If your cat is suffering from frequent hairballs, it’s essential that they visit the vet. Blood tests, X-rays and other diagnostic tests may be needed in order to rule out an underlying issue that is causing their issue.
It’s also possible that a hairball could block the intestine, leading to vomiting and lethargy. These symptoms could indicate a more serious issue and should be addressed promptly.
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1. Petrolatum
If you’re in search of a kitten hairball treatment, there are several options. One option is Laxatone or Hairball Laxative (which comes in malt, chicken or fish-flavored flavors). Another possibility is giving your cat an equal amount of Vaseline or petroleum jelly daily to lubricate the ball of fur.
Petrolatum is a gel-like mixture composed of waxes and mineral oils that was first discovered in 1859 by American chemist Robert Chesebrough when he observed its gooey residue on oil pump parts at oil drilling sites.
It has become a widely used ingredient in skin care products and healing ointments for burns, diaper rashes, and raw noses. Additionally, it helps moisturize chapped lips.
Petrolatum, a widely-used and respected ingredient, has long been the subject of debate about its safety and environmental effects. The Environmental Working Group and governments around the world are concerned that it may contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), carcinogenic chemicals found in crude oil.
2. Laxatone
Laxatone is a lubricant that coats swallowed hairballs and helps them pass through your cat’s digestive tract. It contains white petrolatum, the same derivative of petroleum as Vaseline.
Gel form of this medication is available and can be administered by placing it on your cat’s nose or paws and then having them lick it up. Alternatively, you could give it to them along with their food.
Please only administer this medication as instructed by your veterinarian, and call them immediately if any side effects occur after taking this medication.
Hairball prevention and treatment should not be the sole treatments for constipation in cats. If your cat suffers from chronic or recurrent constipation or other signs associated with constipation, such as lethargy or vomiting, then other treatments such as probiotics should also be considered.
3. Olive oil
Olive oil is an effective and safe kitten hairball treatment. The oil lubricates the cat’s digestive tract, encouraging hairballs to pass naturally.
Sprinkle some cat food with magnesium oxide to help your kitten pass the hairball. Massage it into their skin and fur, especially after baths.
Olive oil can help cats pass their hairballs, and it may also be an effective solution for constipation in cats. Before trying this remedy, consult a vet first to determine the most beneficial course of action.
Oil can also be applied directly into your cat’s ear canal as a means to eliminate ear mites, which can cause serious inflammation and irritation in felines.
One teaspoon of oil per week should be enough to treat your cat’s ear mite problem, however you should exercise caution not to overdose as this could make your kitty sick or develop aspiration pneumonia, a potentially life-threatening condition.
4. Fiber
Fiber can help soothe hairballs in cats and reduce symptoms of other digestive issues. Soluble fiber dissolves in water to form a gel, which softens hard stools (aiding constipation) and firm up loose stools (relieves diarrhea).
Selecting the correct fiber product for your cat depends on their metabolic needs. Some cats benefit from a high-fiber formula that incorporates both soluble and insoluble fibers.
For others, a low-fat and hypoallergenic formula may work. Look for dry food with 8 – 10% crude fiber content or canned goods with 2 – 4%.
You could also give your cat a fiber supplement that contains psyllium husk, slippery elm and enzymes. Add it to their food or sprinkle some on their paw for added benefit.
