noun a compact mass of hair that forms in the stomach of some animals, especially cats, as a result of licking their fur
Hairballs are a common issue in cats, formed when they ingest hair while grooming themselves. They can cause digestive problems and vomiting.
Hairballs can sometimes be a sign of stress or anxiety in cats, leading to excessive grooming and ingestion of fur.
There are various commercial products available, such as hairball remedies and specialized cat foods, to help prevent and treat hairballs in cats.
Hairballs in cats can be prevented by regular grooming and providing specialized diets to help reduce shedding.
A veterinarian may use the term 'hairball' to refer to a common issue in cats where hair accumulates in the stomach and is regurgitated in the form of a ball.
A pet groomer may use the term 'hairball' to describe the clumps of hair that are removed from a pet during grooming sessions.
A zoologist may use the term 'hairball' when studying the diets and digestive systems of animals that commonly experience hairball issues.
An animal shelter worker may use the term 'hairball' when discussing the health concerns and care requirements of cats with potential adopters.
A wildlife biologist may use the term 'hairball' when analyzing the diet and health of wild feline species that are prone to hairball formation.