Friday, April 11, 2008

what to do about hairballs; everything you need to know about cat hairballs and associated problems


It could well be hair balls. Cats swallow hair when they groom and this goes down to their stomach and forms a ball of fur. The signs of hair balls are retching, loss of appetite, constipation or diarrhoea and often an air of uneasiness.

You can treat hair balls with a commercial hair/fur ball product but butter can also sometimes help. Mineral oils should not be used, unless directed by the vet, as these can go down the cat's windpipe.

You can also prevent hair balls by grooming the cat regularly with a wide comb and brush, and a long haired cat should be groomed at least once a day. I'm afraid that once a week grooming is probably not enough.

It could also be that you cat is eating too fast, if they are otherwise healthy. Try feeding smaller portions more often, or changing to a different type of cat food. A flat dish, with the food more spread out may encourage the cat to eat more slowly.

However, if you are at all worried about your cat, or she seems unwell, remember that you must make an appointment to get her checked over by your vet.

Remember Elaine cannot replace the vet who normally looks after your pet and they should always be the first point of contact. If you are concerned your pet may be ill, don't delay contacting your own vet.

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