Cat owners know the aggravating and painful hair balls can be. They may cause vomiting, gagging, lethargy and constipation.
Thankfully, there are a variety of products that can help your cat reduce or prevent hairballs. This article will highlight some of the best options for both you and your feline friend!
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1. Try a laxative
If your cat has been having hairballs for some time and you suspect a digestive issue, try using a laxative. These drugs are generally safe for cats of all ages and can alleviate various symptoms like coughing, vomiting or gagging.
Popular, top-rated products have earned a reputation for safety and effectiveness. Most of them are lubricating products, but you may also find some that take a preventive approach to hairballs.
2. Try a natural solution
Hairballs are the result of a cat’s grooming habits, when swallowed hair is passed through their intestinal tract and excreted as feces or becomes compacted in the stomach and regurgitated.
Thankfully, there are numerous solutions to help prevent these icky messes. Some products even cater to cats specifically, helping them digest and eliminate their hairballs more quickly!
Pet Naturals of Vermont’s chicken-flavored treats are an irresistible way to keep your cat content and reduce hairball formation. Plus, these treats contain nutrients that promote healthy skin and coat (less shedding!), proper digestion, and urinary health.
3. Try a gel
Gels are an effective way to prevent cat hairballs. Most are petroleum jelly-based and safe for your furry friend to use.
Some of them even contain fish oil to promote healthier skin. You can find these in flavors that appeal to your cat as well.
Unlike tablets, you can apply this gel directly onto your cat’s paw or nose and let them lick it up themselves. Some even suggest putting it on their food or in their water bowl for added convenience.
Tomlyn Laxatone is an ideal solution for cats with frequent hairball issues. The gel lubricates and dislodges these balls, making them easier to pass through your pet’s fur.
4. Try a soft chew
If your cat is prone to hairballs, a soft chew can be an effective way to treat and prevent them. They contain natural ingredients which help eliminate or reduce the likelihood of hairball formation.
This treatment is safe to use on all cats and kittens, as well as overweight pets. It contains no petrolatum or petroleum jelly and has been veterinarian-formulated for decades.
Additionally, this product is free from sugar and suitable for diabetic or overweight cats.
Chicken-flavored gel that’s licked off of your kitten’s paw helps lubricate their digestive system while covering any ingested hair. Plus, it contains natural oils which reduce shedding and prevent hairball formation.
5. Try a spray
If your cat is having issues with hairballs, you might want to give a spray a try. Not only does this reduce shedding but it can also prevent new ones from forming in the first place!
This product comes in various varieties and should be sprayed onto your pet’s paw on a regular basis. Not only is it safe to use, but the chicken-flavored gel tastes delicious on your cat’s paw!
Hairballs in your cat’s digestive system can lead to serious intestinal issues. Not only are these painful, but they may also blockage of the small intestine – which may be life threatening and require surgery for removal.
