Hairballs in cats are a well-known problem for anyone who lives with a feline. But, although common, this is a situation that requires a closer look from the guardians. The accumulation of hair inside the feline organism opens doors to a series of more serious problems, especially if it is not eliminated. It is at these times that knowing how to help a cat with a hairball makes all the difference for health and well-being.animal welfare.

And what's the best way to do this, anyway? Is investing in a hairball remedy a good option? Find out below what actions should be taken and how to deal with a cat with a hairball!

Hairballs in cats: what is the explanation?

Cats are extremely hygienic animals by nature, which is why they spend a good part of the day cleaning themselves. While licking themselves, however, these animals end up ingesting a certain amount of dead hair that is scattered around their body. In the digestive system, the hair accumulates until it forms what we know as a hairball. The cat, in turn, ends up expellingthe material together with gastric secretions, saliva and even food remains through vomiting.

Cats themselves are usually able to expel hairballs from their bodies, but in some cases a little help is needed. It is therefore important to note some symptoms that indicate a cat with a hairball "stuck" in the body, such as:

• apathy
• tiredness
• weakness
• lack of appetite
• regurgitations
• urge to vomit
• constipation

How to make the cat vomit hairball?

When you suspect the problem, it is good to know how to make your cat vomit hairballs. One of the techniques indicated in this situation is to apply a layer of petroleum jelly to the animal's paw. This causes the kitten to start licking the area to try to remove the product. In doing so, he ends up swallowing particles of petroleum jelly that act as a cat laxative, facilitating the removal of hairballs. The catyou can also go through the same procedure with the use of butter or malt instead of petroleum jelly.

In addition, the use of some plants can be of great help. Cat grasses are sources of fiber and improve intestinal transit, facilitating the expulsion of hairballs. You can buy them ready-made at the pet shop or even choose to plant them at home, also serving as an environmental enrichment option for felines.

But beware: although these resources can help, they are not always totally effective. It all depends on the amount of cat hair accumulated in the pet's body and whether or not it is blocking the animal's digestive system. Depending on the severity of the case, it is essential to seek help from a veterinarian.

Does hairball expelling medicine work for cats?

Home methods are often great allies when it comes to how to help your cat vomit hairballs. But for those who like to follow something more "traditional", it is always worth talking to a professional in the field to find out more information about products suitable for this (especially if your kitten has problems with hairballs with a certain frequency).

One option, for example, is the hairball removal paste, which is made exclusively for this purpose, and, on top of that, has a very attractive taste for felines. To use, the procedure is the same as with petroleum jelly or butter: just apply the product to the cat's paw and wait for him to lick and digest it.

To prevent hairballs, cats need frequent brushing and a good diet

There are several precautions that should be taken so that the hairball is not a problem in the life of your little friend. One of them is brushing: it is essential to set aside a little time during the week to brush the cat's hair. Depending on the amount and length of hair, this brushing should be more frequent or less. In addition, a balanced and nutritious diet is another factor that helps prevent hairballs.The cat needs a food rich in protein, fiber and other nutrients.

Last but not least: don't forget to encourage your kitty's hydration. Everyone knows how difficult it is for felines to ingest water, but this is a habit that should be encouraged to avoid various problems ranging from cat hairballs to kidney disease.