Hairballs are a common concern for cats and a frequent challenge for cat parents. Simply put, hairballs are clumps of fur that form in a cat’s stomach and are eventually coughed up or regurgitated. While often harmless, they can cause discomfort and sometimes lead to health issues. Thankfully, there are effective ways to reduce hairballs and support your cat’s well-being.
What Are Hairballs?
Cats are meticulous groomers, and during self-cleaning, they often ingest loose fur. Over time, this fur can accumulate in the stomach or digestive tract. When too much hair collects, it may be difficult for the cat to pass naturally, resulting in the formation of hairballs.
Hairballs can impact your cat’s health in several ways:
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Nutrient loss – Frequent regurgitation can reduce nutrient absorption.
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Esophageal irritation – Straining to expel hair can irritate the throat.
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Potential medical issues – Chronic hairball problems may indicate or lead to gastrointestinal complications.
How Diet Can Help Reduce Hairballs
A cat’s diet plays a crucial role in managing hairballs. ACANA™ Indoor Entrée is specifically formulated for indoor cats and supports multiple health benefits, including hairball control. Its key features include:
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Improved digestibility – Enhanced fibre from oat groats, miscanthus grass, lentils, and chickpeas helps move ingested fur through the digestive tract.
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High-quality animal protein – Ingredients like chicken, turkey, whole herring, and rabbit provide essential amino acids for strong muscles.
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Balanced Omega fatty acids – Support healthy skin and a shiny coat, reducing shedding and grooming-related hair intake.
Feeding a nutritionally complete, fibrous diet helps prevent excess hair accumulation and promotes smoother digestion.
Brushing Your Cat Regularly
Regular grooming is an essential complement to a hairball-friendly diet. Brushing removes loose fur, reducing the amount your cat swallows. Tips for effective brushing:
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Undercoat brushes – Ideal for removing dead fur from dense undercoats.
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Start young – Introduce brushing while your cat is young to build tolerance.
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Consistency – Daily or several times weekly brushing is most effective.
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Observe preferences – Some cats prefer gentle brushing or specific brush types, so experiment to find what they enjoy.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
If your cat continues to experience hairballs despite dietary changes and regular grooming, it’s important to seek professional advice. Your veterinarian can:
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Assess the severity of hairball issues
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Identify underlying health concerns
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Recommend appropriate treatments or interventions
By feeding a high-quality, hairball-friendly diet like ACANA™ Indoor Entrée, maintaining a consistent brushing routine, and working closely with your veterinarian, you can significantly reduce hairballs and improve your cat’s comfort and overall health. With a little proactive care, hairballs can become a manageable — or even preventable — part of indoor cat life.
