If a cat has hairballs? - briefly
Cats develop hairballs when they ingest loose fur during grooming, which accumulates in their stomach and is later regurgitated. This is a normal process for most cats, especially those with long fur.
If a cat has hairballs? - in detail
Cats often develop hairballs as a natural consequence of their grooming habits. When a cat grooms itself, its rough tongue catches loose and dead hair, which is then swallowed. Most of this hair passes through the digestive system without issue, but some can accumulate in the stomach, forming a hairball. Over time, the cat may regurgitate the hairball to expel it from its body. This process is generally normal and occurs more frequently in long-haired breeds due to the greater amount of hair they ingest. However, frequent hairballs can sometimes indicate underlying health issues, such as skin problems, excessive grooming due to stress, or digestive disorders. If a cat experiences difficulty passing hairballs, shows signs of discomfort, or has persistent vomiting, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and specialized hairball control products can help minimize the occurrence of hairballs and support a cat’s overall health.