Home Remedy for Fur Balls

Whether you have a long-haired cat such as a Persian or a domestic shorthair mix, you deal with one thing they all have in common: fur balls. Finding them unexpectedly, cleaning them up, and the distress they seem to cause your cat are all issues for you. While it is unlikely that fur balls can be eliminated completely, there are ways to significantly reduce their occurrence without going to the vet.

  1. The Cause of Fur Balls

    • Cats are meticulous groomers, and they groom themselves with their tongues. The excess fur groomed away is swallowed but can't be digested. It builds up in the cat's digestive tract and forms fur balls. Because it can't be digested, cats can do nothing but spit it back up.

    Brushing

    • While it may seem elementary, brushing is a key strategy in fur ball prevention. It costs no more than the price of the brush and a little time each day. The less fur cats swallow, the fewer fur balls they form. This is where brushing becomes instrumental. Not only does it prevent fur balls, it also helps keep your cat's coat healthy.

      The type of brush needed depends on the length and texture of your cat's fur. There are a wide variety available, especially in pet specialty stores. Most will specify what type and length of fur they are best suited for on their packaging or tags. If you have questions or simply don't know where to start, visiting a pet specialty store and consulting the staff is a good starting point.

      For the past few years brushing gloves have been on the market. They are typically canvas gloves with a rubber, hand-shaped piece containing teeth attached to the palm and thumb. They can be used on both cats and dogs, and are effective for grooming tummies and tails and around legs.

    Butter or Margarine

    • Another simple home remedy for fur balls is to give your cat a bit of butter or margarine from time to time. It acts as a lubricant. Simply cut a small amount from a stick of butter or spoon a small amount from a margarine tub. Place it on the tip of your finger and offer it to your cat. With any luck your cat will simply lick it off. If not, wipe it on one of the cat's front paws. Because cats are such meticulous groomers, your cat will be inclined to lick it off.