What to do when a cat throws up hairballs

Discovering that a cat is throwing up hairballs can lead to some effective solutions. Feeding the cat with hair removal gel can help the cat pass the hairball smoothly, regulate and improve the cat's intestinal environment. Additionally, pet owners can grow catnip at home, and when the cat throws up hairballs, feeding it some catnip can help it vomit up the hairball. Moreover, regular brushing of the cat's fur is necessary to remove dead hair, preventing the cat from developing hairball syndrome due to excessive hair consumption. Also, feeding the cat with appropriate fruits and vegetables or choosing cat food containing rough fiber can also achieve the effect of expelling hairballs.

Feed the cat with hair removal gel

Hair removal gel is similar to intestinal lubricant, which can lubricate the cat's intestines and promote gastrointestinal peristalsis, thus helping the hairball exit the body. If the cat has already started throwing up hairballs, it is recommended to feed it with a length of approximately 8 centimeters, and feed it 3-4 times per week. For preventive measures, feed it with a length of about 5 centimeters each time, lasting 1-2 times per week.

Feed the cat with catnip

Catnip serves as a stimulant for the cat's gastrointestinal tract, causing the cat to vomit and expel the hairball from its body. During the cat's molting period, it is prone to ingesting fallen hair, leading to vomiting and constipation. In this case, providing the cat with catnip can help it expel the hairball.

Usually, it is recommended to start feeding catnip to cats older than six months. If the cat is too young, feeding it catnip may cause gastrointestinal stress, and in severe cases, diarrhea and soft stool. Also, do not feed catnip to pregnant cats to avoid miscarriage.

Brush the cat frequently

Cats throw up hairballs because of their habit of licking their fur, which leads to ingesting hair. The accumulated hair in the cat's belly cannot be expelled normally, resulting in hairballs. Therefore, owners need to brush the cat frequently, maintaining one to two brushings per day. This helps remove loose, dead hair and hair that easily falls off, promoting the growth of new hair and improving blood circulation in the cat, making its fur smooth and lustrous.

Before brushing the cat, play with it first to relax it, then brush its fur. When brushing, follow the hair's direction and be gentle to avoid hurting the cat's skin.

Feed the cat with appropriate fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables like carrots, pumpkins, and apples are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, which can promote gastrointestinal peristalsis and expel hairballs. Therefore, owners can feed their cats with some cooked fruits and vegetables occasionally, which are healthier and more nutritious than catnip. However, it is necessary to cook the fruits and vegetables before feeding them to the cat.

Choose cat food containing rough fiber

Cats are carnivores and mainly eat meat. If the cat doesn't like to eat fruits and vegetables, owners can choose a cat food containing rough fiber when purchasing cat food, which can also help expel hairballs and protect the cat's intestinal health, as well as improve vomiting symptoms.