If you’re a cat owner, you may have seen your furry friend chew on hairballs from time to time. Hairballs in cats are a common problem, but do you know what the causes and symptoms are? And how do you help your cat deal with hairballs?
In this article, we will answer these questions and more. So, if you want to know more about the symptoms of hairballs in cats and how to treat them, keep reading!
Hairballs are what they look like: hairballs that a cat has ingested.
Cats have a habit of grooming themselves by licking their fur. When cats groom themselves, they swallow a lot of fur. It accumulates in their digestive tract, forming a ball which they spit up or vomit. Some loose hair they ingest gets stuck in their digestive tract when they do this. Most of it will pass through the intestines in their stool. But part of it may remain in the stomach, forming a hairball.
Hairballs can vary in size and frequency, and they can cause health problems if left untreated.. Although difficult to clean up, hairballs are not always a significant problem unless they are frequent and cause your cat discomfort or pain.
#1 Cough and hack
Cats have to swallow their hair while grooming, which settles in their stomach. The hair continues to accumulate until it forms a hairball that lodges in his intestine.
When the hairball grows, it can be difficult to expel, leading to coughing and hacking. These sounds usually indicate that your feline friend is trying to clear a hairball stuck in its throat.
#2 Loss of appetite or vomiting
When a hairball is too big to pass, it can prevent your cat from eating or drinking, causing a loss of appetite. Alternatively, the hairball may remain in the intestinal tract, resulting in a blockage which can lead to vomiting and constipation.
Therefore, it is crucial to monitor your cat’s food intake and ensure that they drink plenty of water to prevent hairball buildup.
#3 Lethargy and excessive grooming
Cats love to rest and sleep, but it may be time to check for hairballs if your cat seems depressed, lacks energy, or sleeps more than usual. Hairballs can make your cat uncomfortable and irritate the stomach, leading to fatigue and lethargy.
Also, suppose you notice your cat grooming excessively. In this case, it’s a sign that your cat is trying to eliminate the hairballs, so watch for this behavior.
#4 Abdominal discomfort and diarrhea
When hairballs block the digestive tract, it can lead to inflammation and abdominal pain in cats. Your cat may feel discomfort when you touch her belly or change your posture to avoid pain.
Additionally, the hairball can cause constipation, sometimes resulting in stomach upset, diarrhea, or even blood in the stool. Therefore, you must consult the veterinarian immediately if you notice such symptoms.
#5 Behavioral Changes
Finally, hairballs can affect your cat’s overall mood and behavior. They may become restless, irritable or even show signs of depression. Therefore, it is essential to check for hairballs if you notice sudden or unexplained changes in your cat’s behavior.
If your cat is already showing symptoms of hairballs, there are some treatments you can try.
The easiest method is to incorporate anti-hairball foods into your cat’s diet. These specialty foods contain added fiber that promotes healthy digestion, preventing the buildup of stomach hair.
If hairballs are already a problem, try grooming your cat more often. Regular grooming sessions help remove excess fur before your cat can swallow it, reducing the chances of hairball blockage. Brushing your cat’s coat daily can also help improve coat health, leaving it looking sleek and shiny.
But if your cat is suffering from serious hairball problems, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian. They can provide professional advice on the best hairball treatment options for your pet.
Cats are adorable animals that require the utmost care and attention. Hairballs are natural problems that most cats have to deal with. Cat owners should recognize the signs and provide proper care to their pets when needed.
If symptoms persist or worsen, always consult a veterinarian to ensure their well-being. With a little care and attention, you can help keep your cat healthy, happy, and free of hairballs.
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