If you have a cat, you know how worrisome hairballs can be, and what nasty little surprises they are when you find one unexpectedly.

Try these simple tips to keep your beloved cats hairball-free:

1. Regular brushing will reduce the amount of fur your cat ingests. Most cats adore being gently brushed, so keep a cat brush next to each of your favorite chairs. When kitty jumps in your lap, the brush will be handy.

2. Try a dab of non-petroleum jelly on your cat’s nose. When she licks it off, it will coat her stomach and prevent hairball build-up.

3. A teaspoon of fish oil poured on your cat’s food once a week is a good natural lubricant to help your cat pass the hairball through without having to vomit it up.

4. A spoonful of canned pumpkin or one teaspoon of bran daily are two other time-honored remedies for hairballs.