Hairballs Are a Natural Result of Self-Grooming
One drawback of the cat's meticulous grooming habits is the formation of hairballs in the digestive tract. Swallowed hair accumulates in the cat’s stomach and usually either passes uneventfully in the feces or is regurgitated (vomited). Cats who groom excessively, are shedding, or frequently groom other cats may have occasional difficulty passing hairballs.
Coughing, gagging, or regurgitating within two hours of consuming a meal are signs that indicate that your cat is having trouble passing a hairball. Administering a preventive gel that lubricates the ingested hair and aids its passage through the gastrointestinal tract is usually beneficial. Most cats enjoy the taste of these preparations, so administration is very simple and quick. There are also several commercial cat foods formulated specifically to aid in hairball passage. Your veterinarian can give you advice in choosing an appropriate product if your cat is experiencing frequent hairball regurgitation.
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