Cats are constant companions and are generally low-maintenance—they even clean themselves! However, self-grooming has one potential downside: hairballs. While these are a natural occurrence in cats, you may not be sure how to deal with them. The guide below explains why they form and how you can help your cat deal with them.

What Causes Hairballs?

Cats spend a lot of their free time grooming themselves with their tongue. If you’ve ever felt your cat’s tongue, you probably noticed the rough, sandpaper-like texture. That texture can catch hair, which then enters the digestive tract. This will usually pass with no issue, but if enough hair clumps together in the stomach, it can form a hairball. To clear this build-up, your cat will vomit the hairball up.

How Can You Help Your Cat?

Helping your cat stay groomed can reduce hairballs in all breeds, but they’re more likely to occur in long-haired cats. Buy a handheld brush and make a habit of grooming your cat regularly to help them remove loose hair. Making regular appointments with a groomer can also cut down on the frequency of hairballs and protect your carpets or rugs. Feeding your cat specialized high-fiber foods can also help them pass hair, so it doesn’t have time to form hairballs. If hairballs are a regular occurrence with your cat, you can also consider introducing a vet-recommended laxative to help hairballs pass naturally.

While a hairball is a normal, albeit disgusting, occurrence, there are a few instances where your cat will need attention from a vet. If your cat is retching for an extended period without producing a hairball, experiences a sudden drop in appetite, and seems constipated or has diarrhea, they should be taken to the vet right away.

Give your cat the attention they deserve with a visit to Oak Crest Animal Hospital in Cincinnati, OH. Their team of certified veterinarians is dedicated to providing preventative and emergency care for pets at all stages of life. To learn more about their services, visit their website, or call (513) 574-3647 to schedule an appointment.