Hairball Hassles Begone The Benefits of Hairball Control Treats

Cat Hairballs 101: How to Help

Sharing your home with a cat has many upsideshairballs are not one of them. It might come as a surprise that hairballs are not an inevitable part of a cats life. Yes, cats do a lot of grooming and ingest a lot of fur in the process. But when all is well, that hair should pass uneventfully through their digestive tract and come out in the litter box.

Lets look at why that doesnt always happen and what you can do to treat and prevent hairballs in cats.

What Does a Cat Hairball Look Like?

In its most common form, a hairball looks like a wad of fur that has a somewhat tubular shape after being forced up through the esophagus. Fresh hairballs are usually wet, but they can dry out quickly if they go unnoticed. You may at first confuse a hairball with cat poop and think that your cat went outside their litter box.

Sometimes cat hairballs arent so well-formed. For example, you might come across a looser tangle of fur mixed with some food, mucus, or fluid, which may be tinged with bile. In these cases, it can be hard to figure out if your cat is vomiting because of the hair or if the hair was just brought up with everything else.

Image credit: Roo the cat

Why Is My Cat Getting Hairballs?

All cats swallow hair as they groom themselves, but why do some have problems with hairballs while others dont?

Fur is not digestible. Its made mostly of keratin, which isnt broken down by the acids and enzymes in a cats gastrointestinal (GI) tract. And when a lot of fur is in the tract, it tends to get tangled into large clumps.

A healthy feline digestive tract is designed to handle normal amounts of fur passing through, but two types of problems lead to the development of hairballs:

Ingestion of more fur than normal, which can happen with:

Diseases and issues affecting the GI tract:

What if My Cat Is Trying to Cough up a Hairball but Cant?

Most people say the phrase cough up a hairball, but whats actually happening is retching and vomiting. Sometimes retching can sound like coughing, but the hairball is in the cats digestive system, not their respiratory tract.

If youre nearby when your cat is trying to bring up a hairball, you might notice some telltale behaviors. Many cats cry out and get restless when they feel like theyre about to vomit. Then, your cats abdomen will contract several times and youll hear them retching with the contractions.

But sometimes the hairball doesnt come up on the first try or even the second, third, or fourth. You may hear the retching and see wet spots that look like clear or brown liquid where your cat tried to bring up the hairball as they move around from spot to spot.

Most people say the phrase cough up a hairball, but whats actually happening is retching and vomiting.

If they do succeed in vomiting up the hairball, they should seem to immediately feel better and go back to their normal behaviors. This is what sets hairballs apart from other cases of cat vomiting, which usually result in persistent nausea combined with other symptoms like lethargy and a poor appetite.

Call your veterinarian for advice if your cat tries to vomit two or three times in a day, whether they bring anything up or not, or if the vomiting continues for more than a day or two. You may be dealing with a hairball that has become stuck or you may not be dealing with a hairball at all.

Treating Hairballs in Cats

Cats that only bring up a hairball once a month or so generally dont need to be seen by a veterinarian for a thorough health workup. Trying a little home treatment makes sense.

But veterinary care is essential if your cat is having hairballs more often than this or if youre seeing other symptoms, like poor appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.

How Vets Diagnose and Treat Hairballs in Cats

The veterinarian will first ask questions about what youve seen at home and your cats health history, and then they will give your cat a physical exam.

Testing may include skin scrapings to look for mites, ringworm cultures, cytology to rule out skin infections, abdominal X-rays or ultrasound, blood work, urinalysis, fecal examinations, a hypoallergenic food trial, or biopsies of the gastrointestinal tract or skin. These tests will help the vet diagnose whatever is causing the hairballs.

If theres an underlying health or behavioral issue, the vet will recommend treatment to address it.

Home treatment is not appropriate for cats that have frequent hairballs.

Surgery is usually needed to remove very large hairballs that are blocking a cats GI tract. The doctor will examine your cats entire digestive system for other hairballs and repair or remove any damaged tissues that are found.

Are There Home Remedies for Cat Hairballs?

Home treatment is not appropriate for cats that have frequent hairballs. An underlying health problem is usually to blame for their formation, and if it isnt treated, the cat wont get better.

But for infrequent hairball episodes, here are several safe home remedies that you can try:

Never give your cat cooking oils, butter, lard, grease, or mineral oil in an attempt to help them with hairballs. Cooking oils and fats will merely be digested and wont help. Mineral oil is very dangerous if inhaled, which can easily happen when a cat is vomiting.

How To Prevent Cat Hairballs

Once your cat is hairball-free, you can start thinking about prevention. Underlying health problems may need continued management, but you can also try these tips:

• Brush your cat more often to reduce the hair they ingest. This is especially important for long-haired cats.
• Give your cat Laxatone or another hairball-control gel two or three times per week.
• Add fiber to your cats diet through treats and nutritional supplements or by switching to a hairball control food.

Together, you and your veterinarian can come up with the best way to treat and prevent hairballs. Your cat will thank you!

Featured image: iStock.com/krblokhin

WRITTEN BY

Jennifer Coates, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Jennifer Coates is an accomplished veterinarian, writer, editor, and consultant with years of experience in the fields of veterinary...

Greenies Hairball Treats for Cats Review

Pet owners, particularly feline lovers, are always seeking the best for their furry companions. One brand that has been widely discussed in recent years is Greenies and their hairball treats for cats. Lets dive deep into the world of these treats, examining their benefits, potential concerns, and what the community is saying.

1. What Are Greenies Hairball Treats?

Greenies Hairball Control treats are marketed as a tasty solution for cats who suffer from hairballs. They are designed not only to control the formation of hairballs but also to provide additional nutrients.

2. Benefits of Greenies Hairball Treats

• Tasty for Cats: Many owners report their cats adore the taste.
• Nutritional Supplement: They contain essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
• Hairball Reduction: They have a unique fiber blend intended to help reduce hairball formation.

3. Controversies and Concerns

However, as seen on platforms like Reddit and JustAnswer, some concerns surround these treats.

• Digestive Issues: Some owners have reported their cats vomiting after consuming the treats.
• Grain Content: Not being grain-free has raised eyebrows among some health-conscious pet owners.

4. What the Community Says

• On Reddits r/cats, users have discussed a shortage of these treats, signaling their popularity.
• Some users on r/petco have raised concerns about the nutritional value, comparing them to feeding cats sugar.
• Other users swear by them, highlighting their effectiveness in managing hairballs and their cats love for the taste.

5. Alternatives to Greenies

Given the divided opinion, its wise to know the alternatives:

• Dietary Changes: Consider a high-fiber diet which can naturally help with hairball control.
• Regular Grooming: Brushing your cat regularly can reduce the amount of hair they ingest.
• Other Treat Brands: If Greenies arent the right fit, other brands in the market offer similar benefits.

6. The Bottom Line

As with all products, what works for one cat might not work for another. Its essential to know your cats specific needs and consult with a veterinarian if youre concerned about introducing a new treat or if your cat experiences adverse reactions.

Conclusion

Greenies Hairball Control treats for cats have undeniably made a mark in the pet community. While many tout their benefits, its also crucial to listen to the concerns raised. Whatever you decide, ensure its in the best interest of your feline friend.

FAQ: Greenies Hairball Treats for Cats

Q1: How do Greenies Hairball Treats work?

Answer: Greenies Hairball Treats employ a unique blend of natural fibers that help to minimize hairball formation. As the cat consumes the treat, the fibers assist in moving ingested hair through the digestive system, preventing it from clumping together in the stomach. Additionally, the treats have an appealing taste, ensuring that cats are eager to consume them.

Q2: How often should I give my cat these treats?

Answer: Its recommended to follow the serving suggestions on the product packaging. Typically, for a 10-pound cat, around 4-5 treats daily are suggested. However, always ensure that treats make up no more than 10% of your cats daily caloric intake and consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Q3: Are Greenies Hairball Treats suitable for kittens?

Answer: Greenies Hairball Treats are primarily designed for adult cats. Kittens have different nutritional needs, and their digestive systems might be more sensitive. If considering any treats for kittens, always consult a veterinarian first.

Q4: Are there any known side effects?

Answer: While many cats enjoy these treats without any issues, some owners have reported digestive upsets, including vomiting. If you notice any adverse reactions in your cat after introducing these treats, its recommended to discontinue use and consult a veterinarian.

Q5: Do Greenies Hairball Treats come in different flavors?

Answer: Yes, Greenies offer a variety of flavors to cater to the diverse palates of cats. Some of the popular flavors include chicken and tuna. Its a good idea to try out different flavors to determine which one your cat prefers.

Q6: Can I rely solely on these treats for hairball control?

Answer: While Greenies Hairball Treats can be a helpful part of a hairball control regimen, they shouldnt be the sole solution. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and adequate hydration play crucial roles in managing hairballs.

Q7: Are there any grains in Greenies Hairball Treats?

Answer: Yes, some Greenies products contain grains. If youre keen on providing grain-free options for your cat, always check the ingredient list and consider other alternatives that align with your dietary preferences for your pet.

Q8: How should I store these treats?

Answer: To ensure freshness, its recommended to store Greenies Hairball Treats in a cool, dry place. Always reseal the bag after use to maintain the treats potency and taste.

Q9: Have there been any recalls on Greenies Hairball Treats?

Answer: Recalls can occur with any product, and its always a good practice to regularly check the FDAs pet food recall website or consult with your veterinarian for the most up-to-date information.

Q10: Can Greenies Hairball Treats replace a meal?

Answer: No, these treats are designed as a supplement and not as a replacement for regular meals. Always ensure that your cat has a balanced diet that meets all its nutritional needs.

Q11: Are Greenies Hairball Treats gluten-free?

Answer: Some Greenies products may contain gluten or gluten-derived ingredients. If your cat has specific dietary requirements or sensitivities, always scrutinize the ingredient list closely and consider consulting your veterinarian before introducing any new treat.

Q12: Can these treats help with other digestive issues besides hairballs?

Answer: While Greenies Hairball Treats are primarily formulated for hairball control, the natural fibers in them might assist in promoting overall digestive health. However, they arent designed to treat specific digestive issues. If your cat has persistent digestive problems, its essential to consult a veterinarian for specialized care.

Q13: How does the nutritional content of Greenies Hairball Treats compare to other hairball remedies?

Answer: Greenies Hairball Treats focus on a combination of taste and functionality, ensuring cats are attracted to the treats while benefiting from the hairball control features. When compared to other remedies, these treats might have a different caloric and fiber content. Comparing labels and understanding the needs of your cat are crucial steps before making a choice.

Q14: Are there any age-specific versions of the Greenies Hairball Treats?

Answer: Greenies primarily targets adult cats with its Hairball Treats. However, brands often expand or modify their product lines, so its advisable to regularly check the official Greenies website or trusted pet stores for the latest offerings.

Q15: If my cat is on medication, can I still give it these treats?

Answer: While Greenies Hairball Treats are generally safe for most cats, if your cat is on medication, you should always consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new treat or food. Some ingredients might interact with specific drugs or alter their effectiveness.

Q16: How sustainable are the ingredients in Greenies Hairball Treats?

Answer: Greenies, like many pet food brands, is increasingly focusing on sustainability. However, for precise details regarding the sourcing and sustainability of their ingredients, its best to refer to the companys official statements or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

Q17: Can I combine Greenies Hairball Treats with other forms of hairball remedies?

Answer: While it might be tempting to use multiple remedies for more effective hairball control, doing so without proper guidance can lead to over-supplementation. Before combining treatments, always consult your veterinarian to ensure its safe and effective for your feline friend.

Q18: If my cat doesnt like the treats, can I return them?

Answer: Return policies vary depending on where you purchase the product. While some retailers might offer returns or exchanges for pet food and treats, others may not. Always check the return policy of the store or online platform where you bought the Greenies Hairball Treats.

Q19: Are there any DIY alternatives to Greenies Hairball Treats?

Answer: There are various DIY recipes available online that focus on natural ingredients to help with hairball control. Ingredients like pumpkin can act as natural fiber sources. However, creating a balanced and effective treat at home requires careful consideration of nutrition and portion size. If youre considering a DIY approach, seek guidance from a veterinarian or a pet nutritionist.

Q20: Do these treats also support dental health?

Answer: Greenies has a range of products that promote dental health, and while the Hairball Treats might provide some dental benefits due to their texture, theyre primarily designed for hairball control. If dental health is a concern, you might want to explore products specifically formulated for that purpose.

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