Trichobezoar/Hairball symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting, anorexia, and hair loss. It is also a possible cause of gastrointestinal obstruction. It is typically associated with cats and dogs. Depending on the cause of the problem, surgical intervention is often necessary. Having a trichobezoar can lead to a number of serious complications, including intestinal blockage, bleeding, and death.
A trichobezoar is a foreign mass in the digestive tract that consists of indigestible hair, wool, or other fibers. The mass may or may not contain bits of food, but it will typically be moist. Because it is unable to be re-absorbed, it cannot be passed through the GI tract. It will eventually enlarge until there is no room for it.
While humans can develop hairballs, trichobezoars are most commonly found in animals. Some examples are rabbits, cats, and dogs. They can also be found in laboratory rats. However, they are much less common in these species. The most important factor for reducing the risk of developing a trichobezoar is maintaining a high-fiber diet. This helps move the hair through the gastrointestinal tract.
When a trichobezoar becomes large, it can block the esophagus and pylorus. This can result in an obstruction that can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and lack of bowel movement. In some cases, the obstruction can be so severe that the trichobezoar will need to be surgically removed. Occasionally, the hairball will move out of the stomach into the intestine.
In the case of a trichobezoar, the patient may have no clue that they are eating their hair. This can make it very difficult to diagnose the condition. A thorough physical and psychiatric examination will help to determine if a trichobezoar is present. If it is, the veterinarian will recommend medications and supplements. Depending on the cause, the cat might be sent home with specific instructions.
Symptoms of a hairball can be mild, such as nausea and headaches, or they can be more severe, such as a perforation. When a trichobezoar is large enough to block the esophagus and/or pylorus, surgical treatment is usually required. Because a trichobezoar can be a dangerous health threat, the cat should be treated as soon as the hairball is discovered. In most cases, the cat will respond well to surgery.
Some animals, such as cats and dogs, are predisposed to having a hairball. This is particularly the case in cats with gastrointestinal disease. The condition is also more common in females than in males. In addition, longer-haired animals are at greater risk.
Rapunzel syndrome is a rare form of trichobezoar. It is named after the fairy tale character Rapunzel, who is able to let her long hair fall through a tower window to save her prince. In this condition, the hair ball will be enlarged and reaches the entire length of the small intestine.
Although it is rare, it can be very painful and life-threatening. Symptoms of a trichobezoar can include anorexia, weakness, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The animal may require surgery, which can be life-saving.
