What is the name of the hair accumulation in a cat's stomach? - briefly
The name for the hair accumulation in a cat's stomach is called a trichobezoar. This condition occurs when cats ingest their own hair, often due to excessive grooming, leading to the formation of hairballs in the stomach.
What is the name of the hair accumulation in a cat's stomach? - in detail
The accumulation of hair in a cat's stomach is commonly referred to as a "hairball" or, more technically, a "trichobezoar." This phenomenon occurs when cats ingest their own fur during grooming. Unlike humans, cats use their tongues to clean themselves, and their barbed tongues are highly effective at removing loose and dead hair from their coats. Some of this hair is swallowed and passes through the digestive system without issue. However, some hair can accumulate in the stomach, forming a hairball.
The formation of hairballs is a natural process for cats, but it can sometimes lead to health issues if the hairballs become too large or frequent. When this happens, cats may regurgitate the hairballs to expel them from their system. This is often accompanied by retching or gagging sounds, and the hairballs typically appear as tubular shapes composed of matted hair.
There are several factors that can influence the frequency and size of hairballs in cats. Long-haired breeds, for example, tend to produce more hairballs due to their thicker coats. Additionally, cats that groom themselves excessively, perhaps due to stress or allergies, may also be more prone to hairball formation. Proper grooming and a healthy diet can help manage and reduce the occurrence of hairballs. Regular brushing can remove loose hair from the cat's coat before it is ingested, while specialized diets and supplements can aid in the digestion and passage of hair through the digestive system. In some cases, veterinarians may recommend hairball remedies or medications to help cats pass hairballs more easily.