Fur Free Living The Power of Hairball Control Treats for Cats

The 5 Best Hairball Remedies For Cats

Note: Veterinary review of this article includes only the medical information in this article. The veterinarian reviewing this article does not personally endorse, recommend, or vouch for the efficacy or claims of any product mentioned in this article.

The best hairball remedies do more than help hair slide through your cats body. They treat the problem at its root by supporting overall digestive health.

Thats why we chose Cat Lax as the best hairball remedy on the market. This well known hairball gel contains a blend of ingredients that break up hairballs, prevent new ones from forming, and minimize shedding to keep hairballs at bay.

Before we learn more about Cat Lax and our other top five picks, lets talk about the types of hairball remedies and how they can help.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Hairball Remedies for Cats

Want a quick look at the products reviewed in this article? In the comparison table below, weve highlighted some of the most important features of each product. Youll find more detailed information about each product later in the article.

Overall Best

9.9

Picked by 31 people today!

• Contains a blend of lubricants
• Most cats like the gels flavor
• Affordable

Runner Up

9.8

Picked by 31 people today!

• Over 1,600 customer reviews, 4.5 star rating
• Cats seem to enjoy the tuna flavor
• Helps lubricate ingested hairs to prevent hairballs

BEST FOR BUDGET

9.6

Picked by 25 people today!

• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
• Controls hairballs while supporting digestive health
• Most cats like the way the gel tastes

BEST HAIRBALL PREVENTION SUPPLEMENT

9.4

Picked by 21 people today!

• Most reviews are positive
• Made from a blend of well-regarded ingredients
• Appears to be safe for cats

BEST HAIRBALL CONTROL TREAT

9.3

Picked by 18 people today!

• Contains fiber to help move hair through the GI tract
• Features prebiotics and probiotics for digestive health
• Free of potentially-harmful ingredients

Types of Hairball Remedies for Cats

Hairballs form when hair gets stuck or slowed on its way through the digestive tract, allowing it to form into a clump. Once it forms into a clod, hair is unable to continue its journey to the litter box and instead it gets stuck or heads in the opposite direction.

Hairball treatments come in many different forms. You can buy hairball remedies in a tube, try homemade remedies, grow a pot of cat grass, or groom your cat to keep him from ingesting his hair at all.

Some cats with frequent hairballs may have an underlying problem like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects motility of their intestines, so diagnosing and treating this could solve their problems.

Heres a quick breakdown of the types of hairball remedies available and how they work.

Fiber

Fiber supplementation helps to bind single strands of hair to food particles, which carry the hairs on their journey towards the colon. By encouraging the hair to move quickly through the body, fiber-based hairball remedies reduce the hairs chances of fusing into a ball and coming back up.

Additionally, a small amount of dietary fiber can help keep the digestive system functioning smoothly, correcting hairball problems at their roots.

Fiber-Based Hairball Remedies

The following are sources of fiber that, when integrated into your cats diet, may help hair move smoothly through the body.

• Psyllium Husk Powder
• Ground Chia Seeds
• Guar Gum
• Powdered Cellulose
• Cat Grass

Lubrication

The second type of hairball remedies includes products that lubricate ingested hairs, preventing them from sticking together.

Petrolatum (Petroleum Jelly)

Petrolatum, also known as petroleum jelly, paraffin oil, or white petrolatum, is a highly refined derivative of petroleum. After its been fully refined, petroleum jelly appears to be safe for cats and people.

If you decide to give your cat petroleum jelly from your medicine cabinet, check the back of the package to ensure that youre giving your cat 100% plain petroleum jelly with no scents or other additives.

Hairball Gels

Most products marketed as hairball remedies are petroleum jelly-based. Others use vegetable oils or beeswax instead of petrolatum. They contain added flavors and sweeteners like malt syrup, fructose, and dextrose.

Butter and Oil

Butter and olive oil are frequently recommended for hairball control, but as digestible fats, theyre more likely to make your cat chubby than keep him from hacking up a furball.

Mineral oil had previously been recommended for hairballs, but it carries the risk of aspiration (going down into the lungs) since it doesnt trigger a cough reflex.

Other Hairball Remedies

Egg yolks have interesting properties for hairball control. They contain choline and lecithin, which work together to, respectively, encourage GI contractions and emulsify the fat that binds hairballs together.

You can provide the anti-hairball power of egg yolks by feeding your cat fresh egg yolks or by giving him an egg yolk lecithin supplement. A safe and effective dose for lecithin has not been established for cats, and most supplements formulated for people contain much more than is present in hairball products for cats.

Slippery elm bark contains soluble fiber, which may help to soothe and lubricate the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and helping the hairball move in the right direction

Dietary Changes

Though hairball-specific cat foods usually focus on fiber alone, this isnt always the right approach.

If your cat is already eating a diet with a little bit of fiber, the best dietary change is finding a food that reduces inflammation. Hairballs often indicate digestive problems and should be approached the same way youd approach any other symptom of gut inflammation, like diarrhea or vomiting.

Typically, this would mean giving your cat a high-protein food made primarily from meat and animal fat. You want as little plant matter as possible. A moisture-rich diet is ideal.

Read Our Article On The Best Cat Food For Hairball Control

Grooming

Finally, you can control hairballs by brushing your cat a couple of times a week. If your cat has a long, thick coat, you might also give him a full-body clip in the warmer months. Capturing loose hair before your cat licks it up is the most reliable means of stopping hairballs.

Read Our Guide To The Best Cat Grooming Brushes

Top 5 Best Hairball Remedies Reviewed

The following hairball remedies are popular, top-rated products that have a reputation for safety and effectiveness. Most are lubricating products, but youll also find a few that take a different approach to hairball control, addressing it as a component of digestive health.

Ultimately, you dont want to have your cat on lubricants and other hairball treatments for the rest of his life. You dont want him to have hairballs.

The above hairball remedies can help, but theyre not a complete solution to the hairball problem.

If your cat coughs up hairballs more than a few times a year, his frequent hacking is probably connected to digestive problems. In this case, he probably doesnt need to be swept out with fiber or lubricated with greasehe might need to go to the veterinarian. Extremely frequent hairballs may be a symptom of organ dysfunction, IBD, and other conditions.

If you determine that your cats hairballs are caused by a digestive issue, you may want to consider treating the hairballs the same way youd treat any chronic digestive problem.

Adjust your cats diet to reduce inflammatory ingredients and consider incorporating probiotics, prebiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids to promote digestive health

Also Read: Best Cat Food for IBD

Greenies Hairball Treats for Cats Review

Pet owners, particularly feline lovers, are always seeking the best for their furry companions. One brand that has been widely discussed in recent years is Greenies and their hairball treats for cats. Lets dive deep into the world of these treats, examining their benefits, potential concerns, and what the community is saying.

1. What Are Greenies Hairball Treats?

Greenies Hairball Control treats are marketed as a tasty solution for cats who suffer from hairballs. They are designed not only to control the formation of hairballs but also to provide additional nutrients.

2. Benefits of Greenies Hairball Treats

• Tasty for Cats: Many owners report their cats adore the taste.
• Nutritional Supplement: They contain essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
• Hairball Reduction: They have a unique fiber blend intended to help reduce hairball formation.

3. Controversies and Concerns

However, as seen on platforms like Reddit and JustAnswer, some concerns surround these treats.

• Digestive Issues: Some owners have reported their cats vomiting after consuming the treats.
• Grain Content: Not being grain-free has raised eyebrows among some health-conscious pet owners.

4. What the Community Says

• On Reddits r/cats, users have discussed a shortage of these treats, signaling their popularity.
• Some users on r/petco have raised concerns about the nutritional value, comparing them to feeding cats sugar.
• Other users swear by them, highlighting their effectiveness in managing hairballs and their cats love for the taste.

5. Alternatives to Greenies

Given the divided opinion, its wise to know the alternatives:

• Dietary Changes: Consider a high-fiber diet which can naturally help with hairball control.
• Regular Grooming: Brushing your cat regularly can reduce the amount of hair they ingest.
• Other Treat Brands: If Greenies arent the right fit, other brands in the market offer similar benefits.

6. The Bottom Line

As with all products, what works for one cat might not work for another. Its essential to know your cats specific needs and consult with a veterinarian if youre concerned about introducing a new treat or if your cat experiences adverse reactions.

Conclusion

Greenies Hairball Control treats for cats have undeniably made a mark in the pet community. While many tout their benefits, its also crucial to listen to the concerns raised. Whatever you decide, ensure its in the best interest of your feline friend.

FAQ: Greenies Hairball Treats for Cats

Q1: How do Greenies Hairball Treats work?

Answer: Greenies Hairball Treats employ a unique blend of natural fibers that help to minimize hairball formation. As the cat consumes the treat, the fibers assist in moving ingested hair through the digestive system, preventing it from clumping together in the stomach. Additionally, the treats have an appealing taste, ensuring that cats are eager to consume them.

Q2: How often should I give my cat these treats?

Answer: Its recommended to follow the serving suggestions on the product packaging. Typically, for a 10-pound cat, around 4-5 treats daily are suggested. However, always ensure that treats make up no more than 10% of your cats daily caloric intake and consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Q3: Are Greenies Hairball Treats suitable for kittens?

Answer: Greenies Hairball Treats are primarily designed for adult cats. Kittens have different nutritional needs, and their digestive systems might be more sensitive. If considering any treats for kittens, always consult a veterinarian first.

Q4: Are there any known side effects?

Answer: While many cats enjoy these treats without any issues, some owners have reported digestive upsets, including vomiting. If you notice any adverse reactions in your cat after introducing these treats, its recommended to discontinue use and consult a veterinarian.

Q5: Do Greenies Hairball Treats come in different flavors?

Answer: Yes, Greenies offer a variety of flavors to cater to the diverse palates of cats. Some of the popular flavors include chicken and tuna. Its a good idea to try out different flavors to determine which one your cat prefers.

Q6: Can I rely solely on these treats for hairball control?

Answer: While Greenies Hairball Treats can be a helpful part of a hairball control regimen, they shouldnt be the sole solution. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and adequate hydration play crucial roles in managing hairballs.

Q7: Are there any grains in Greenies Hairball Treats?

Answer: Yes, some Greenies products contain grains. If youre keen on providing grain-free options for your cat, always check the ingredient list and consider other alternatives that align with your dietary preferences for your pet.

Q8: How should I store these treats?

Answer: To ensure freshness, its recommended to store Greenies Hairball Treats in a cool, dry place. Always reseal the bag after use to maintain the treats potency and taste.

Q9: Have there been any recalls on Greenies Hairball Treats?

Answer: Recalls can occur with any product, and its always a good practice to regularly check the FDAs pet food recall website or consult with your veterinarian for the most up-to-date information.

Q10: Can Greenies Hairball Treats replace a meal?

Answer: No, these treats are designed as a supplement and not as a replacement for regular meals. Always ensure that your cat has a balanced diet that meets all its nutritional needs.

Q11: Are Greenies Hairball Treats gluten-free?

Answer: Some Greenies products may contain gluten or gluten-derived ingredients. If your cat has specific dietary requirements or sensitivities, always scrutinize the ingredient list closely and consider consulting your veterinarian before introducing any new treat.

Q12: Can these treats help with other digestive issues besides hairballs?

Answer: While Greenies Hairball Treats are primarily formulated for hairball control, the natural fibers in them might assist in promoting overall digestive health. However, they arent designed to treat specific digestive issues. If your cat has persistent digestive problems, its essential to consult a veterinarian for specialized care.

Q13: How does the nutritional content of Greenies Hairball Treats compare to other hairball remedies?

Answer: Greenies Hairball Treats focus on a combination of taste and functionality, ensuring cats are attracted to the treats while benefiting from the hairball control features. When compared to other remedies, these treats might have a different caloric and fiber content. Comparing labels and understanding the needs of your cat are crucial steps before making a choice.

Q14: Are there any age-specific versions of the Greenies Hairball Treats?

Answer: Greenies primarily targets adult cats with its Hairball Treats. However, brands often expand or modify their product lines, so its advisable to regularly check the official Greenies website or trusted pet stores for the latest offerings.

Q15: If my cat is on medication, can I still give it these treats?

Answer: While Greenies Hairball Treats are generally safe for most cats, if your cat is on medication, you should always consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new treat or food. Some ingredients might interact with specific drugs or alter their effectiveness.

Q16: How sustainable are the ingredients in Greenies Hairball Treats?

Answer: Greenies, like many pet food brands, is increasingly focusing on sustainability. However, for precise details regarding the sourcing and sustainability of their ingredients, its best to refer to the companys official statements or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

Q17: Can I combine Greenies Hairball Treats with other forms of hairball remedies?

Answer: While it might be tempting to use multiple remedies for more effective hairball control, doing so without proper guidance can lead to over-supplementation. Before combining treatments, always consult your veterinarian to ensure its safe and effective for your feline friend.

Q18: If my cat doesnt like the treats, can I return them?

Answer: Return policies vary depending on where you purchase the product. While some retailers might offer returns or exchanges for pet food and treats, others may not. Always check the return policy of the store or online platform where you bought the Greenies Hairball Treats.

Q19: Are there any DIY alternatives to Greenies Hairball Treats?

Answer: There are various DIY recipes available online that focus on natural ingredients to help with hairball control. Ingredients like pumpkin can act as natural fiber sources. However, creating a balanced and effective treat at home requires careful consideration of nutrition and portion size. If youre considering a DIY approach, seek guidance from a veterinarian or a pet nutritionist.

Q20: Do these treats also support dental health?

Answer: Greenies has a range of products that promote dental health, and while the Hairball Treats might provide some dental benefits due to their texture, theyre primarily designed for hairball control. If dental health is a concern, you might want to explore products specifically formulated for that purpose.

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