Cats typically cough up hairballs every few weeks to a few months. Because cats groom themselves meticulously, they swallow loose hair that collects in the stomach and forms a fur ball. When it becomes too large, the cat coughs it up.
Frequency varies based on coat length, shedding season, diet, and underlying health. Long-haired cats and those shedding heavily tend to produce more hairballs. A fiber-rich diet can help move hair through the digestive system.
If your cat is coughing up hairballs frequently or excessively, consult a veterinarian, as this could indicate a health problem.