It's HAIRBALL Season!

Yes, there really are "seasons" for increased hairball production in cats

Any experienced cat parent knows the sound of a cat hacking up a hairball.   Even worse is when we step on one in bare or socked feet!   Eeeewwww!

"Hairball season" refers to periods in spring and fall when cats shed heavily, which increases the frequency of hairballs as more fur is ingested during grooming. During these times, you may notice your cat is more prone to hairball coughing or vomiting, especially if they are long-haired or older. To help manage hairballs during these seasons, it's recommended to increase brushing, provide hairball-control food or treats, and encourage increased water intake to aid digestion.  

Why Hairballs Increase During "Hairball Season"

• Heavy Shedding: 

  Cats naturally shed their winter coats in the spring to stay cool and might also shed their summer coats in the fall. 

• Increased Ingested Fur: 

  This increased shedding leads to more loose fur, which cats inevitably swallow while grooming themselves. 

• Hairball Formation: 

  When the swallowed fur accumulates in the digestive tract, it can form a hairball that the cat needs to expel by vomiting. 

How to Help Your Cat During "Hairball Season"

• Brush Regularly: 

  Brushing your cat frequently, especially long-haired cats, helps remove loose fur before it can be ingested. 

• Use Hairball Control Food: 

  Consider switching to a diet that includes hairball-control foods, which often contain added fiber or lubricants to help hair pass through the digestive system more easily. 

• Offer Treats or Supplements: 

  Hairball remedy treats or supplements can provide additional fiber or other ingredients that support digestive health. 

• Encourage Water Intake: 

  Increased hydration helps move hair through the digestive tract. You can provide more fresh water sources or add wet food to your cat's diet. 

• Maintain a Clean Home: 

  Frequent cleaning can help reduce the amount of loose fur found on furniture, which cats may encounter and ingest.