Hairballs form when cats groom themselves and swallow loose hair. Their tongues are covered in tiny barbs that catch and pull loose fur into the mouth, which is then swallowed. While most of this hair passes harmlessly through the digestive system, sometimes it clumps together in the stomach, eventually vomiting up as a hairball. This is not only unpleasant to clean up, but in some cases, can lead to dangerous gastrointestinal blockages.
In this article, we’ll analyse the causes of hairballs, how to stop hairballs in cats, effective treatment options, home remedies, and some of the best UK-based products for treating hairballs in cats. Whether you're dealing with your cat’s first hairball or looking to prevent ongoing issues, we’ve got you covered. Let's start from the basics.
What Does a Hairball Look Like?
Despite the name, hairballs are often tube-shaped, about the size and width of your little finger, and can be anywhere from 1 to 4 inches long. This shape forms as the hair travels up through the cat’s narrow esophagus before being expelled.
The texture is typically dense and matted, and it may be coated in a bit of yellowish bile or undigested food. Many UK cat owners describe it as looking like a ‘wet felt cigar’ or a ‘soggy fur sausage’—not exactly pleasant, especially if you step on one first thing in the morning.
Understanding what a hairball looks like can help you distinguish it from vomit due to illness and determine if your cat's hairball issue is within the normal range—or something that needs attention.
Can Hairballs Make Cats Sick?
Hairballs are usually harmless and part of normal feline grooming behavior—but sometimes, they can signal or cause more serious health issues. While the occasional hairball is nothing to worry about, frequent hairballs or signs of discomfort may indicate an underlying problem. When hair doesn't pass through the digestive tract properly, it can accumulate and lead to complications. If you're wondering can hairballs make cats sick, the answer is yes—especially when they become too large or frequent.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Keep an eye out for the following signs that your cat may be struggling with hairballs:
- Dry heaving or unproductive gagging
- Constipation or difficulty passing stools
- Lethargy or reduced activity levels
- Loss of appetite
- Coughing or repeated hacking without producing a hairball
- Frequent vomiting (with or without hair)
Potential Health Risks
Hairballs can occasionally cause more serious problems, such as:
- Intestinal blockages, which may require surgery
- Chronic vomiting or dehydration
- Weight loss from reduced appetite
- Respiratory discomfort if the hairball is stuck in the esophagus
How Can I Help My Cat With Hairballs?
Proactive care is the best way to keep your cat healthy and your floors hairball-free. Below are some ways to protect your cat:
Regular Brushing Is Essential
Brushing your cat regularly is one of the most effective ways to prevent hairballs. It helps remove loose hair before it can be swallowed during grooming. This is especially important in the UK’s colder months when central heating can dry out your cat’s skin and increase shedding. Long-haired breeds like Maine Coons or Persians may need daily brushing, while short-haired cats benefit from grooming two to three times a week. Regular grooming reduces the amount of fur your cat ingests and strengthens your bond at the same time.
Keep Your Cat Hydrated
Hydration plays a crucial role in helping swallowed hair pass through the digestive tract smoothly. Cats are naturally low drinkers, and the dry indoor air in UK homes—especially during winter—can make things worse. Ensure your cat always has access to fresh water, and consider using a pet water fountain to encourage more drinking. Including wet food in their diet is another effective way to boost fluid intake and reduce the chances of hairball-related constipation or blockages.
Use the Right Brushing Tools
Using the right grooming tools can make all the difference in reducing hairballs. Slicker brushes work well for general coat maintenance while de-shedding tools like the FURminator are ideal for cats that shed heavily. Rubber grooming mitts are a gentle option for short-haired or sensitive cats. These tools are readily available online. The right tool not only removes more hair but also makes grooming more enjoyable for your cat.ccc
Create a Hairball Prevention Routine
Establishing a consistent grooming and care routine helps manage hairballs before they become a problem. Make brushing a positive, stress-free experience, and watch for signs like frequent gagging or litter box irregularities. If hairballs continue despite your efforts, your vet may recommend specialized hairball-control food or a gentle laxative paste—both widely available in the UK.
Home Remedies for Cat Vomiting (Due to Hairballs)
If your cat is vomiting due to hairballs, there are several gentle, natural remedies you can try at home to ease their discomfort and reduce the frequency of vomiting. These methods support your cat’s digestion and help hair pass through the gastrointestinal tract more easily.
Add Natural Fibre to Their Diet
Fibre helps move ingested hair through the digestive system. A small spoonful of plain, cooked pumpkin can be mixed into your cat’s food a few times a week. You can also offer a few drops of olive oil once or twice weekly, which acts as a mild lubricant for the digestive tract. Always start with tiny amounts and consult your vet before introducing any dietary change.
Encourage Play and Movement
Physical activity helps stimulate your cat’s digestive system and can reduce the risk of hairballs becoming stuck. Daily play sessions with toys like feather wands, laser pointers, or treat puzzles not only improve digestion but also reduce stress—another trigger for excessive grooming and vomiting.
Maintain a Regular Feeding Schedule
Feeding your cat at consistent times each day helps regulate their digestion. Smaller, more frequent meals may be easier on the stomach and help move hair through the intestines more smoothly. Avoid long gaps between meals, as this can cause stomach upset or lead to vomiting on an empty stomach.
Best Products for Hairball Relief in Cats
If your cat struggles with frequent hairballs, there are several over-the-counter products available in the UK to help manage the issue. These products are designed to support digestion and reduce hair buildup in the stomach, making them a useful addition to your cat’s grooming routine.
Cat Hairball Paste
Hairball pastes act as gentle lubricants that help the hair pass through the digestive tract more easily. Popular UK options include Beaphar Hairball Paste, which combines malt and prebiotics for digestive support, and VetIQ Hairball Remedy Paste, which uses natural oils to reduce fur build-up. These pastes are typically palatable and can be given directly or mixed with food a few times a week.
Cat Hairball Treats
If your cat prefers snacks, hairball control treats are an easy and tasty solution. Options like Webbox Hairball Control Treats or Felix Anti-Hairball Treats are specifically formulated with fiber and added nutrients to support digestion and reduce hairball formation. They're great for picky eaters or as a complement to grooming routines.
Best Hairball Treatments and Cat Food (UK Edition)
When grooming alone isn't enough to manage hairballs, switching to a targeted diet can make a big difference. Many high-quality cat foods in the UK are specially formulated to reduce hairball formation by increasing fiber intake and supporting digestive health. These can be particularly effective as part of a long-term hairball management plan.
Top Fibre-Rich Cat Foods for Hairball Control
Two of the best cat food options for hairballs available in the UK include:
- Royal Canin Hairball Care: This dry food is specifically designed to reduce hairballs using a precise blend of fibers, including psyllium, which helps hair pass naturally through the digestive system. It’s highly rated and suitable for adult cats
- Hill’s Science Plan Hairball Control: Available in both dry and wet varieties, this formula contains natural fibers to support healthy digestion and reduce hairball formation. It's also rich in omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E to support skin and coat health
Grain-Free and Sensitive Stomach Options
For cats with food allergies or sensitivities, grain-free and gentle digestion formulas are also available:
- James Wellbeloved Grain-Free Hairball Control: Made with natural ingredients and no artificial additives, it's suitable for cats with sensitivities while still supporting hairball reduction.
- Applaws Hairball Chicken Grain-Free: A high-protein, natural dry food that supports coat health and reduces hairball risk in a grain-free formula ideal for sensitive tummies.
When to See a Vet For Hairball Issue in Cats
While occasional hairball-related vomiting is common in cats, frequent vomiting or other signs of discomfort may indicate a more serious problem. If your cat is vomiting more often than usual or displaying signs of distress, it's time to consult with a vet. Vomiting that occurs more than once or twice a month, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms, is considered too frequent. If your cat vomits multiple times a week, it could indicate an underlying health issue such as digestive problems, hairball blockages, or gastrointestinal disorders. Watch for the following signs that could suggest a hairball blockage or another health problem:
- Repeated gagging or dry heaving without bringing up a hairball
- Constipation or difficulty defecating, often with straining
- Lethargy, loss of appetite, or sudden weight loss
- Painful or swollen abdomen (indicating possible internal blockage)
- Blood in vomit or stools
FAQs
Are Hairballs Dangerous?
Hairballs are generally not dangerous for cats, especially when they pass through the digestive system naturally. However, if hairballs become too large or frequent, they can lead to blockages in the intestines or stomach, which may require medical intervention. In rare cases, untreated hairball blockages can cause serious health complications like vomiting, constipation, or dehydration. If your cat experiences frequent or severe vomiting, it’s essential to consult a vet.
Can Kittens Get Hairballs?
Yes, kittens can get hairballs, although they are less common in younger cats. Kittens groom themselves less frequently, and their hair tends to be softer and shorter. However, as they mature and their grooming habits increase, hairballs can become more of an issue. Long-haired breeds or kittens with a lot of shedding will be more prone to hairballs as they age.
Do British Shorthair Cats Get Hairballs Often?
British Shorthair cats, with their dense, plush coats, are prone to hairballs, although they typically don’t shed as much as long-haired breeds like Persians. While they’re not as likely to develop frequent hairballs, regular grooming is still essential to help manage shedding, especially during shedding seasons like autumn and spring. If you notice that your British Shorthair is frequently gagging or vomiting, a change in diet or grooming habits may be needed.
Is Hairball Vomiting Normal in Winter?
Yes, hairball vomiting can become more common during the winter months, particularly for indoor cats. This is because indoor heating can dry out the skin and increase shedding. Cats may also groom more to stay warm, leading to the ingestion of more fur. Shorter daylight hours and less access to outdoor exercise can also contribute to a buildup of hair. To manage hairballs in winter, ensure your cat is groomed regularly, stays hydrated, and has access to fiber-rich food.
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