Cats are very fussy with their hygiene and the overall health of their bodies. They will lick themselves until they are super clean and fresh. This makes them prone to hairballs which is just another common issue associated with cats, but can hairless cats also get hairballs?
You may think it’s absurd to even question if hairless cats can get hairballs but I promise you will be surprised at some of the potential causes of hairballs even in hairless cat breeds.
Here are 6 reasons why hairless cat owners think their cats have hairballs, the last one will amaze you!
1. Not So Naked Afterall!
There are some hairless cats that have patches of actual hair scattered on their bodies. Although it’s uncommon it’s actually possible.
Most hairless breeds like the sphynx and Devon rex breeds were created by a recessive mutation in the keratin gene.
This means that the protein involved doesn’t function or in some cases doesn’t function as well. It doesn’t mean hair can’t grow, but the follicle cannot hold the hair in place.
This means that they will be few variations of hairlessness, and you know once hair is evident it will fall off easily due to the mutation which can be ingested while grooming.
Possible hairballs can be formed.
2. Furry Siblings!
Homes with multiple pets normally allow pets to bond and interact together. As we know some hairless breeds like the sphynx are very playful and active almost exhibiting doglike behavior.
In the case of other dogs or cats living in the same home with a hairless cat, it’s possible for cross grooming and plays to occur. This can indirectly be the reason why your hairless cat presents with hairballs.
I know it sounds unfamiliar and absurd to an extent but trust me when I say these things happen more often than you expect. The relationship between pets in the same home is sometimes too close for comfort.
The shedding of pets can really travel to places you would never have imagined, your hairless cat’s belly is not off-limits.
3. Carpet And Rugs.
Nowadays there are all sorts of fancy types of rugs and carpets that offer a more aesthetically pleasing visual. Most of these fluffy fur ones are also a great addition to your living room, but they can also be the root cause of unknown hairballs.
We know hairless cats especially the sphynx breed have the tendency to be destructive. This excessive scratching and biting can lead away from their cat trees to a household furniture.
These carpets, blankets, curtains, or other bedding can cause your hairless cat to get hairball.
Pillow stuffing can also resemble hair and these fibers can be easily ingested while playing.
4. Vomiting / Gagging.
One of the major symptoms of hairballs in cats is vomiting, gagging, or retching. Although this is a correct way to diagnose hairballs it’s not accurate with hairless cats or shall I say partially hairless cats.
Many are not aware that hairless cats have sensitive stomachs. This makes them prone to excessive vomiting and inflammation.
This can confuse pet owners into thinking that their hairless cat might be trying to cough up a hairball instead of knowing that vomiting is a common occurrence with these hairless cats specifically the sphynx breed.
So next time your hairless cat is trying to vomit or gag monitor their behavior to accurately diagnose whether it’s a potential hairball or just an upset stomach.
5. Toys.
Toys are essentials for cats whether hairless or with a full coat. These felines simply adore toys and the thrill they get from them.
Especially with hairless cats, again specifically sphynx cats, I know from experience that these cats are extremely playful to the extent of being hyper and destructive.
Stuffed toys have this poly fiber stuffing inside them which without a doubt resemble hair. While playing these cats can ingest these fibers.
The build-up of these fibers in their throats can cause hairballs which could be the reason why your hairless cat is coughing up hairballs.
Inspect their toys, beds, blankets, and everything in their near surroundings to diagnose what could potentially be the problem.
6. Prey.
Due to their speed, athletic ability, and great sense of predatory instincts the sphynx breed makes for a great mouse catcher.
Their awesome hunting ability and their huge appetite can pose a problem since rodents are covered in fur and fur causes hairballs.
Im not saying that they will kill and eat the mice that they catch, I’m simply noting it down as a possible suggestion that can be the cause of uncommon hairballs in your hairless cat.
After all, rodents have become more of a problem in America entering at least 20 million homes uninvited.
