Hairballs are a natural by-product of cat grooming, but you can help decrease the amount of hair your cat ingests by brushing her often. Adding a little bran, Metamucil, or pumpkin to canned foods will also help during heavy shedding periods. The directions on these products tell you to squirt some of the jelly on the cat's feet so the cat will lick it off, but this method may leave your carpets a bit sticky. If your cat doesn't bite, I'd recommend putting the jelly on your finger and wiping it on the roof of her mouth.
Some cats routinely cough up hairballs twice a week, and some only twice a year.
If your cat is otherwise healthy, eating normally, maintaining normal weight, and vomiting mostly hair with little food, you do not need to seek medical care. However, if she does not respond to brushing to remove excess hair or to oral agents to help the hair pass, you might choose to have her examined by your veterinarian to rule out other problems. Otherwise, routine checkups once or twice a year are recommended. Inc. All rights reserved.