Expert: Becky - 1/16/2006

Question
I recently got a 6 year old Burmese from our local Humane Society.  I got him for Christmas, so I've only had him a short while.  But I've noticed that after he eats, he normally throws.  It's never very much.  I was told that is could possibly be hairballs and was wondering your opinion on it.  I've given him the "paste hairball removal" stuff, but it doesn't seem to be working.  Someone told me I could give him Tuna in Oil and that should help him pass it. Just wanted to get your opinion on it.  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Kristi!

Some cats are just pigs and overeat, then they are so full that they throw up!  LOL  That's the truth!  One of my cats does that, she overeats then a little while later, up some comes.  But she doesn't do it all the time, and if he does it every single time, then you may need to have him checked.  Cats (and dogs) can get intestinal blockages that will not allow food to pass and they have no choice but to throw it up.  If this is the case, he will do it every time, and it will be ALL that he ate, not just a bit. He will also begin to lose weight rather rapidly because he is not getting nutrition.   Chances are, that's not what it is, but just keep it in mind.  

As far as hairballs go, what I do is put a little bit of soft butter or margerine on their paws.  They will lick it off, and it will help the hairballs to pass.  Do it once a month and you shouldn't have a problem.

God Bless,
Becky