How To Help A Cat Cough Up A Hairball

How to Help a Cat Cough Up a Hairball

Yes. Retention of fetal membranes (afterbirth/placenta), metritis, mastitis, and eclampsia are among conditions that can affect a pregnant woman (milk fever). Membrane Retention in the Fetus When a cat does not successfully pass the final set of fetal membranes after childbirth is complete, the membranes will breakdown within her uterus, and the cat will be dead. The queen may frequently display indications of restlessness and stomach pain as a result of this, and she may be reluctant to settle down with her offspring.

An inspection will find that she has a high body temperature, and probing of her abdomen will disclose that she has an enlarged uterus.

In order to trigger the ejection of the retained membranes, antibiotic therapy is required, as is the administration of additional drugs.

Metritis and endometritis are two separate kinds of uterine inflammation that often manifest themselves within three days following childbirth.

As opposed to fetal membrane retention, the cat’s illness is considerably more visible.
Increased thirst and the possibility of vomiting are possible side effects.
An abdominal mass can be felt, as can a thickening of the uterus when palpated.
Mastitis.
It is most often limited to a single gland in the body, although it might affect many.
Congestion can be removed quickly if the condition is produced by light heat applied to the teat orifice followed by gentle massage.
The cat may have appetite loss (anorexia), will be sluggish, and will develop a fever if an infection is present.

An abscess may appear as a purple patch of pus accumulating around the wound if one has formed.

Eclampsia, often known as Milk Fever, is a viral illness that affects the body’s ability to produce energy.

Milk fever is caused by a sudden drop in the amount of calcium circulating in the bloodstream, which is associated with heavy demands of milk production.

Usually, the sick cat is nursing a big litter of kittens when the problem occurs.

Tetanic (or inflexible, stiff-legged) muscle spasms might result, which can be followed by convulsions or even coma, depending on the severity of the condition.

Treatment with intravenous calcium formulations results in a dramatic improvement in the disease.

Cats should be separated from their kittens when they are old enough; otherwise, they should be fed extra food.

In the event of a subsequent litter, any afflicted cat should only be permitted to produce a minimal number of kittens. If you are considering mating an afflicted queen, you should consider the fact that lactation tetany is likely to repeat in successive litters.

1 Apply hairball paste on your cat’s follicles to encourage them to move. This sort of paste, which is designed particularly for cats, works as a lubricant for the hairball and is applied topically. Putting a small amount on your cat’s paw will result in the animal licking it off

Apply a thin strip of the paste to the cat’s fur to get started. If your cat brushes it off its front paw, try applying it softly below the front elbow of the cat’s front paw. Hairball pastes are available in a variety of tastes that your cat is sure to appreciate, such as salmon. Simply placing some on a dish and allowing your cat to lick it may be sufficient. Generally, you’ll have to apply the hairball paste to your cat several times before it stops shedding. Once or twice a day for 3 to 5 days, give your cat the paste to help him get rid of the hairball

2 A 1 2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) of petroleum jelly can be used as a low-cost alternative. When applied to your cat, this home treatment can serve as a laxative, which can assist in moving the hairball. Apply the jelly on one of your cat’s paws so that he or she may lick it off. If possible, massage it in a little to make it more difficult for the cat to shake it off.

Try placing it in a location where it will be more difficult for your cat to shake it off, such as below the front leg if your cat does shake it off.

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s3 Give your cat 4-6 hairball cure treats to keep hairballs at bay in the future. At your local pet store, you’ll discover a variety of different types of dry hairball cure treats. However, while these treats may assist your cat in passing its hairball, they are most effective in avoiding future hairballs. Follow the guidelines on the packaging to determine how many to give your cat.

Because there is no messy paste or gel involved, they are a simple solution. A lot of the time, your cat will just munch them down. Once your cat has passed its hairball, continue to feed it the hairball treatment treats to keep hairballs from forming in the future.

4 For a long-term solution, consider feeding your cat a hairball-controlling cat food. Changing your cat’s food may be beneficial in dealing with the present hairball problem. However, it is more likely to aid in the prevention of other incidents in the future. Look for a product that promises to provide “hairball management.”

This diet uses a variety of strategies to cure hairballs, including boosting the amount of fiber or omega-3 fatty acids in the food
And

Five, mix one tablespoon of canned pumpkin into your cat’s diet. Pumpkin includes fiber, which may be beneficial in helping your cat pass a hairball. Incorporate it into your cat’s canned food to increase his or her willingness to consume it.

Wheatgrass powder, coconut fiber powder, and psyllium seed husk powder are some of the other fiber choices you might explore. Toss a 1 2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) or so of the powder into the cat’s wet food.

6 Pour a one-fourth teaspoon (1.2 mL) of olive oil into your cat’s food and mix well. It may be mixed in with wet cat food or even a little amount of dry cat food. Olive oil has a slight laxative effect, which aids in the movement of the hairball.

While you can use this therapy on a regular basis, you should avoid using it on a weekly basis. Meat-based fatty acids are preferred by your cat’s body

1 Keep an eye out for a decrease of appetite. Keep an eye on your cat if he or she abruptly stops eating, especially if the behavior persists for more than a day. That’s an indication that your cat needs to see a veterinarian to find out what’s wrong with him.

It is possible that your cat’s digestive tract is being obstructed by a hairball if he is not eating.

The absence of food might be a symptom that a hairball has obstructed your cat’s digestion.

It’s also a good idea to check to see whether your cat is defecating. If it isn’t, then it most likely has a blockage and should be examined by a veterinarian. Alternatively, your cat may be suffering from diarrhea as a result of being unable to pass through the obstruction.

Third, check on the cat’s digestion and energy levels. Put your hand on the cat’s tummy and rub it. If it is more difficult to breathe than usual, this might suggest an obstruction. Your cat may also appear to be extremely languid, as though it lacks the necessary energy to perform much. Advertisement

1 If your cat is displaying a number of symptoms, take it to the veterinarian. If your cat’s breathing is severely restricted, home treatments may not be sufficient. In fact, if left untreated, blockages might result in your cat’s death since he would be unable to digest his food.

Furthermore, it’s possible that the condition isn’t a hairball at all, and you’ll need to consult with your veterinarian to find out.

2 Be prepared to undergo a physical examination. The veterinarian will examine the cat with their hands first, as this is the most comfortable method. They could press their fingers against the cat’s tummy to test whether it is firm. They will also perform a visual examination of the animal.

2 You should expect to be subjected to a physical assessment. In order to properly examine the cat, the veterinarian will first use their hands. In order to determine whether the cat’s stomach is firm, they may feel the stomach of the cat. A visual examination will also be performed on the cat.

3Be prepared to undergo diagnostic testing. Blood tests will very certainly be required by your veterinarian. Your cat may also be subjected to X-rays or an ultrasound by the veterinarian. These tests can assist your veterinarian in determining whether and where your cat has a blockage, allowing them to select the most effective course of therapy. 4 Be prepared for your cat to spend a few days at the veterinarian’s office. The vet will most likely detain your cat at the clinic if he or she has a blockage in the intestines. They’ll provide a laxative to your cat to see whether it resolves the blockage, while attentively monitoring the animal’s digestive process.

When a cat’s obstruction isn’t severe enough to necessitate hospitalization, your veterinarian will provide recommendations for home therapies such as mineral oil.

5Consider whether or not surgery is an option. If your cat develops a blockage caused by a hairball, it may be necessary to perform surgery to clear it. If your cat’s condition is severe enough to necessitate surgery, your veterinarian will inform you of this. Advertisement

1 Pay attention to how your cat hacks. Cats who suffer from asthma adopt a distinctive hacking stance when they cough. When they are hacking, they usually squat down and stretch their neck forward to avoid being seen. You should keep an eye out to see whether your cat adopts this stance.

If your cat finds itself in this posture and does not cough up any mucus on a regular basis, it may be suffering from asthma.

2 Instead of listening for a hack, listen for a cough. While cat coughing may appear to be hacking, it is more likely to be wheezing in nature. In addition, it can sound like a “dry” or “wet” cough
Yet, it may appear that your cat is coughing up mucus and then swallowing it
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3 Pay close attention to indicators that your cat is having difficulty breathing. It may appear that your cat is “winded” more frequently than usual. After a few minutes of running around, you may even hear wheezing-like breathing.

In the event that your cat is having a really difficult time breathing, it may choose to breathe via its mouth.

In the event that your cat gets hairballs, groom it every day until the problem is resolved. Hairballs are frequently preventable! Your cat develops hairballs as a result of ingesting its own fur during grooming. If you brush away the fur, your cat will not be tempted to eat it. If your cat is now or has recently had hairballs, brush it everyday until just a small amount of fur is collected by the grooming brush. You may then change your grooming plan to accommodate the length of its coat.

There might be a buildup of shed hair on your cat’s coat, which is creating the hairballs. Even short-haired cats shed and require grooming on a regular basis.

Your cat’s hairballs might be caused by a buildup of shed hair on its coat. The grooming of even short-haired cats is necessary.

After each grooming session, be sure to clean your comb and brush.

3 Short-haired cats should be brushed twice a week to keep their coat under control. Even short-haired cats shed, which means they must be groomed on a regular basis. This aids in the prevention of hairballs and the maintenance of a lustrous coat. Give your cat lots of pets while you’re grooming him to make the process more pleasurable for both of you. You should also offer the cat snacks as a reward for its good behavior.

After each grooming session, be sure to clean your brush thoroughly.

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About This Article

Summary of the Article 1/2 teaspoon of petroleum jelly can be given to your cat to help it cough up a hairball. The jelly acts as a laxative, allowing your cat to pass the hairball naturally. Alternatively, you may apply some hairball paste on its paw, which you can purchase at a pet supply store. When it licks its paw, the paste will be swallowed and the hairball will be dislodged from its stomach. As an alternative, you may mix in a scoop of canned pumpkin into your cat’s diet, which might be beneficial because pumpkin has fibers that aid with digestion.

Purchase cat food branded “hairball control” if you are looking for a long-term solution to the problem of hairballs in your cat.

Continue reading for information on how to determine whether your cat is experiencing difficulties breathing.

The writers of this page have together authored a page that has been read 168,425 times.

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Some cat owners believe that their pet passes a hairball on a daily basis, but this is not the case. The majority of the time, cats should only develop hairballs once or twice a month, if at all. When cats brush themselves, the majority of the hairs they consume will pass through their digestive system and out into the litter box without issue. However, if your cat develops hairballs on a regular basis, it’s a good idea to take them to the doctor. Cat hairballs in large quantities might be a sign of a problem with the gastrointestinal tract, and it is advisable to have this checked out as soon as possible in this situation.

When cats are anxious, they tend to over-groom – similar to how we bite our fingernails – and as a result, they eat more hair, resulting in more hairballs in the litter box.

Which cats produce more hairballs?

In most cases, cat hairballs are a normal component of a cat’s instinctual grooming routine and are not a cause for concern. Kittens and younger cats tend to have less hairballs than older cats and kittens because they are less particular about their grooming. Older cats, on the other hand, may have become more finicky and may be more prone to producing hairballs.

Fluffy cats are the ideal companion, but they are also susceptible to generating more hairballs on a more frequent basis. Generally speaking, cats with longer coats, such as Persians and Maine Coons, create more natural hairballs because their hair gathers into a clump more quickly.

How to help a cat with hairballs

When a cat gets hairballs, many cat owners are anxious because it appears that the cat is choking or having difficulty breathing. What is the most effective method for owners to assist a cat in throwing up a hairball? Allowing your cat lots of room is the most effective way to help them with hairballs, even if it is terrible to see them squirming and choking. To be able to vomit the hairball, it is totally natural for your cat to gag numerous times. The trick is to remain calm and watch your cat to ensure that the hairball is brought up and then that they stop gagging when it is.

Hairball treatment for cats

When your cat has hairballs, it’s natural to question what therapies are available to help him or her. There are several home cures available on the internet, particularly for oils and lubricants. However, we do not recommend that you attempt these. Alternatively, you may purchase a specific cat hairball treatment paste that contains a laxative and lubricant to assist them in passing through the digestive tract. However, in most cases, this is not necessary. If you do decide to use it, make sure to follow the directions to the letter.

These kibble-based products include a high amount of fiber, which aids in the passage of extra fur through the digestive tract.

Finally, in extreme occurrences of hairballs, veterinarians might prescribe medications to alleviate the condition.

When can cat hairballs become dangerous?

Hairballs are quite innocuous in and of themselves. To the contrary, if your cat is walking about the house and frequently retching without showing any signs of having a hairball (and especially if they’ve lost their appetite and are hesitant to eat), you should take them to the veterinarian right away. It’s possible that the hairball has traveled from their stomach to their gut. This is a dangerous ailment that should be treated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. If your cat exhibits any of the following cat hairball symptoms, you should take them to the veterinarian:

Gagging, vomiting, and retching over an extended period of time without generating a hairball
A decrease in appetite
Lethargy
Constipation or diarrhoea in the cat
An excessive amount of grass nibbling
Stomach that is bloated or sensitive

How do cat hairballs get diagnosed?

When it comes to diagnosing cat hairballs, there are a variety of options available to veterinarians. An x-ray or a physical examination may be required. In severe circumstances, surgery may be required to remove the hairball if it has grown to a significant size; however, this can be quite expensive in terms of veterinary expenditures. Asthma symptoms such as constant retching (with no trace of a hairball) and fatigue are also possible. The vet should be able to determine what is causing the problem.

In most cases, it is common for cats to pass hairballs on occasion.

If your cat is throwing up a hairball every few weeks or continuously for more than 48 hours at a period, you should be concerned. This is a symptom that too much hair is ending up in the cat’s digestive tract and should be investigated.

How can you help prevent hairballs in cats?

Although there is no way to totally prevent hairballs from developing, there are a few things you may do to make the process easier.

Tips and Advice on Hairballs in Senior Cats

It’s totally normal for your cat to cough up a hairball every now and then (even if it does sound a bit worrisome!) and this is completely normal. But, as your cat ages, does this pose an issue for you? Dr. Brian Faulkner, a veterinarian with Petplan, addresses our concerns about furball facts and outlines the signs to look out for.

Q How do hairballs form?

AY Grooming with our cat’s tongue is a breeze, thanks to its small backward-facing barbs, which assist to pick up stray hairs and remove them from her coat. This is excellent for avoiding matting, but because those barbs also prevent your cat from spitting the hair back out, she will wind up ingesting it with every lick. When this happens, the hair accumulates into a little ball in your cat’s stomach, where it normally passes out securely and gently with her feces. Occasionally, a hairball will not pass normally and your cat will vomit up a little sausage-shaped ball of fur in addition to the usual hairball.

When this occurs, she will attempt to regurgitate it, and you will hear the characteristic retching noises that accompany it.

Q How can you tell when a hairball is a problem?

A When a cat has a furball, the most common symptom is what is known as a ‘cough-gag-retch’ sound. This is so-called because it can be difficult for even veterinarians to determine whether a cat is coughing (clearing the airways by pushing air out of the lungs), gagging (making throat movements to clear an object that has become stuck), or retching (a noise associated with dry-heaving and vomiting). Hairballs and retching are normal in cats, but if your cat is gagging every few weeks or for more than 48 hours at a stretch, she may be ingesting too much extra hair, which might be causing her to vomit.

If you observe your cat licking herself more than normal, or if any bald spots form on her body, it’s a good idea to talk to your veterinarian about having her tested for allergies.

A bile-producing cat, on the other hand, may indicate pancreatitis, and you should take your cat to the veterinarian as soon as you can after seeing this.

If your cat doesn’t pass the hairball and these indicators persist for more than two to three days, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to ensure that nothing else is wrong with him.

Q Are furballs a cause for concern in older cats?

Most older cats continue to encounter hairballs in the same manner as they did when they were younger, but constipation may be a problem for these cats and – in rare cases – can result in serious health consequences for them. The reason for this is because as cats age, the passage of food through their digestive systems becomes slower, which can result in constipation. Cats that endure discomfort when defecating (such as those suffering from arthritis) may also have constipation more frequently.

If you notice that your cat isn’t using her litter tray as frequently as she used to and appears sluggish, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to ensure that nothing is wrong.

Q Is that retching noise always due to a furball?

A It is difficult to distinguish hairballs from other dangerous health issues, such as feline asthma, because they are so similar in appearance. If your cat is suffering from both a dry cough and a painful throat (laryngitis) at the same time, she may make a retching sound that sounds like she is coughing up a hairball, which may indicate that she is suffering from both conditions at the same time. For this reason, if you’re in any question about which ailment your cat may be suffering from, consult your veterinarian for guidance.

Q Do furballs ever need veterinary treatment?

If your cat’s bowel becomes blocked as a result of hairballs, he or she may require treatment from your veterinarian. While it is extremely unusual, some senior cats might suffer from constipation, which can result in a hairball, which can then create more complications. So, if your cat was afflicted by hairballs when she was younger, or if her litter-box habits aren’t as consistent as they used to be, your veterinarian may recommend an anti-furball laxative. Your cat’s gut is de-fluffed as a result of the thick, sticky nature of the product, which collects all of the hair and excretes it safely in her feces.

Q Any prevention tips?

A light brushing of your cat on a regular basis may surely assist, and you should aim for once-a-day grooming sessions for longhaired breeds and once-a-week grooming sessions for shorthaired cats as a general rule. A dry food with anti-hairball properties may also be appropriate if your cat is susceptible to furballs. In addition to providing vitamins and minerals to enhance the health of your cat’s fur and decrease hair loss, these kibble-based diets often provide enough of fiber to help’sweep’ any unwanted fur through her digestive tract.

If your cat is coughing or choking on a frequent basis, you should never assume that it is due to a hairball.

What to Do About Hairballs in Cats

There are no two ways about it: Ictus hairballs are a pain in the neck. In addition to being unpleasant for the person responsible for cleaning them up, they can cause intestinal obstructions, which can be a significant health concern for your cat. Assuming that cats will groom themselves, what can you do to ensure that hairballs are kept to a bare minimum?

What Causes Hairballs in Cats?

However, despite the fact that hairballs are nasty, they are caused by your cat’s healthy and meticulous grooming practice. When your cat grooms itself, small hook-like structures on the back of their tongue collect loose and dead hair, which is subsequently eaten by the cat. The bulk of this hair is able to travel through the digestive tract without causing any complications. However, if enough hair remains in the stomach, it might congeal and create a hairball. Usually, your cat will vomit the hairball in order to get rid of it completely.

Hairballs in cats are more common in long-haired breeds, such as Persians and Maine Coons, than in short-haired ones.

You may have noticed that your cat did not have hairballs when he was a kitten, but that they began to develop as he grew older.

Because as cats grow older, they become more competent groomers and, consequently, become more proficient at removing fur from their coats with their mouths, which results in more hairballs for you to clean up.

Symptoms of Hairballs in Cats

However, despite the fact that hairballs are nasty, they are caused by your cat’s healthy and meticulous grooming regimen. Small hook-like structures on your cat’s tongue capture loose and dead hair when it grooms itself, which is subsequently ingested by the cat. The bulk of this hair is able to travel through the digestive tract without causing any issues.. It is possible for hairballs to develop if any hair remains in the stomach. To get rid of the hairball, your cat will usually vomit it.

The long-haired breeds, like as Persians and Maine Coons, are more susceptible to developing hairballs.

Observe whether your cat had hairballs when it was a kitten, and whether they developed as it grew older.

This results in more hairballs for you to clean up.

Continual vomiting, gagging, retching, or hacking without the production of a hairball Lack of appetite, lethargy, constipation, and diarrhea are all symptoms of the disease.

Continued

There is nothing that can be done to completely prevent cats from developing hairballs, but there are things you can do to lessen the probability that your cat will get hairballs and to reduce the frequency with which they occur.

Groom your cat on a regular basis. In general, the more fur you can remove off your cat, the less fur is likely to end up in their stomach as hairballs. Hairballs may be reduced significantly by combing or brushing your cat on a regular basis. It can also be a pleasant method for you to interact with your cat while minimizing hairballs. You might consider sending your cat to a professional groomer for a grooming and haircut (particularly if your cat has long hair) once every six months or so if you are unable to train your cat to accept brushing
Give your cat a cat chow that contains a specific “hairball recipe.” Many pet food producers are now producing cat meals that are designed to reduce hairballs. Using high-fiber formulations, you may enhance the condition of your cat’s coat while also reducing the amount of shedding and encouraging hairballs in cats to move through the digestive system. Make use of a laxative or a hairball product. Currently, there are a variety of various hairball products available on the market, the most of which are mild laxatives that aid in the passage of hairballs through the digestive tract. Excessive grooming should be avoided. You should try to educate your cat to do something else fun instead than licking their coat if you feel that their hairballs are a result of excessive grooming. Teaching children how to play with a new toy on their own, or finding a fun item that you can all enjoy together, are examples of what you can do.

Your Cat Has Hairballs: Should You Worry?

Regular grooming is essential for your cat. The more fur you can remove from your cat, the less fur will end up as hairballs in their stomach as a result of this. Hairballs may be reduced significantly by combing or brushing your cat on a regular basis. It can also be a pleasant method for you to interact with your cat while reducing hairballs. You might consider sending your cat to a professional groomer for a grooming and haircut (particularly if your cat has long hair) once every six months or so if you are unable to get them to brush themselves.

Several pet food producers are now producing cat meals that are designed to reduce hairball formation.

Hairball products and laxatives can be used to help with this.

Excessive grooming should be discouraged, You should try to educate your cat to do something else pleasurable instead of licking their coat if you feel that their hairballs are caused by obsessive grooming.

What Causes Cat Hairballs?

Grooming is a daily activity for domestic cats that takes between 30 and 50% of their time. A healthful pastime, grooming is necessary for keeping cats clean, and it is also relaxing. The papillae (hook-shaped protrusions) on their tongues force them to ingest a significant amount of the loose hair they lick out of their coats. Because hair is composed of keratin, a protein that mammals cannot digest, the majority of the food that fur cats consume is passed along unprocessed and excreted with the feces of the cat.

The Danger of Hairballs

It is possible for a cat to consume a huge clump of hair, which can obstruct the digestive track and cause death. Here’s how to avoid them in the future. The odd time your generally obedient cat will do something frightening and even a little unpleasant is bound to happen. A calm snooze will be interrupted by her rising to her paws, vomiting convulsively for a second or two, and spitting up what appears to be a moist clump at first view. This is a trichobezoar, or a wad of undigested hair that is frequently known to as a hairball, that the animal has thrown up in the center of your kitchen floor or, even worse, in the middle of your precious Persian rug.

They are frequently thin and cylindrical in form, resembling a cigar or a sausage rather than a round ball.

According to him, however, a hairball that is not disgorged and lingers in the stomach will be circular — “similar in shape to a sponge or a rolled-up sock.” Regurgitated hairballs can range in size from an inch to five inches in length and an inch in thickness, however they are typically an inch long and an inch thick.

Most of the time, the expelled stuff will have an unpleasant, but manageable, smell.
In the process of grooming herself, your cat consumes a lot of loose hair.
The fundamental structural component of the hair, Dr.
Even while the vast majority of the animal’s eaten hair finally passes through the digestive tract and is ejected intact in the feces, some of it lingers in the stomach and gradually gathers into a wet clump, which is known as a “hairball.” According to Dr.
This is hardly a cause for concern, except from the annoyance it causes the owner.
He also points out that a hairball that manages to get into the small intestine and become securely trapped there can be quite dangerous.
If you have regular hacking fits, it’s probable that they have nothing to do with hairballs.
The diagnosis of intestinal obstruction is made on the basis of physical examination, bloodwork, X-rays, and sometimes ultrasound, as well as a history of the animal’s pattern of hairball regurgitation (hairball regurgitation history).
The majority of the time, however, the focus of treatment will be on protecting the intestines over a period of several days of clinical care that may involve the use of a laxative to help move the hairball down the digestive tract.

Goldstein strongly encourages owners not to provide a laxative to their cats without first seeking the advice and supervision of a licensed veterinarian. Eating commercial diets that claim to be useful in avoiding or alleviating such a blockage should be avoided, according to the same guidelines.

How to help a cat with hairballs

Given that you want your cat to be a joyful, cuddle-worthy bundle of fun, it might be heartbreaking to witness your pet coughing and choking on a hairball. Despite the fact that hairballs are unpleasant to hear and see, the occasional occurrence is nothing to be concerned about. If your cat’s hairballs are becoming more frequent, or if your cat is exhibiting other indications of illness, it may be time to visit the veterinarian. A good pet insurance policy may be able to assist you in covering the costs of treating your cat’s issue hairballs.

Why do cats get hairballs?

Cats can spend up to 50% of their awake time grooming and grooming themselves. Their mouths are equipped with barbs that face backwards and function as a comb to comb through their fur. As a result, they remain clean, keep their coat, remain cool, comfort themselves, and even form bonds with the other cats in their immediate vicinity. Some of the hairs will enter the cat’s mouth as a result of this combing action. Most of the time, they are ingested by the cat and excreted in its feces together with its food.

As a result, feline feces frequently contain fragments of their hair from grooming activities.

Due to the fact that it cannot go down into the gut, the hair is forced to migrate upwards instead of downwards in a sausage form.

It might take a cat up to 48 hours of frequent gagging and retching before a hairball is completely expelled.

During the spring, when your cat is shedding its winter coat and performing more grooming to clean the hair, hairballs are the most usual occurrence.

What can you do to help a cat with a hairball?

It’s crucial not to become overly concerned at the first hint of a hairball forming. It’s difficult to specify how many hairballs a cat should produce in a healthy amount of time because this differs amongst various cat breeds. Depending on the expert, a hairball per week or fortnight is nothing to be concerned about, whilst some believe that one or two hairballs per year is a better indication of a healthy cat. Keep track of your cat’s routine and keep an eye out for any changes in their hairball frequency, since this might be an indication of an underlying health concern.

The majority of the time, a cat will be able to remove a hairball on their own without assistance.

Keep an eye on your cat from a safe distance to ensure that they bring up the hairball so that you may dispose of it properly.

Laxatone An oral gel that aids in the binding of hair in your cat’s stomach, making it simpler for the hair to travel through the digestive tract
Diet for hairballs

Some cat meals are specifically made to aid in the prevention or management of hairballs. These meals often have a high amount of fiber, which helps to ensure that food and hair pass through the intestines in a constant stream.

Medications on prescription Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on whether prescription-only meals or supplements would be acceptable for your cat’s nutritional needs. Laxatives These should only be administered under the supervision of your veterinarian.

Can hairballs be prevented?

Despite the fact that it is impossible to prevent your cat from ever having a single hairball, it is feasible to minimize the frequency with which they occur if you can reduce the amount of fur that travels through your pet’s digestive system. Your pet’s coat will be more manageable if you groom them on a regular basis. This will reduce the amount of hair your puss consumes as a result of their typical grooming activities. If your cat is of a long-haired breed, the likelihood of him developing hairballs is increased, and you may wish to brush him on a regular basis.

By distributing food consumption throughout the day, you may avoid overwhelming your cat’s digestive tract and creating constipation.

Mats and tangles can grow in your cat’s fur, so brushing him regularly can help prevent this from happening.

In order to keep your cat healthy, avoid overfeeding them with goodies, keep them busy by playing games and exercising, and make sure they aren’t exposed to a stressful atmosphere.

Hairballs and older cats

As cats get older, their bodies become less effective at a number of critical functions, including digesting. The digestion of older cats is frequently slower, which can result in constipation, which allows hairballs to build along with the rest of their faeces. Elder cats also groom more frequently than their younger feline counterparts, who are too preoccupied chasing butterflies and climbing the drapes to think about grooming themselves. Mature cats put in the effort to keep their coats in good shape, but they also ingest more hair as a result of doing so.

If your senior cat is not using the litter pan in the manner in which it is accustomed and appears to be sluggish, it is a good idea to get it examined by a veterinarian. It’s possible that making a few changes to your cat’s food or using an anti-furball laxative would solve the problem.

When should you be concerned about your cat’s hairballs?

When it comes to your pet’s health, hairballs may be extremely dangerous – even deadly in some circumstances. The formation of an extremely big hairball may prevent your pet from regurgitating it, which will result in the hairball continuing to expand and eventually causing a blockage in the digestive tract. So, when should you be concerned about your cat’s hairballs and when shouldn’t you?

Frequent hairballs

If your cat is producing hairballs more frequently than once every two weeks or so, you should consult your veterinarian. A clue that your pet is overgrooming as a result of stress, a skin problem, or an allergy can be seen in this behavior. A higher level of grooming can result in increased hair consumption and the development of hairless patches. Customers with Purely Pets insurance can contact the 24-hour Vet Helpline if they are concerned.

Bile accompanying the hairball

Immediately contact your veterinarian if you see a greenish liquid accompanying your cat’s hairball. This might be an indication of pancreatitis, which should be treated as soon as possible.

Taking more than a few days to pass a hairball

Hairballs should not last more than a day or two in a cat; if your cat has been gagging for an extended period of time, consult your veterinarian to determine if there is a problem. For starters, continuous gagging and retching might cause dehydration in your feline companion.

Lethargy and lack of energy

The production of a hairball can cause cats to become sluggish, but it can also indicate a more severe condition, so if your cat becomes really drowsy or refuses to eat, you may want professional assistance.

Constipation or diarrhoea

Stools that are coming in too slowly or too rapidly are both indicators that your cat’s digestive tract is under stress and needs to be treated.

Change in appetite

This is just another indication that something is wrong with your cat’s stomach. You should get your cat’s hairball examined if it happens at the same time as the retching. However, it is always better to be on the safe side and have it looked at.

Swollen or sensitive stomach

When your cat’s stomach feels sore, it might be an indication of discomfort or pain, which could be caused by a hairball in his digestive tract. Interested in learning more about feline health? Read our blog post on the five most prevalent feline health concerns for more information.

What do vets do to treat hairball problems?

If you have to take your cat to the vet because of a hairball-related problem, the veterinarian will likely perform a physical examination and maybe an X-ray to determine whether an enormous hairball is the source of the problem. Most of the time, treatments and drugs will suffice, but in extreme circumstances, surgery may be necessary to remove the hairball completely. Surgery in the case of an emergency is laden with danger, underscoring the significance of visiting your veterinarian as soon as you discover a problem so that it may be addressed before the need for surgery arises.

Peritonitis is a common side effect after surgery, and it can be deadly.
Your veterinarian may decide to administer an injection to your cat that will trigger vomiting, which may aid in the removal of the stool.
A method such as this should never be used to make your cat ill at home.
It’s possible that your pet insurance coverage will cover this.
For example, a gut problem might be at the base of the problem if the cat’s feces are not adequately cleaning out the stomach.
If your cat is unable to properly pass hair through his digestive tract, it is likely that other stuff in his intestines is also becoming stagnant.

Inflammatory disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease can be caused by a disruption in the balance of gut flora.

Managing the cost of hairball treatment

Suppose your cat has emergency surgery to remove a hairball that has been lodged in their digestive tract. In this situation, the prognosis is not only perilous for them, but also extremely expensive for you. It is possible that the expense of surgery and vet care will run into thousands of pounds – causing you to be concerned about money at the same time as you are really concerned about your pet. Fortunately, in the great majority of instances, surgery is not required, and the hairball may be treated with non-surgical procedures and drugs instead of surgery.

Why insure with Purely Pets?

Purely Pets provides pet insurance that is customized to meet your specific requirements and preferences. Because you may choose from 15 various levels of coverage with our insurance, you can determine how much you want to pay and what sort of coverage is best for you and your pet. In the event that your cat becomes unwell, our pet insurance guarantees that you can give them with the best possible treatment while not having to worry about the financial side of things. The majority of pet insurance policies cover vet bills ranging from £1,000 to £15,000, as well as special diets, supplemental therapy, boarding fees, and vacation cancellation.

Please contact us for more information.

The advantages, features, and discounts given by insurance policies and the types of coverage selected may differ depending on the insurance scheme or cover selected and are subject to underwriting conditions.

Common Causes of Coughing in Cats

This essay is part of a series on Cat Asthma that you can find here. Here is the link to the whole Guide on Cat Asthma. When your cat coughs and hacks, it may be really upsetting to witness. Although coughing is not always a cause for concern (for example, when a cat is attempting to pass a hairball), it is crucial to recognize when your cat requires veterinary assistance and when he or she does not. While hairballs are frequently suspected as the source of a cat’s coughing, it is usual for cats to cough up a hairball just a few of times each month.

What Makes A Cat Cough

The airways are protected by a protective response that is activated when foreign objects such as irritants, dust, mucus, or other particles enter the system. Coughing is the result of this reflex, which is an attempt to keep the airways free.

2 Coughing in cats can be caused by a variety of different factors. While a cough is not a medical ailment or disease in and of itself, it might be a symptom of a more serious underlying problem. Coughing in cats can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

The airways are protected by a protective response that is activated when irritants such as dust, mucus, or other particles enter them. Coughing is the result of this reflex, which is an attempt to maintain the airways free of obstruction. 2 For a variety of causes, cats might experience coughing. Despite the fact that coughing is not a medical ailment or disease in and of itself, it might be an indication of a more serious underlying condition or disease. There are a variety of factors that might contribute to coughing in cats.

When Should You Be Concerned?

In the event that your cat coughs but no hairball is generated, it is critical to pay close attention to any other symptoms that your cat is exhibiting. Coughing that is infrequent yet regular (a few times a week or consistently every few weeks) might be a symptom of asthma in some people. It’s conceivable that your cat would kneel low to the ground with their neck stretched upwards, a position that will allow your cat to obtain as much air as possible in between coughing fits. Asthma may be life-threatening if left untreated.

2. Your Cat Keeps Coughing

You should take your cat to the veterinarian if his or her cough is persistent, lasts for more than a few days, or begins to worsen. The presence of a persistent cough may indicate the presence of a respiratory illness or asthma.

3. Your Cat Has A Productive (Wet) Cough

When your cat coughs, phlegm or mucus will be produced as a result of the coughing 4. Crying that is wet in nature may indicate a lower respiratory issue..

4. Your Cat’s Cough Is Accompanied By Wheezing

The coughing that your cat experiences will result in phlegm or sputum 4 as a result of the wet cough. Crying that sounds wet may be indication of a lower respiratory issue.

5. Your Cat Is Coughing And Sneezing

In addition to coughing, your cat may be sneezing, which might be an indication of a viral or respiratory illness in your home. 5

6. Your Cat Is Losing Weight

In addition to the cough, if your cat begins to lose weight or has a decreased appetite, this might be a symptom of a parasite or infection in his system. 6

7. Your Cat’s Cough Keeps Coming Back

A parasite or illness may be present in your cat if he or she begins to lose weight or has a decreased appetite in addition to coughing. 6

8. Your Cat’s Tongue And Gums Are Turning Blue

In addition to the cough, if your cat begins to lose weight or has a decreased appetite, this might be a symptom of a parasite or illness. 6

Treatments For Cat Coughing

Treatment methods differ based on the underlying disease that is causing the coughing. If your cat develops a hairball, the coughing should lessen once the hairball has been eliminated. Any cough that returns should be evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian before attempting to cure your cat’s cough. Treatment without first obtaining a diagnosis might be detrimental to your cat and may even aggravate his or her health. 8

Treating Cat AsthmaRespiratory Infections

In most cases, feline asthma and respiratory infections may be managed successfully. For cats with asthma, there are two types of drugs that are commonly prescribed: corticosteroids to treat inflammation and bronchodilators, which open up the airways to allow more air to pass through. These drugs are available in three different forms: inhaled, oral, and injectable. Inhaled medication is the favored way. In contrast to systemic steroids, inhaled steroids do not require the body to undergo any metabolization.

It is straightforward and successful to administer inhaled drugs to your cat with an inhaler, especially when used in conjunction with an aerosol chamber (such as the AEROKAT chamber), and it helps to ensure that your cat gets the entire amount of medication inhale.

Anti-histamines are not recommended for the treatment of asthma or bronchitis since there is no evidence to support this practice. Learn More About the Treatment Options for Feline Asthma.

Treatments For Other Conditions

Typically, medicines are administered to help the cat recover from an infection if that is the reason of his coughing spells. 9 Cough suppressants may be administered to alleviate the symptoms of a coughing spell. 10 If a parasite is the source of the cat’s cough, antiparasitic medications are provided to aid in the parasite’s elimination. If a parasite is the source of the cat’s cough, antiparasitic medications are recommended to aid in the parasite’s elimination..

What To Expect At The Vet’s Office

If a parasite is the source of the cat’s cough, antiparasitic medications are recommended to assist in the parasite’s elimination.

How long have the symptoms been prevalent
How severe are they
Is the cough wet or dry
How long has it lasted
In addition to the cough, have you noticed any other signs or symptoms? Is your cat allowed to go outside? Is your cat being treated for parasitic worms as part of a prophylactic program? Is your cat being a little more sluggish than usual?

Coughing in cats is a symptom of a more serious problem that may be life-threatening in some situations, despite the fact that it is rather frequent. If you are unclear whether or not your cat’s cough necessitates a trip to the veterinarian, always err on the side of caution and take them anyhow. Take the Feline Asthma Assessment to determine whether or not your cat has asthma. Take the Asthma Quiz to find out more. Take the Quiz to find out more. 1 “The Danger of Hairballs” from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Pet Health Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to the health and well-being of pets.

5 “Do Cats Cough Normally?” “Do Cats Cough Normally?” 7 “Coughing in Cats — Is It Normal for a Cat To Cough?” says the Pet Health Network.

8 “Can You Tell Me Why My Cat Coughs So Much?” WebMD.

10 Ibid.11 “Coughing in Cats – Is It Normal for a Cat To Cough?” “Is It Normal for a Cat To Cough?” Cat-World.