The only natural way for a cat to get rid of a hairball is by vomiting. Hairballs that don't pass out of a cat's system can block the intestines. There are medical ways to break down hairballs so they can safely pass through the cat's digestive system. The veterinarian said most cats with hairball problems respond to a daily dose of hairball remedy, a mild laxative, such as a commercial blend of flavored mineral oil. Another preventative measure is to feed the cat the brands of cat food or treats that offers a special formula to prevent hairball accumulation.
Rabbits are another pet susceptible to hairballs.
They also spend quite a bit of time grooming themselves and ingest much of their shed hair. Consult a veterinarian for specific treatment for rabbits with hairball problems. Recommendations on this web site do not endorse any commercial products or trade names.