How to Stop Cat Hairballs

Any cat owner knows that although common, cat hairballs create an unpleasant scenario on the rug, the couch, and on really unlucky days, the bed. If you are tired of following your cat around with cleaning products, there are a few ways you can decrease the number of hairballs he generates. Use these tips to reduce cat hairballs in your home:

Help with the Grooming

Cats are notorious self-groomers, but that doesn’t mean they couldn’t use a little help.  Certain cat breeds have much fuller coats that require regular grooming and brushing to avoid painful and cumbersome mats. The more regularly you groom your cat, the less loose hair will be there when they groom themselves. The less hair they encounter, the less will end up in their stomach and eventually make its way back up and onto some surface of your home. Invest in a quality cat brush and spend as much time as you can grooming your kitty. Starting to groom your cat when she is young will help you teach her to like the experience, which makes it much easier for you to get it done. Grooming your cat regularly is one of the best ways to decrease the number of hairballs you see in your house.

Reduce Cat Hairballs Through Diet

There are certain foods designed to help decrease the number of hairballs your cat will have. These foods are often high in fiber, so your kitty can pass the hair in a different way (that will live safely inside the litter box). These foods also have fatty acids, which can actually improve the health of your cat’s skin and coat. 

Try to Get Your Cat to Stop Grooming

Some cats will still groom incessantly even if they get brushed every day. If your cat loves to spend minutes grooming daily, there are ways to distract him and teach him a different behavior. Grab his attention with a fun toy or a mid-day cuddle session when you start to see him groom. Whether you use a laser pointer or invest in a new, engaging toy, these distractions will help you reduce the amount of time your cat spends self-grooming, which can significantly decrease hairballs. 

Ask for Help with Cat Hairballs

Your veterinarian is a great resource for decreasing cat hairballs. During your next wellness visit, try to ask the vet for a homeopathic remedy, supplements, or other products that can help you avoid hairballs in your home. If your cat has a lot of hairballs, it is very important to discuss it with the veterinarian. Sometimes hair can get stuck in the intestinal tract, which can lead to blockages that could lead to serious health issues. Routine veterinary visits give the medical team the opportunity to spot any potential issues early, and to ensure your favorite feline remains healthy.

At Oakland Veterinary Referral Services, we believe there is power in education, which is why we provide so many resources about pet ownership. To learn more about our emergency and specialty veterinary services, or to schedule an appointment, please call (248) 334-6877.