Cat Hairball Symptoms & Reasons: Understanding Feline V

Section 1: Why Do Cats Regurgitate Hairballs?

Cats are naturally inclined to groom themselves, often舔 and comb their fur. During the normal process of metabolism, hair that falls out can be ingested along with their grooming. However, this hair is not easily digestible. Over time, a significant amount of hair can accumulate in the stomach or the small intestine, forming hairballs. These hairballs can irritate the stomach lining, triggering a vomiting reflex and leading to the phenomenon of regurgitation.

Section 2: Symptoms of Hairball Syndrome in Cats

Cats suffering from hairball syndrome may exhibit certain discomforting symptoms. The most common sign is frequent dry heaving, and sometimes they may vomit hairballs. In some cases, they may not be able to bring anything up at all, and their bowel movements can be affected, resulting in days without a bowel movement. When they do defecate, the stool is often dry and hard. Other signs include a lack of energy, dullness, rough and lackluster coat, bloating, and a decrease in appetite.

Section 3: What to Do If a Cat Can't Regurgitate a Hairball?

When a cat is unable to regurgitate or digest a hairball, you can use a hairball gel or provide access to a cat grass garden to help expel the hairball. Additionally, to effectively prevent the occurrence of hairball syndrome, it's important to regularly groom your cat's fur during daily routines.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on hairball syndrome in cats, you can read our article "What to Do If Your Cat Throws Up a Hairball." Click here to learn more.