Hairballs and what is normal
An occasional hairball is a normal part of life for many cats, especially long-haired ones and during heavy shedding seasons. As cats groom, they swallow loose hair, and now and then they bring some of it back up. Regular brushing removes loose fur before it is swallowed, and a suitable diet can also help reduce how often hairballs form. So while the odd hairball is nothing to worry about, it is still worth doing what you can to keep them to a minimum.
Frequent vomiting is not normal
Many owners assume that regular vomiting is just a cat thing, but frequent vomiting is not normal and should be checked by a vet. Bringing up food or bile several times a week, or a pattern that is getting worse, is a sign that something needs looking into rather than something to shrug off. There are many possible causes, from diet to underlying illness, and only a vet can sort out which is at play. Keeping a simple note of when and how often it happens will really help your vet.
Knowing when to worry
Some signs mean a trip to the vet is clearly warranted, and it helps to know them in advance. Repeated vomiting, blood in the vomit or stool, refusing food and unusual lethargy are all reasons to call your vet. The same is true of diarrhoea that lasts more than a day or two, or any signs of dehydration such as a dull coat and reduced skin springiness. When several of these appear together, do not wait — an early check-up is always the safer choice.
String is an emergency, and keep water available
One true emergency is a cat that has swallowed string, thread or tinsel, known as a linear foreign body, which can cause serious internal damage. If you see string hanging from your cat's mouth or bottom, never pull on it from either end — go straight to the vet instead. For everyday upsets, always keep fresh water available, because vomiting and diarrhoea cause fluid loss that can quickly leave a cat dehydrated. Whenever you are unsure how serious things are, your vet is the right person to guide you.
CatCompanion keeps the records for you — vaccinations, weight, health and litters in one place, with a reminder when something is due.
Knowledge quizzes: Vomiting, Diarrhoea & Hairballs
An occasional hairball is normal, but frequent digestive upset is not. Learn what is harmless, what needs a vet, and what counts as an emergency.
1. How often is bringing up a hairball considered normal?
- Occasionally, now and then
- Several times a week, every week
- Daily is completely fine
Show answer
Correct answer: Occasionally, now and then
The odd hairball every so often is a normal part of cat life. But hairballs that come up frequently, or repeated vomiting in general, are not normal and deserve a vet visit. Frequent vomiting can point to an underlying problem.
2. A simple way to help reduce hairballs is:
- Giving less water
- Regular brushing and grooming
- Feeding one large meal a day
Show answer
Correct answer: Regular brushing and grooming
Regular brushing removes loose fur before your cat swallows it during self-grooming, so less hair ends up in the stomach. This is especially helpful for long-haired cats and during shedding season. Your vet can also suggest hairball-support diets if needed.
3. Which of these means you should call the vet?
- One hairball with normal eating afterward
- A single small burp
- Blood in vomit or stool, refusing food, or lethargy
Show answer
Correct answer: Blood in vomit or stool, refusing food, or lethargy
Blood, not eating, and unusual tiredness are warning signs that need veterinary attention. Diarrhoea that lasts more than a day or two, or signs of dehydration, also warrant a call. When in doubt, it is safest to check with your vet.
4. Diarrhoea that lasts more than a day or two should be:
- Checked by a vet, watching for dehydration
- Ignored as long as the cat still moves around
- Treated with your own anti-diarrhoea tablets
Show answer
Correct answer: Checked by a vet, watching for dehydration
Ongoing diarrhoea can quickly dehydrate a cat and may signal infection, parasites, or other illness, so contact your vet. Never give human anti-diarrhoea medicines, as many are unsafe for cats. Keep fresh water available while you arrange a check-up.
5. If your cat has swallowed a piece of string that is hanging from its mouth or rear, you should:
- Gently pull it out yourself
- Leave it, do not pull, and get to a vet immediately
- Wait to see if it passes on its own
Show answer
Correct answer: Leave it, do not pull, and get to a vet immediately
Swallowed string is a true emergency because it can saw through or bunch up the intestines. Never pull it, as that can cause severe internal damage. Go to a vet right away and let them remove it safely.
6. A helpful thing to do for a cat with mild digestive upset is:
- Withhold all water for the day
- Offer a bowl of milk to settle the stomach
- Always keep fresh water available
Show answer
Correct answer: Always keep fresh water available
Fresh water should always be available, especially when a cat is vomiting or has diarrhoea and risks dehydration. Avoid giving milk, as many cats are lactose intolerant and it can make things worse. If signs continue or worsen, contact your vet.