A normal part of feline life, cat hairballs are not an uncommon thing. Cats groom themselves daily, swallowing loose fur that usually passes through the digestive system. But when that hair collects and forms a dense mass, it can cause an intestinal blockage in a cat. A serious condition, hair blockage should never be ignored. It can lead to pain, vomiting, and even life-threatening complications. Long-haired breeds, frequent groomers, and cats with digestive issues are especially at risk.
This article sheds light on how, with proper grooming, diet, and care, you can greatly reduce the chances of intestinal blockage in cats and keep your feline friend in good health.
5 Causes Of Hairball Blockage In Cats
Occasional hairballs are normal, but a hairball blockage in cats is not. Here is why it happens:
Excessive Grooming
Stress, allergies, or skin irritation can cause over-grooming. More grooming means more swallowed fur, increasing the risk of cat hairball problems.
Thick, Long Fur
Certain feline breeds (like Persians and Maine Coons) face cat hairball problems because their fur mats easily in their stomach.
Poor Digestive Motility
When digestion slows, hair cannot move smoothly through the intestines, leading to cat digestive issues and blockages.
Low-Fibre Diet
Fibre helps push hair through the digestive tract. A poor diet raises the risk of needing a hairball remedy for cats.
Underlying Health Conditions
Obesity, dehydration, or gastrointestinal disease reduces gut movement, increasing the chances of intestinal blockage in cats.
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Hairball Blockage Symptoms In Cats
Not all hairballs are harmless. Watch for these signs of blockage in cats:
· Repeated vomiting without producing a hairball
· Loss of appetite
· Constipation or no bowel movement
· Abdominal swelling or pain
If your cat shows these symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately. A cat vomiting hairballs occasionally is normal, but persistent signs may indicate a dangerous obstruction.
When Is A Hairball An Emergency?
A stuck hairball can become life-threatening. Contact a vet if your cat has a bloated stomach, continuous vomiting, and no stool for more than twenty-four hours, or a sudden hiding behaviour. These are signs of hairball stuck cat that requires urgent veterinary care.
Also Read: Cat Health: Why Are Feline Supplements Taking Off? Top 5 Ways to Keep Your Pet Healthy
How To Prevent Hairballs In Cats
Hairball prevention is an important part of keeping your cat’s digestive system healthy. Knowing the cat hairball symptoms and prevention methods can protect your pet from serious health risks. The following changes in your cat’s routine can make a big difference in preventing hairballs.
Regular Brushing
Brushing removes loose fur and reduces the risk of swallowing, which is the best way to stop hairballs in cats.
Hairball Control Diet
Choose high-fibre food to support the cat's digestive health and natural hair elimination. However, it is best to use food options and remedies recommended by a veterinarian to ensure safety and correct dosage.
Proper Hydration
Adequate water intake plays a vital role in your cat’s digestive health. When a cat is well hydrated, the digestive system functions more smoothly, allowing swallowed hair to move more easily through the stomach and intestines instead of forming hard clumps.
Hairball Remedies
Vet-approved gels, pastes, and lubricants are commonly used as a hairball remedy for cats. These products coat the swallowed hair and the digestive tract, helping the hair move smoothly through the intestines rather than forming a blockage. Many contain mild laxatives or petroleum-based ingredients that ease the passage of hair through stool.
Reduce Stress
Stress, boredom, and anxiety in animals lead to excessive grooming, which increases swallowed fur and raises the risk of hairballs. Providing mental and physical stimulation can significantly reduce over-grooming. Use interactive pet toys and regular play sessions to keep your cat engaged.
References:
Probiotics and Cat Health: A Review of Progress and Prospects
Musu Zha, Shimin Zhu, Yongfu Chen
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11205573/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3317329/
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