I comb my cat’s fur with a comb, but the cat likes to puke on the carpet. At the most inopportune moments. What’s wrong with her?
If your cat is vomiting fur, it’s most likely due to hairballs (trichobezoars), which are common in cats due to their grooming habits. Here’s why it happens and what you can do to help:
Why Does My Cat Vomit Fur?
🐱 Self-Grooming: Cats lick themselves to clean their fur, swallowing loose hairs in the process.
🐱 Hair Accumulates in the Stomach: Some fur passes through digestion, but excess hair can form a ball in the stomach.
🐱 Coughing or Vomiting It Up: When hairballs get too big, cats vomit them out instead of passing them in their stool.
When Are Hairballs Normal?
✅ Occasionally vomiting a hairball (once every few weeks) is normal.
✅ Long-haired cats or excessive groomers may have more hairballs.
When Should I Be Concerned? 🚨
If your cat is vomiting frequently, struggling to pass a hairball, or showing signs of illness, it could indicate a more serious issue like:
- Blockage in the intestines (hairball too large to pass)
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Excessive grooming due to stress, allergies, or skin conditions
How to Reduce Hairballs
✔ Brush your cat regularly – Helps remove loose fur before they swallow it.
✔ Use hairball-control food or treats – Some contain extra fiber to help move hair through digestion.
✔ Give cat-friendly laxatives – Some vet-approved gels help lubricate the digestive tract.
✔ Encourage hydration – A moist diet (wet food) can help with digestion.
✔ Provide alternative grooming options – A scratching post or cat-safe wipes can reduce excessive licking.
🚨 See a vet if your cat:
- Vomits frequently (more than 1–2 times a week)
- Has trouble breathing or gagging without producing a hairball
- Shows signs of lethargy, constipation, or loss of appetite