Cat throwing up, hairball suspected. Is coconut oil safe? What to do?

Coconut oil is safe, but I can't tell you for sure or not if it will work! If Kyra will allow it, the best thing to prevent hairballs would to brush her frequently to remove the extra hair so that she doesn't swallow it when grooming. Here is some more information about hairballs in cats: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=3558

Excessive amounts of any fat (such as coconut oil) can cause diarrhea, but coconut oil is not a problem for cats otherwise. In fact, many people recommend feeding coconut oil for a healthy coat since it contains good fats. I hope that was helpful and answered your question. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

It sounds as Jojo is suffering from a gastrointestinal condition, possibly an infection. it could also be due to ingestion of a foreign body material. the coconut could also be the cause. i would recommend taking her to the vet the first chance you get, she will need to be checked first, if the vet thinks it's a simple gastrointestinal infection she will need an anti vomiting injection, antibiotics and a special food for a few days in order to get better.

I don't recommend to do this. Olive could cause significant GI upset. Instead use a product like Laxatone. You may also switch your food to a hair ball formula. I recommend the formula by Royal Canin. daily brushing will also help. If Oliver continues to have problems, have him examined by the veterinarian.

Liquid paraffin (5mls every 12 hours) or specific products like katalax can be used to lubricate gastrointestinal system and avoid obstructions. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

I would not suggest using Vaseline or mineral oil for your cat. These products can contain substances that are harmful when ingested. Your vet should have a product similar to the one you've been buying and if not ask them to order Laxatone. I would only recommend giving your cat VET approved medications and supplements. Human doctors and pharmacists may be well intentioned, but they are not familiar with feline anatomy and what could possibly hurt them. ALWAYS talk to your vet first.

Olive oil is safe to give to cats, so a small amount may help, however if there is a severe intestinal obstruction it likely won't clear it. If the oil doesn't help, or the vomiting continues, veterinary care is unfortunately needed, and many emergency clinics are still open for services. Other things to try can include feeding smaller meals more often so that Mama isn't eating a huge amount in one meal, which may help her better keep down what she is eating.