Why Do Cats Cough Up Hairballs?

Have you ever watched your cat cough up a hairball?  If you witnessed this feat first-hand, you know that it is not a pleasant experience for your pet and you may be wondering why it even happens.

The first thing to keep in mind is that coughing up hairballs is something that all cats do and is relatively common.  Cats lick their fur throughout the day to 1) groom themselves and 2) regulate their body temperature.  Cats' tongues have a very rough surface, like sandpaper, which can collect hair and then be swallowed.

Unfortunately, digesting hair is not something cats are equipped to do and over time, hair can build up in cats' stomachs.  Once hair reaches a certain size or starts to cause irritation, the can will regurgitate a hairball because it needs to relieve itself.

So, the next time your cat coughs up a hairball, don't be alarmed.  Just know that it is normal and part of being a furry feline.