Preventing Hairballs
Preventing or at least reducing cat hairballs is always a good idea. When your cat vomits a hairball, it is not only disgusting but can be dangerous. The more often your cat throws up a hairball the more often they risk a complication.
One of the most effective way to reduce or eliminate cat hairballs is with regular grooming. Long haired cats are more suseptible to hairballs than short hair cats. That's why is is so important to be sure to have your long haired cats regularly. Short haired and long haired cats will both reduce hairballs with a daily brushing to remove loose hair.
You actually may find that your cat will come to appreciate a short daily grooming to eliminate hairballs. Your cat may love the daily attention and show lots of affection when you are done. Not only does regular grooming reduce and eliminate hairballs but your cat will be all around healthier. You can also buy a brush that you can mount on the floor or wall.
Your cat will use the brush to groom themselves without licking and eating the hair that causes hairballs..
If your cat does have hairballs you can help them to get them out. A natural way that outdoor cats help themselves to remove hairballs is by eating grass. Your veterinarian may also offer you some medication. Be sure that your cat has lots of fresh water as well. A well hydrated cat will have an easier time clearing hairballs than a mildly dehydrated cat.
Serious Hairball Warning Signs
Watch how much your car is eating. If your cat suddenly stops eating for a day or two they may have a lrage hairball in their stomach that they can't pass. A sudden decrease in your cats appetite is always a warning sign that should be taken seriously and warrants a trip to the vet.
Your veterinarian will be easily able to diagnose an unusually large hairball in your cat. MOst hairballs can be handled with laxatives or other medications that are specifically made and prescribed for cats. Laxatives should only be given to your cat to help with hairballs under your vets supervision.
There are also cat treat that help to reduce hairballs. They work well when consistently used. You'll also notice that some cat food are specially formulated to prevent hairballs. You will find that foods, treats, and especially proper grooming will reduce or even eliminate hairballs completely.