Fluff, Fuss, and Furballs: Why Your Cat’s Coughing Up Surprises

If you’ve ever stepped barefoot onto a cold, soggy hairball at 6am, congratulations – you’re officially a cat parent. While it might not be the most glamorous part of sharing your home with a feline friend, hairballs are a natural (if slightly revolting) side effect of your cat’s impeccable grooming routine.

Let’s dive into the fur-midable world of hairballs – what they are, why they happen, when to worry, and how to keep them to a minimum.

What Is a Hairball, Exactly?

A hairball (or trichobezoar, if you're feeling scientific) is a clump of undigested hair that accumulates in your cat’s stomach as a result of grooming. Cats have tiny barbs on their tongues that act like combs, catching loose fur and swallowing it. Most of it passes through their digestive tract harmlessly, but sometimes, it decides to hang about in the stomach and form a lovely little fur torpedo.

Eventually, your cat will cough, gag, and hurl it up in your hallway. Delightful.

Are Hairballs Normal?

Yes – up to a point.

Most cats, especially long-haired breeds like Persians and Maine Coons, will cough up the occasional hairball. However, frequent hairballs (think more than once a week) might signal an underlying issue like:

Over-grooming due to stress or skin conditions
Digestive issues
Allergies or parasites
A diet that’s not supporting proper digestion

If your cat is gagging but not producing anything, seems lethargic, or has a decreased appetite, it’s time for a vet visit.

Preventing the Fluffy Fiasco: Hairball Hacks That Help

Good news: You can help reduce hairballs. Here’s how:

Brush, Brush, Brush. Regular grooming reduces the amount of loose fur your cat ingests. Long-haired cats may need daily brushing, while short-haired kitties benefit from a few sessions per week.

Try a Hairball Control Diet. Several brands offer specially formulated foods with added fibre to help hair pass through the digestive tract more easily. Look for high-quality ingredients and consult your vet for recommendations.

Use Hairball Remedies. Hairball pastes or gels (often flavoured like malt or chicken) can help lubricate the digestive tract. Just make sure the product is feline-safe and vet-approved.

Keep Them Hydrated. Water helps everything move along, including swallowed hair. Ensure your cat has access to fresh water – and consider a pet fountain if they’re fussy drinkers.

Play More, Stress Less. Cats that over-groom due to boredom or anxiety can benefit from interactive toys, climbing spaces, and routine enrichment. A busy cat is a less furry one (on the inside, at least).

When It’s More Than Just a Hairball

Watch out for signs that might indicate a blockage or other health issue:

Persistent gagging with no results
Loss of appetite
Constipation or diarrhoea
Lethargy
Swollen or tender abdomen

If your cat shows any of these signs, don’t delay – call your vet.

Hairballs are an annoying but generally manageable part of cat parenthood. With the right grooming routine, a supportive diet, and a dash of humour, you can help your feline friend live a fluff-filled (but less gag-inducing) life.

Remember: behind every hairball is a cat who just wants to look their best. Even if it means redecorating your rug.