Quick answer: Hairballs form when cats swallow loose hair while grooming. An occasional hairball in a healthy cat is usually normal, and daily brushing or combing is the best way to prevent them. See a vet if your cat vomits more than once a week, retches repeatedly with nothing coming up, seems lethargic or stops eating for more than a day or two.
Few cat sounds get people off the couch faster than the hacking that comes before a hairball. Hairballs are a normal part of life with a cat who grooms, but they are not something you have to simply accept, and occasionally they are a sign of a bigger problem. This guide explains why cats get hairballs, how often is normal, practical ways to prevent hairballs in cats, and the warning signs that mean your cat needs a vet rather than a lint roller.
What is a hairball?
A hairball, known to vets as a trichobezoar, is a wad of undigested hair. Cornell’s Feline Health Center explains that the tiny backward-facing barbs on a cat’s tongue carry loose hair down the throat as they groom. Hair is made mostly of keratin, which cats cannot digest. Most swallowed hair passes through the gut and out in the stool, but some stays in the stomach and gradually clumps together.
Despite the name, Cornell notes that a coughed-up hairball is usually not round. It is typically slender and cylindrical, more like a small sausage, because it is shaped by the narrow esophagus on the way out. Hairballs are usually about an inch long but can be longer, and their color reflects the cat’s coat and food.
How often is it normal for a cat to have hairballs?
Cornell says it is not uncommon for a cat to bring up a hairball once every week or two, and that on its own this is nothing to worry about. Cornell’s separate guidance on vomiting, however, says cats that vomit more often than once a week, or that show other signs such as lethargy or decreased appetite, should be checked by a vet promptly. A practical way to read those together: an occasional hairball in an otherwise bright, hungry cat is usually fine, but frequent or increasing episodes deserve attention.
Which cats get hairballs most?
- Long-haired breeds. Cornell notes that breeds such as Persians and Maine Coons may be at greater risk than short-haired cats.
- Adult and older cats. According to Cornell, kittens and young cats are less likely to have hairballs than older cats, who are experienced groomers and spend more time licking their coats.
- Cats in shedding season. Hairballs are more frequent at times of year when cats normally shed. The ASPCA adds that indoor cats can shed year-round.
- Cats that overgroom. Cornell points out that excessive self-grooming may be a sign of a skin problem related to food allergy. Stress, fleas and pain can also change grooming habits.
Normal hairball or something else? Quick comparison
| Situation | Likely meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Occasional hairball, cat eats and acts normally afterward | Usually normal | Brush more often and keep an eye on frequency |
| Hairballs increasing over weeks or during shedding season | More hair being swallowed | Daily brushing or combing; ask your vet about next steps |
| Vomiting more than once a week | Not just hairballs (Cornell) | Book a vet visit |
| Repeated retching or hacking with nothing coming up | Possible blockage or another health problem | See your vet without delay |
| Lethargy or refusing food for more than a day or two | Possible blockage | See your vet without delay |
| Constipation, swollen or painful belly | Possible obstruction | Contact your vet urgently |
How to prevent hairballs in cats
1. Brush or comb every day
This is the most effective habit. Cornell recommends brushing and combing your cat’s coat daily to reduce hairballs and their complications, because every hair in the brush is a hair your cat doesn’t swallow. The ASPCA says long-haired indoor cats need grooming sessions every few days at a minimum, and that regular brushing also removes skin flakes and improves the condition of the skin. Short sessions of a few minutes are fine. Use a metal comb or rubber brush for short coats and a wide-toothed comb for long coats, and pair brushing with treats so your cat looks forward to it.
2. Brush more during shedding season
Since hairballs are more frequent when cats shed, step up grooming in spring and fall, or whenever you notice extra hair on furniture and bedding.
3. Address overgrooming
If your cat is licking constantly, has thinning patches or bald spots, the ASPCA advises a vet exam, because allergies, fleas, ringworm, stress and other problems can be behind it. Stress-related overgrooming can improve when a cat has more ways to play and hide. Our guides to signs of stress in cats and indoor cat enrichment ideas are good places to start. A cozy hideout, such as a pop-up cat play tent, gives anxious cats somewhere to retreat and a place for play sessions.
4. Keep bedding clean
Loose hair builds up on the places your cat sleeps, and a cat who rolls in it will groom it straight back off. Choose bedding you can shake out and wash often, such as our Teddy Fleece Cat Pad, which has a removable, machine-washable cover, and vacuum favorite lounging spots regularly.
5. Talk to your vet before trying remedies
Hairball gels, laxatives and “hairball control” diets are widely sold. Cornell strongly advises never giving a cat a laxative without the approval and supervision of a veterinarian, and says the same applies to commercial diets marketed to prevent or relieve hairball obstructions. The ASPCA also suggests asking your vet to recommend a solution if hairballs continue despite regular brushing.
6. Keep up with flea prevention
Itchy skin leads to more licking, and more licking means more swallowed hair. The ASPCA recommends a flea-treatment program recommended by your veterinarian as part of preventing skin problems.
When hairballs become dangerous
Most hairballs are harmless. Cornell explains that the risk comes when a clump grows too large to pass from the esophagus into the stomach, or from the stomach into the intestine, or lodges tightly in the small intestine. This is uncommon, but serious; without surgery it can be fatal. Cornell advises that a cat who is lethargic, refuses food for more than a day or two, or has repeated episodes of unproductive retching should be examined by a veterinarian without delay. Frequent hacking may also have nothing to do with hair at all and could signal another health problem.
Diagnosis may involve an exam, bloodwork, X-rays and possibly ultrasound. Many cases are managed with supportive care, and surgery is needed only for true blockages.
Is it a hairball or a cough?
Many owners hear a cat hacking and assume a hairball is on its way, but nothing ever appears. A cat crouched low with the neck stretched forward, coughing or wheezing repeatedly without producing anything, should be seen by a vet. Take a short video of the episode on your phone; it helps your vet tell the difference.
Cleaning up after a hairball
Pick up the hairball with a paper towel, blot rather than rub, and use an enzyme cleaner designed for pet messes on carpets and fabric. Take a quick look at what came up. Hair is expected, but blood, string, plastic or a large amount of food should prompt a call to your vet. Keeping a simple note of dates helps you notice if episodes are becoming more frequent.
Keep loose hair off your cat’s favorite spot
A teddy fleece pad with a removable, machine-washable cover is easy to shake out and wash, so your cat isn’t rolling in yesterday’s shed hair.
Frequently asked questions
Are hairballs normal in cats?
Occasional hairballs are common in cats who groom. Cornell notes that bringing one up every week or two is not unusual, but frequent vomiting or any signs of illness need a vet visit.
How can I prevent hairballs in my cat naturally?
Brush or comb your cat daily, especially during shedding season, keep bedding clean, manage fleas and look for causes of overgrooming such as stress or skin problems.
When should I worry about my cat’s hairballs?
Contact your vet if your cat vomits more than once a week, retches repeatedly without producing anything, is lethargic, refuses food for more than a day or two, or seems constipated.
Can a hairball get stuck in a cat?
Yes, though it is uncommon. A large hairball can block the stomach or intestine, which is serious and may need surgery. That is why repeated unproductive retching and refusal to eat need prompt vet care.
Should I give my cat a hairball laxative?
Not without your vet’s approval. Cornell advises against giving laxatives or hairball-relief diets without veterinary supervision.
Keep reading
- How Often Should You Trim Your Cat’s Nails?
- Signs of Stress in Cats
- Indoor Cat Enrichment Ideas
- How Many Hours Do Cats Sleep?
Sources
- Cornell Feline Health Center: The Danger of Hairballs
- Cornell Feline Health Center: Vomiting
- ASPCA: Cat Grooming Tips
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. If you are worried about your cat’s health, contact your veterinarian.
