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If you've ever owned a cat, I'm sure you are accustomed to that horrible sound your cat makes whenever it is coughing up infamous hairballs. As cats groom themselves by licking their fur, it is to be expected that their hair is swallowed, only to be coughed up at a later date. Fortunately, if your cat is healthy, minimising the amount of hairballs produced can be easy and inexpensive.

First of all, you are going to want to frequently brush out your cat, especially a long-haired feline. Not only will this ensure that the coat is healthy and free of all loose strands of hair, which easily become swallowed, but it prevents tangling and matting. A flea comb with rounded, well-spaced teeth is ideal for combing out your cat. If you find that your pet becomes very frightened or violent when you attempt to comb it, then you might need to make an appointment with a groomer.

Secondly, you might be able to add some things to your cat's diet, or change it, to help them pass hair through their digestive system. For example, when my cat developed constipation and was constantly having hairballs, we converted to a new brand of food: Before Grain. As indicated by the name, Before Grain is cat food made without grain, which can cause constipation in cats. We also began adding a teaspoon of canned pumpkin two to three times a week to the cat's food, and when she began to eat it, she produced hairballs much less frequently. Letting your cat outside (under careful supervision, of course) can also be a good idea, as cats will naturally eat grass as a way of cleaning out their systems, due to the fiber found in the blades of grass. If you're wary about bringing your cat outside, consider pulling some grass out of the lawn and placing it in the food bowl.

Third, if none of these suggestions work, you might want to consider going to a store and purchasing something specifically for hairballs. After testing a few brands, you should be capable of finding a product that your cat will readily lick off your finger. Be sure to use it sparingly, however, so that your pet does not develop diarrhoea.

Finally, if your cat still has hairballs far too frequently and is often constipated, check to see if your cat is getting enough water. If your feline isn't drinking, a trip to the vet is probably in order, to check for any signs of illness. Your vet will also be able to suggest other hairball medications, as well as a possible change in the brand of food being given. Older cats might be given wet, canned food instead of hard food. The treats you give your cat might also be evaluated as a potential problem.

While a few hairballs are nothing to worry about (especially if you have a long-haired cat), chronic retching and constipation are definitely warning signs that something more serious might be taking place. If this occurs, especially if you find that your cat is rarely drinking (and yet you provide clean, fresh water that is easily accessed), you should call your vet as soon as possible to make an appointment.

Learn more about this author, Leigha Comer.
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