However, if the hair does not pass, it can accumulate as a hairball in the cat's stomach. This hair accumulation is a common problem in cats with long hair, says Dr. Paul. Cats with hairballs usually vomit occasionally and their hunger is satisfied by eating just a small amount of food. If the hairball is quite large, you may notice weight loss and loss of appetite as well. Treatment of hairballs depends on the individual situation.
Some cats are able to vomit the hairball if it's small.
If that is the case, no further treatment is necessary. A vomited hairball looks like a tubular, brown mass. If teased apart, you will find it composed primarily of hair. If your cat is unable to pass the hairball on its own, however, treatment will be needed. Commercial laxatives that are formulated for cats are available from your veterinarian or pet store.