How to Treat Furballs in Cats

There is no need to panic if your cat throws up a furball, also known as a hairball. Cats keep their fur clean by grooming themselves constantly. Even though most of the hair that they ingest passes through their stool, sometimes hair bunches up in their stomachs. Then the only way for them to get rid of it is by throwing it up. There are several things you can do to treat or prevent hairballs.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat-grooming tools (brushes, gloves)
  • Oral petroleum-based lubricant
  • Hairball-controlling cat food
  • Cat grass
  • Anti-shedding shampoo and conditioner
  • Water
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Brush your cat's fur daily to remove any loose hair that may end up in its stomach and to promote shine and cleanliness. Look for cat-grooming tools such as brushes and gloves at your local pet specialty store.

    • 2

      Give your pet an oral petroleum-based lubricant to help pass the hairballs. Find different flavors of lubricant, such as chicken and beef, at your local pet store. Follow dosage instructions on the packaging. If the cat refuses to eat the lubricant outright, place it on the pet's paw or nose so that it licks it off.

    • 3

      Feed your cat a special cat food that controls hairballs or supply it with cat grass to increase its fiber intake, which helps hairballs to pass naturally.

    • 4

      Wash your cat using a cat shampoo and conditioner that controls excessive shedding. Look for products fortified with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants for an extra shiny and healthy coat.

    • 5

      Provide you cat with unlimited access to fresh water to promote its digestive health.