Dogs and Hairballs

What Is a Hairball?

A hairball, also known as a trichobezoar, is a mass of hair that accumulates in the digestive system of an animal, usually a cat. Hairballs develop when animals groom themselves, and their rough tongues pull loose hair from their fur, which they then swallow. Most of this hair passes through the digestive system without issue, but sometimes the hair can accumulate in the stomach and form a hairball.

Hairballs can be problematic because they can cause blockages in the digestive tract. If a hairball becomes too large to pass through the digestive system, it can cause symptoms such as vomiting, constipation, loss of appetite, and lethargy. In severe cases, a hairball blockage can require surgery to remove.

Cats are not the only pets that can develop hairballs. Dogs can also develop hair-related digestive issues, although it is less common than in cats. If you suspect that your pet may be experiencing hairball-related issues or digestive problems, you should consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Do Dogs Get Hairballs?

Dogs typically do not develop hairballs like cats do, because cats have a rough tongue that they use to groom themselves and their fur tends to accumulate in their stomachs. However, dogs can still experience digestive issues related to hair, such as hairballs in their stomach or intestines, known as trichobezoars.

This condition occurs when a dog ingests a significant amount of hair, which can happen through excessive grooming, shedding, or licking. The hair can then form a mass in the stomach or intestines that can cause blockages, constipation, or vomiting.

Certain breeds, such as long-haired dogs, are more prone to developing hairballs, and dogs with allergies or skin conditions that cause them to lick or chew their fur excessively may also be at a higher risk. Regular brushing and grooming can help reduce the amount of hair that a dog ingests and lower the risk of developing hairballs. If you are concerned that your dog may have a hairball or is experiencing digestive issues, you should consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How to Prevent Your Dog From Hairball-Related Issues

Here a a few ways you can help prevent hair-related digestive issues and promote good overall digestive health your dog:

1. Regular grooming: Regular brushing and grooming can help remove loose hair and prevent your dog from ingesting excessive amounts of hair.
2. Proper nutrition: Feeding your dog a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in fiber and essential nutrients can help promote good digestive health and prevent constipation.
3. Plenty of water: Make sure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times to help keep their digestive system functioning properly.
4. Avoiding excessive licking and chewing: Dogs with allergies or skin conditions may be more prone to excessive licking and chewing, which can result in the ingestion of more hair. Treating these conditions promptly and providing appropriate chew toys can help redirect this behavior.
5. Regular vet check-ups: Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify and address any potential digestive issues before they become more serious.

By following these tips, you can help prevent hair-related digestive issues in your dog and promote overall good health.

Hairball Awareness Day

National Hairball Awareness Day is a day observed annually on the last Friday in April. This day is focused on raising awareness about hairballs in cats and promoting ways to prevent and manage them. While hairballs are a common issue among cats, as I mentioned earlier, dogs are not typically affected by hairballs in the same way. Nonetheless, it is always a good idea to be aware of potential health issues that could affect your pets and to take steps to prevent and address them. Regular grooming, a healthy diet, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help keep your pets healthy and happy.

For a full list of 2023 Pet Holidays to celebrate with your dog, checkout this blog post.