Understanding Why Cats Don't Vomit Hairballs: Possible
Where Do the Hairs Cats Swallow Go?
When cats lick up their fur, it travels down the esophagus and into the stomach, where it mixes with other food and is churned by stomach acids before moving on to the small intestine.
Some cats' stomachs identify the fur as "foreign matter," sending a signal to the brain, which then commands vomiting. This response can vary depending on the amount of fur and the condition of the stomach.
When cats vomit in this manner, it's a natural process to expel foreign objects, so there's no need to worry excessively.
Once in the small intestine, the fur is then transported to the large intestine. Both the small and large intestines are organs responsible for absorbing nutrients from food, but fur has no nutrients to absorb, so it passes through safely. If the fur reaches the large intestine, there's nothing to worry about; it will be eliminated with the cat's feces.
Whether a cat vomits fur or not can vary greatly from one cat to another. Cats that do vomit fur often have a higher frequency of grooming, which can be a sign of excessive licking. Different cats have different grooming frequencies, and they may groom more when they feel scared, anxious, or stressed, using it as a way to calm themselves. If a cat suddenly starts grooming more frequently, it might be worth considering if there's something causing them stress or unease.
What is Hairball Syndrome in Cats?
Typically, cats expel fur through vomiting or feces. However, some cats may experience a buildup of fur in the stomach, forming a hairball. This condition, known as hairball syndrome, can obstruct the stomach's entrance and exit, preventing food from passing through smoothly and causing severe vomiting. If this condition persists, it can lead to dehydration, so if a cat vomits repeatedly within a day, it's best to take them to a veterinarian for a checkup.
How to Prevent Hairball Syndrome in Cats
Preventing hairball syndrome can be achieved through three methods.
Firstly, regular grooming is essential. If your cat dislikes steel combs, try a silicone one. Choose a material your cat enjoys to make grooming a more enjoyable experience.
Secondly, consider trimming your cat's fur, which is more common in longhaired cats. If your longhaired cat often has hairballs, you might want to try keeping them short to observe any changes. Some cats may reduce their grooming frequency after a haircut. However, since fur provides insulation, it's best to choose an appropriate season for trimming.
Lastly, switch your cat's food. Some cat foods contain fiber that helps cats expel fur more easily. Mix some hairballhelping cat food into their regular diet and monitor the results.
