If you’ve seen your cat hacking and coughing, you may be dealing with hairballs. Hairballs are a common issue for cats, especially those that groom themselves frequently. While an occasional hairball is typically normal, frequent or excessive coughing can be a sign that something more is going on. In this blog, we’ll discuss the reasons behind hairballs, how they affect your cat, and what you can do to help reduce them. If you’re concerned about your cat’s hairball issues, call Boulder Veterinary Hospital at (303) 442-6262 to schedule an appointment or to ask any questions.
What Causes Hairballs in Cats?
Hairballs, or trichobezoars, form when your cat swallows loose fur while grooming. Cats are natural groomers, and their rough tongues pull off loose hair, which is then swallowed. Normally, this hair passes through the digestive system without issue, but sometimes it can clump together in the stomach and form a hairball. When this happens, your cat will usually cough or retch to bring the hairball up.
Long-haired breeds, like Persians and Maine Coons, are more prone to hairballs because they shed more fur, and even short-haired cats can develop them if they groom excessively. Cats that shed heavily during seasonal changes might also experience more hairballs.
Though hairballs are common, they shouldn’t happen too often. If your cat is coughing up hairballs frequently, it’s a good idea to reach out to Boulder Veterinary Hospital to discuss whether something more serious might be happening.
How Hairballs Affect Your Cat’s Health
Most cats will expel a hairball without any trouble. However, hairballs can sometimes become a problem if they cause a blockage in the digestive system. This can happen if the hairball is too large to be vomited up or if it can’t pass through the intestines. Blockages are serious and require immediate veterinary attention.
Signs that your cat may have a blockage include:
- Frequent vomiting or retching without producing a hairball
- Lack of appetite
- Lethargy or weakness
- Diarrhea or constipation
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact Boulder Veterinary Hospital. Blockages can be life-threatening and may require surgery to remove the hairball.
Hairballs can also be a sign of an underlying issue like gastrointestinal disorders. Cats with conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may be more prone to hairballs because their digestive systems have trouble moving material through as quickly as they should. If your cat’s hairball issues are persistent, we recommend discussing the possibility of an underlying condition with us during your next visit.
How to Reduce Hairballs in Cats
Though it’s impossible to completely prevent hairballs, there are several steps you can take to reduce their frequency. Regular grooming is one of the most effective ways to keep your cat’s coat free of loose fur, especially for long-haired breeds. Brushing your cat helps remove loose hair before they can swallow it, reducing the amount of hair that might form a hairball.
For cats that shed heavily, a visit to Boulder Veterinary Hospital for a professional grooming session might also help keep their coat under control. Some cat owners also find that using grooming wipes or special brushes designed to remove more fur can make a significant difference in shedding.
Additionally, a balanced diet rich in fiber can help keep your cat’s digestive system moving smoothly. Fiber aids in pushing hair through the digestive tract, making it less likely to form hairballs. You can ask us for dietary recommendations that might suit your cat’s needs.
Specialized cat foods and treats formulated to reduce hairballs are also available. These products are designed to promote healthy digestion and minimize the formation of hairballs. When selecting a hairball control diet, it’s always a good idea to consult with us first to make sure it fits your cat’s overall nutritional needs.
When Should You Be Concerned?
An occasional hairball is usually nothing to worry about, but there are situations where hairballs can indicate a bigger problem. If your cat is hacking or gagging without bringing up a hairball, it could be a sign of respiratory issues, such as asthma. Similarly, if your cat is coughing more than a couple of times per week, it’s time to schedule a check-up.
Sometimes, cats will attempt to expel a hairball but end up vomiting food or bile instead. This can be a sign that the hairball is causing a blockage or irritation in the stomach. We recommend giving us a call if this happens, as your cat may need an exam to rule out other causes of vomiting.
It’s also important to note that senior cats may be more prone to hairballs because their digestive systems can slow down with age. If your older cat suddenly starts coughing up hairballs more frequently, it’s worth discussing with us whether there might be an underlying health condition at play.
How We Can Help with Hairball Issues
At Boulder Veterinary Hospital, we can provide a variety of solutions if hairballs are becoming a frequent problem for your cat. After a thorough exam, we may recommend dietary changes, grooming tips, or medication to help your cat manage their hairball issues.
For cats with frequent hairballs, laxatives or digestive aids may be helpful in allowing hair to pass more easily through the digestive system. These products should only be used under veterinary guidance, as not all cats will benefit from them. During your visit, we can discuss whether these options might be appropriate for your cat.
If we suspect that your cat’s hairballs are related to an underlying health problem, we may suggest diagnostic tests, such as blood work or imaging, to check for issues like gastrointestinal disorders. Identifying the cause of the problem can help us develop a treatment plan that addresses both the hairballs and any contributing factors.
Tips for Managing Hairballs at Home
While professional help is essential in some cases, there are also steps you can take at home to reduce the chances of your cat developing hairballs. Regular brushing is one of the most effective methods, and it can also be a great way to bond with your cat. Aim to brush your cat at least a few times a week, or more frequently if they shed heavily.
Dietary adjustments can also make a difference. Adding a little extra fiber to your cat’s diet, either through specialized food or natural sources like pumpkin, can help keep their digestive system running smoothly. Be sure to talk with us before making any significant changes to your cat’s diet.
Lastly, keeping your home environment clean can reduce the amount of loose fur in the air and on surfaces, which can help cut down on how much fur your cat ingests while grooming.
Contact Us for Help with Your Cat’s Hairballs
If you’re concerned about your cat’s hairballs or if they’re showing signs of more serious issues, we’re here to help. At Boulder Veterinary Hospital, we’re happy to discuss your cat’s symptoms and recommend a course of action. Call us at (303) 442-6262 to schedule an appointment or get more information.
