Hairballs are caused when cats lick themselves or other cats they are around and the loose hair gets swallowed. Because cats are not able to digest the swallowed hair properly it clumps/globs up into balls inside their stomach. Hairballs can upsets a cats digestive system causing them to vomit. Cats do occasionally vomit which is a normal way for them to get rid of harmful substances or hairballs. If vomiting becomes regular though make sure to consult your vet and have your cat checked out.

There are preventative measures you can take to help reduce the chance your cat will get hairballs. Regular grooming/brushing of your cats coat frequently, this has the added benefit of lessening the amount of hairs deposited around the house on your furniture, carpet and floors. Pet stores do sell special foods designed to help prevent hairballs and this can be introduced into your cats diet.

Should you cats get hairballs adding grass occasionally to your cats diet can help the cat regurgitate.

Why do cats lick themselves ?

We've all watched our cats spend many hours grooming themselves using their rough tongue to comb through their coat. I have heard many explanations why cats lick themselves here are just some of them. Cleaning themselves, getting knots out of their fur, removal of dead hair or skin, regulating their temperature, it relaxes them. I am sure you probably have heard many more...

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