Hairball Control Cat Food: Does It Work and What Else Helps?

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Cats swallow hair every time they groom, and most of it passes harmlessly. Sometimes, though, a wad collects in the stomach and comes back up as a tube-shaped hairball, often on your best rug. Diets labeled for hairball control promise to reduce this. Here is what they do, and what else you can do.

How hairballs form

A cat's tongue is covered in tiny backward-facing spines that catch loose hair. The hair is swallowed, and most of it travels through the gut and out in the stool. Some stays in the stomach and forms a mass, which the cat vomits. Long-haired cats, heavy shedders and cats that overgroom form more hairballs. See hairballs in cats.

What hairball diets contain

• Higher fiber, often from sources such as beet pulp, cellulose, psyllium or pea fiber. Insoluble fiber moves hair along, and encourages it to leave in the stool.
• Adjusted fat or oils, such as fish oil, to support skin and coat and reduce shedding.
• Digestible protein, for a healthy coat.
• Some formulas include ingredients such as prebiotics for gut health.

Do they work?

Some studies show that cats on high-fiber hairball formulas pass more hair in their stool, and some owners see fewer hairballs. Results vary. A few cats do not respond, and some do better with other approaches. Since there are no guarantees, diet is one tool, not the whole plan.

What helps just as much

1. Brush often. Removing loose hair before the cat swallows it is the most effective approach. Daily for long-haired cats, a few times weekly for short-haired cats. See how to brush a cat.
2. Bathe or wipe occasionally if your cat tolerates it. See how to groom a cat.
3. Keep your cat hydrated, since hydrated stools move more easily. See how to get a cat to drink more water.
4. Reduce stress and boredom that cause overgrooming. See why does my cat groom so much.
5. Treat skin problems. Allergies and fleas cause overgrooming. See cat skin allergies and fleas on cats.
6. Consider supplements only as advised. Hairball gels, usually petroleum-based, can lubricate, though overuse may interfere with vitamin absorption.
7. Consider a haircut for long-haired cats in summer, done by a groomer.

Switching to a hairball food

Change gradually over a week or so, to avoid stomach upset, since extra fiber can cause loose stool or gas at first. See how to switch cat foods. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for your cat's life stage.

Are hairball treats useful?

Treats with fiber or lubricants may help a little, but they are still treats. Count calories. See healthy cat treats.

What is normal, and what is not

A hairball every few weeks is common. But call your vet if your cat:

• Has hairballs more often than weekly.
• Retches repeatedly without bringing anything up.
• Has loss of appetite, lethargy, constipation or diarrhea.
• Vomits frequently, even without hair.
• Has a swollen or painful belly.

These may signal a blockage, or illnesses such as inflammatory bowel disease, thyroid disease or other conditions that mimic hairballs. See cat vomiting causes, inflammatory bowel disease in cats and constipation in cats.

Cats most at risk

• Long-haired breeds such as Persians and Maine Coons. See persian and maine coon.
• Heavy shedders in spring and autumn.
• Anxious cats or those with skin disease.
• Older cats, who groom more or move food slowly through the gut.

Hairballs and the environment

Vacuum and brush regularly, since swallowed hair from furniture and bedding is also a source. Offer cat grass, which some cats use to help vomit hair. Keep grass pesticide-free. See is catnip safe for cats for other plant questions.

Seasonal care

Shedding peaks in spring and autumn, and indoor cats shed all year. Increase brushing at those times, and wipe your cat with a damp cloth to pick up loose fur. Wash bedding often, and vacuum furniture. A little extra effort in the heavy shedding months makes a big difference to hairball frequency.

Making brushing pleasant

Start with short sessions, use a soft brush, and reward with a small treat or play. Most cats come to enjoy it, and it doubles as bonding time.

When to see a vet

See a vet if your cat has repeated retching, vomiting or signs of blockage. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.