That hacking sound at 3am is familiar to most cat owners. Hairballs are common, but they aren't something to ignore completely. Here's why they happen, when to worry, and what helps.
Why cats get hairballs
A cat's tongue is covered in tiny backward-facing hooks. When cats groom themselves, those hooks catch loose fur, and the cat swallows it. Most of that fur passes through the digestive system. When too much builds up in the stomach, the cat brings it back up as a hairball, which usually looks more like a tube than a ball because it passes through the esophagus.
Which cats get more hairballs?
- Long-haired breeds such as Persians and Maine Coons
- Cats that shed heavily, especially in spring and fall
- Cats that overgroom because of stress, itchy skin or allergies
How many hairballs are normal?
An occasional hairball can be normal for many cats, especially long-haired ones. But frequent hairballs, or frequent vomiting in general, are not something to assume is "just hairballs." Vomiting can have many causes, so talk to your vet if it happens often.
Call the vet right away if your cat keeps retching without bringing anything up, stops eating, seems lethargic, is constipated, or has a swollen or painful belly. A hairball can occasionally cause a blockage, which is an emergency.
What actually helps
1. Brush regularly
This is the most effective habit. Every hair you remove with a brush is a hair your cat doesn't swallow. Daily brushing during shedding season makes a big difference, especially for long-haired cats. A self-cleaning slicker brush makes quick daily sessions easier, since the fur releases with one click.
2. Give your cat a place to rub off loose fur
Cats rub their cheeks and backs on surfaces to scratch and shed loose hair. A bristled rubbing spot, like a corner brush or a walk-through self-grooming arch, catches some of that loose fur on the bristles instead of in your cat's mouth. It works best alongside brushing, not instead of it.
3. Ask your vet about diet
Some diets include extra fiber to help fur move through the digestive tract. There are also hairball gels and treats. Check with your vet before changing food or adding supplements, especially if your cat has other health conditions.
4. Keep your cat hydrated
Good hydration supports healthy digestion. Many cats drink more from a water fountain, and wet food adds moisture to the diet.
5. Reduce overgrooming
If your cat grooms so much that it leaves thin or bald patches, the cause may be stress, fleas, allergies or pain. Play, enrichment and a vet visit to rule out skin problems can all help.
The bottom line
Hairballs come from swallowed fur, so the best prevention is less loose fur: brush regularly, give your cat a good rubbing spot and keep them hydrated. And if hairballs or vomiting are frequent, or your cat seems unwell, see your vet.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.