Causes for feline hairball throw-up detailed, varied
Q: “Shandy” is my cat that has been throwing up hairballs. She didn’t use to do that, but now it seems to happen a few times each month. Can you help? R.T., Farragut
A: I’m so sorry to hear that. Poor Shandy — frequent vomiting is certainly not comfortable. Cats can vomit up hairballs (“trichobezoars”) for a variety of reasons. If Shandy has never had hairballs before, I wonder what has changed.
Some cats will overgroom themselves if they are stressed or anxious. The extra hair that is swallowed can be too much for their GI tract to handle. For some patients, extra brushing and playtime to decrease stress can be helpful. Some cats will excessively groom if they are experiencing pain somewhere. If you have noticed anything like this, please mention it to your veterinarian.
If Shandy’s grooming habits are not different, something could have changed with her GI tract. Parasites, ulcers, abnormal gut motility and IBD are just some conditions that could be a reason for this change.
Occasionally, a diet change and treatment for hairballs will help, but some cats will need more tests to find the reason for the sudden change. Your vet will recommend a physical exam and potentially blood and urine tests, X-rays and ultrasound. Good luck to Shandy — I hope she feels better soon.
If you have questions about your pet, e-mail Dr. Myers at lenoircityanimalclinic.com
