Optimal Frequency for Feeding Cat Grooming Paste

What is the Purpose of Cat Grooming Waxes?

Cats are meticulous groomers, often ingesting loose fur while cleaning themselves. This, combined with other foreign objects they might swallow, can lead to the formation of hairballs in their stomachs. When hairballs accumulate to a certain point, they can irritate the cat's intestines, causing vomiting, a condition known as trichobezoars. In severe cases, hairballs can even block the intestines, leading to megacolon. Cat grooming waxes are designed to aid in the smooth passage of hair through the digestive system, preventing trichobezoars and the onset of megacolon.

It's important to note that grooming waxes do not actually dissolve hair; instead, they work by providing an oilbased lubrication that promotes the excretion of hair along with feces. Technically, they are referred to as intestinal lubricants.

The primary ingredient in grooming waxes is oil, typically mineral oil. However, frequent use of products containing mineral oil can lead to vitamin A deficiency in cats, which can cause significant harm over time. Therefore, it's recommended to opt for grooming waxes like Weilou, which are free from mineral oil and instead use wheat germ oil and barley fiber. These ingredients are safer for cats, and Weilou's cat grass trichobezoar tablets, which are plantbased and free from chemical mineral oil, are particularly suitable for kittens aged 08 months.

When Can Cats Start Eating Grooming Waxes?

There's some debate about when cats should start consuming grooming waxes. Some say around 34 months, while others suggest 78 months. Which is correct?

Generally, cats are vaccinated and dewormed at around 34 months, a time when their immune systems are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, cats don't learn to regurgitate hairballs until they are about 8 months old. Therefore, it's more advisable for pet owners to introduce grooming waxes to their cats when they reach 8 months of age.

How Often Should Cats Eat Grooming Waxes?

Now that we understand the purpose of grooming waxes and the age at which cats should start consuming them, you might wonder if all cats need grooming waxes and when they should take them.

Whether they have long or short fur (except for hairless cats), all cats should consume grooming waxes during their shedding periods, which typically occur in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

Longhaired cats should be given grooming waxes 12 times a week during shedding, while shorthaired cats should be given them every two weeks. For longhaired cats not in shedding season, it's recommended to feed them grooming waxes once every 12 weeks, and shorthaired cats should be fed them once a month.

Remember, not all vomiting in cats is caused by hairballs. If you notice your cat vomiting frequently and the vomit does not contain hair, grooming waxes may not be the solution. In such cases, it's best to take your cat to the nearest veterinary hospital for a checkup or consult with an online veterinary doctor to determine if the cat is suffering from gastrointestinal disease or another infectious condition.