How to Get Rid of Furballs in a Cat

The development of furballs in a cat is a common problem cat owners have to deal with. It's caused because cats' style of grooming makes them susceptible to swallowing some of their fur. There are many things you can do to help combat this, however. You can help reduce and prevent furballs and keep your cat comfortable and healthy by following these kitty first-aid tips.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Brush your cat daily. This will clean up a lot of the loose fur so that when your cat takes part in his regular grooming sessions, he is less likely to swallow a lot of fur in doing so.
2. Feed your cat a hairball formula cat food. Most national brands of cat food offer a hairball prevention variety--some in many of your cat's favorite flavors. These foods come with vitamins and nutrients that help prevent the development of hairballs in your cat.
3. Check your local pet supply store for hairball prevention medications. Many of these medications come in the form of pills or treats that are easy to feed to your cat. Others are squeeze tubes of a gel-like substance that come in irresistible flavors that your cat will lick from your finger.
4. Contact your veterinarian if your cat is still having trouble with furballs. She may be able to provide more insight into your cat's problems and can prescribe special medications to combat the hairball problem.

Tips & Warnings

• Visit your veterinarian immediately if your cat is throwing up everything she eats. This could mean that she has a furball blockage and she needs immediate medical attention.