Should Cats Eat Gravy or Cat Grass for Hairballs?
Cat Hairball Syndrome
With the exception of certain unique breeds, every cat boasts a sleek and lustrous coat. To maintain their cleanliness, cats spend a considerable amount of time grooming themselves, which involves licking their fur. However, this grooming habit can inadvertently lead to a common issue known as hairball syndrome.
Hairball syndrome can cause intestinal blockages in cats, leading to symptoms such as vomiting. The primary signs include frequent dry heaving, occasional expulsion of hairfilled vomit, and sometimes, nothing at all. Additional symptoms may include constipation, hard and dry stools with hair, loss of appetite, listlessness, dull and lackluster fur, and a bloated abdomen in severe cases.
Which is Better for Cats: Hairball Remover or Cat Grass?
When comparing hairball removers to cat grass, hairball removers tend to be more effective. While cat grass or cat grass tablets can stimulate the cat's intestines, potentially causing vomiting, this is usually harmless if it occurs only a few times. However, some cats may have a more severe reaction to cat grass, leading to frequent vomiting and even affecting their appetite, which could trigger acute gastroenteritis and other intestinal issues. Hairball removers, on the other hand, work by lubricating the intestines to help expel hairballs along with feces. Therefore, feeding a hairball remover is generally a safer option. It's important to note that some hairball removers contain chemical minerals that could be harmful to cats. For a safer choice, it's recommended to use a hairball remover with safe ingredients, such as Weil's Hairball Remover, which offers a more secure formulation.
How Often Should Cats Take Hairball Remover?
1. If a cat doesn't groom excessively, feeding the hairball remover 23 times a week should suffice.
2. For cats that frequently groom, consider administering the hairball remover every 12 days.
3. Overfeeding hairball removers can lead to diarrhea, as they contain edible liquid paraffin, which is primarily used to soften stool and hairballs, aiding in bowel movements. Excessive consumption may result in diarrhea, but this usually resolves once the feeding is stopped.
Some cats may prefer cat grass, while others may dislike hairball removers. The best choice depends on the cat's personal preference. Pet owners can also tailor their choice based on their pet's likes and dislikes. However, vomiting in cats can be caused by various factors, not just hairball syndrome, such as gastroenteritis, parasites, and other issues. If you're unsure about the cause, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian or an online pet doctor. For a deeper understanding of the causes and treatments of cat vomiting, continue reading "Causes and Treatments for Cat Vomiting."
