If you have a cat, you likely see hairballs around your home. However, even though they’re a normal part of owning a feline, you might have questions about what causes them and whether they require a trip to the veterinarian. The following guide offers an introduction to this area of cat care, so you can keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

What Causes Hairballs?

Cats are self-cleaning creatures, which means they lick themselves to get rid of dirt, debris, and dander. When your furry friend swallows their fur, most of it will make it all the way through the GI tract to the litterbox. But some hair can accumulate in the stomach and esophagus. After a while, the feline will vomit up any hair that is caught in their digestive tract, leading to hairballs. Healthy hairballs are usually cylindrical in shape and can be anywhere from 1 to 5 inches long. Each cat will have their own routine, but many will make loud retching or hacking sounds prior to bringing up the undigested fur.

When Do Hairballs Warrant a Trip to the Veterinarian?

Because of the way felines groom themselves, ingesting hair is unavoidable but a natural part of a healthy digestive system. However, there are instances when hairballs indicate a problem. Any cat who is acting sick before or after producing a hairball should be checked out. Another sign that your cat isn’t feeling well is if they start to bring up more fur than usual. This issue can point to increased grooming, which could indicate stress licking, fleas, or an allergic reaction. It could also mean a problem with the GI tract or not having enough fiber in the diet. Veterinarians advise bringing your pet in if they start coughing up more than one hairball per week.

Also, pay attention to what they cough up. For example, if it seems like your cat is trying to spit out a hairball, but nothing is coming out, they may have a persistent cough that a veterinarian should treat.

If your furry friend is due for a trip to the veterinarian, bring them to see the team at Montgomery Animal Hospital in Cincinnati, OH. These professionals are backed by 65 years of experience and are proud to offer a broad range of pet care services, from dental treatments to diagnostics. We are also AAHA accredited, ensuring that your pets receive the best service possible. Give us a call today at (513) 791-7912 to schedule an appointment, and visit our website to learn more about our practice.