Hairball Treatments & Remedies

When cats groom themselves, they swallow a lot of fur because of the rough surface of their tongues. This is quite normal, and a healthy cat can pass the fur through its digestive system with no issues. However, some cats can get a build-up of fur in their stomach, which causes a blockage that they must throw up.

This can happen to any cat, and if your feline friend brings up one or two furballs a month, this is probably nothing to worry about. However, if it’s more frequent, then this could indicate there is a bigger issue. Some of the most common causes of frequent hairballs are: 

• - Excessive grooming, usually caused by stress 
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• - Long-haired breeds such as Maine Coons or Persians 
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• - Intestinal tract blockage means fur cannot easily pass 

In general, hairballs are not dangerous if your cat has them occasionally and can easily pass them. If your cat has too much fur in its digestive system then big problems can occur, which will need veterinary intervention.

Warning signs to look out for: 

• - Bringing up hairballs multiple times a week 
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• - Continuous retching without bringing anything up 
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• - Digestion issues like constipation, diarrhoea, or vomiting 
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• - Refusing food
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• - Lethargy 

These can be symptoms of a much more dangerous issue such as a blockage and you should take your cat to a vet as soon as possible. 

If your cat is suffering from frequent hairballs, there are plenty of treatments that can help get their digestion back in order. 
 
One of the best things you can do to prevent hairballs is to brush your cat at least once a week. This will help reduce the amount of fur your cat ingests and is essential for good hygiene if you have a cat with a particularly fluffy coat.

Browse our cat grooming supplies to find everything you need for your furry companion. 

The frequency of giving hairball medicine to your cat depends on the type of remedy you are using and the severity of the hairball problem.

Generally, lubricating gels like Laxapet or similar products are given two or three times a week. It's important to follow the product guidance and consult with your vet if you have any questions.

Some hairball control treats, food or supplements can be used daily as part of regular diet maintenance. 

Yes, certain furball remedies can help keep hairballs at bay by improving your cat's digestion and reducing the buildup of hair in their system. Products like lubricating gels or fibre-rich treats make it easier for your cat to pass ingested hair naturally.

Regular grooming is also a big help, especially for long-haired cats, as it reduces the amount of loose hair they might swallow while cleaning themselves.

Wet cat food can play an important role in managing hairballs due to its high moisture content. The increased hydration helps support healthy digestion and can assist in moving ingested hair more effectively through the cat's system. 

This not only aids in the natural process of hair passing through the digestive tract but also reduces the likelihood of hairballs forming.