Votre chat crache des boules de poils? 7 solutions naturelles 2025

Hairballs are a common issue among our feline companions. I say "issue" because, while they are frequent, they are not necessarily normal.

Since hairballs are of veterinary significance, they even have a scientific name: trichobezoars.

If you are a cat owner, I invite you to keep reading to learn the best ways to handle your cat’s hairballs. But first, let’s understand why your cat might be vomiting hair.

Why Does My Cat Develop Hairballs?

As you may know, our feline friends use their tongues to groom themselves. Unlike dogs, they spend long hours licking their fur to clean it, remove dead hair, or eliminate small debris.

A cat’s tongue is incredibly rough. It is covered in tiny keratin spines that act like a comb. Thanks to these tiny hooks, cats remove excess fur, especially during shedding seasons.

When long-haired cats (such as Maine Coons or Persians) groom themselves, their digestive system can become overloaded with fur. This is how hairballs form.

However, the fur a cat swallows during grooming is usually eliminated through its stool. Not all cats vomit hairballs.


Excessive grooming—due to anxiety, pain, or even boredom—can also increase hairball formation. Additionally, a cat with a gastrointestinal issue may develop hairballs because its digestive tract struggles to process and eliminate fur properly.

This is why hairballs should be discussed with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues. Sometimes, hairballs are not the problem but rather a symptom—especially in short-haired cats.

That being said, hairballs are relatively easy to detect and prevent in a healthy cat. Keep reading to learn more about these sticky little surprises.

How Do I Know If My Cat Has a Hairball?

If your cat vomits hairballs, you will likely find a gelatinous mass of fur, often cylindrical due to the feline digestive system’s shape.

Cats usually expel them with sounds resembling coughing—a clear sign of imminent regurgitation.

Although difficult to prove, some believe that cats eat grass or plants to induce vomiting, which could indicate an attempt to expel a hairball.

Is It Normal If My Cat Doesn’t Vomit Hairballs?

Yes, it is completely normal! Not all cats need to vomit hairballs. A cat with a healthy digestive system often passes ingested fur in its stool without any issues.

Additionally, some cats swallow less fur while grooming, especially if they have short hair or are brushed regularly.

What Natural Remedies Help Treat My Cat’s Hairballs?

If your cat struggles with trichobezoars, there are ways to help.

How Can I HELP My Cat Pass a Hairball?

How Can I PREVENT Hairballs?

Here are 7 natural solutions to manage your cat’s hairballs:

1) Hairball Lubricating Pastes

Certain veterinary-approved malt-based pastes can help lubricate the digestive tract and allow hairballs to pass naturally.

2) Oils

Some suggest giving cats oils, but caution is advised. Unlike pastes, oils can pose risks if aspirated, leading to pneumonia. Additionally, some oils are absorbed before they can help with lubrication.

3) Regular Brushing

Brushing your cat regularly reduces loose fur, helping to minimize hairballs—especially for long-haired cats or during shedding seasons. Plus, grooming sessions strengthen your bond with your feline friend!

4) High-Fiber Diet

Fiber promotes a healthy digestive system, allowing fur to pass naturally through the stool. It also supports a shiny coat, reducing excessive shedding.

5) Environmental Enrichment

Cats prone to excessive grooming due to stress or boredom may develop more hairballs. Providing engaging toys, interactive play, or even leash training can help reduce stress-related grooming.

6) Natural Anti-Parasitic Products

Flea infestations can cause excessive licking. Click here for natural flea control solutions.

7) Cat Grass

Cat grass can be an effective natural remedy to help with hairball prevention and elimination by aiding digestion and promoting a healthy intestinal transit.

Is Your Cat Coughing But Not Vomiting Hairballs?

In more severe cases, if your cat is unable to vomit a hairball, it could lead to an obstruction. A buildup of hair can completely block the digestive tract, often requiring surgery to resolve the issue.

How Can You Tell If Your Cat Has a Blocked Hairball?

Signs of a Hairball Obstruction:

• Your cat coughs or tries to vomit, but nothing comes out
• Your cat vomits but only expels small amounts of liquid
• Loss of appetite (should be addressed immediately!)
• Constipation
• Lethargy
• Swollen abdomen

An untreated blockage can be life-threatening. If your cat is struggling to expel hairballs due to an obstruction, seek veterinary attention promptly.

Additionally, other conditions can cause coughing in cats. A coughing cat isn’t necessarily trying to expel a hairball!

• It could be suffering from a virus
• It might have swallowed a foreign object, like a string
• It could be experiencing asthma

Again, persistent coughing should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Respiratory issues in cats are serious and require immediate attention.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while hairballs are common, they should not be ignored. Many cats will struggle with this unpleasant issue, but now you have the knowledge to help prevent and manage hairballs effectively!

If you are concerned that your pet may be experiencing a health problem, our Free Pet Health Recommendation can assist you. Our Natural Health Advisors provide guidance on the best treatments and products suited to your pet's specific needs.