
Brush your cat several times a week, daily during the moulting period
Observe how often your cat vomits hairballs
Combine good coat care with appropriate nutrition
Build up any additions slowly and see how your cat reacts
Hairballs in cats are normal, but do not have to be a recurring problem. By paying attention to coat care, nutrition and digestion you can prevent a lot of discomfort. This way you help your cat feel more comfortable, inside and out.
