Compiled by the editorial desk with reference to expert opinions from Jackson Galaxy and Dr. Gail Wolfe, as well as product testing conducted by The Spruce Pets.

Hairballs are a common feline nuisance, but for some cats they can become a serious health risk. When a cat grooms, its barbed tongue collects loose fur that is swallowed and can accumulate in the stomach, forming a clump that is eventually expelled by coughing or vomiting. While many cats manage this process on their own, others need help. According to cat behavior expert Jackson Galaxy, host of Animal Planet's My Cat From Hell, "When they can't expel it, it can become really dangerous." He adds that lubricating the digestive tract is "the only predictable way to help."

The market offers a range of solutions, from over-the-counter laxative gels to specially formulated foods and treats. The Spruce Pets consulted Galaxy and veterinarian Dr. Gail Wolfe to identify the most effective products and methods.

Laxative Gels: A Direct Approach

Most hairball remedies are essentially laxatives that help move the hair through the digestive system. As Galaxy explains, they typically combine petroleum jelly, mineral oil, and flavoring. The goal is to encourage the hair to pass in the stool rather than being coughed up.

One of the top-rated products is Tomlyn Laxatone Gel Hairball Control, which contains soybean oil, light mineral oil, malt syrup rich in antioxidants and B-vitamins, and omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids. This vet-approved formula supports both coat and skin health, and it is safe for kittens as young as four weeks old. The gel comes in maple, tuna, or catnip flavors, and can be administered by applying a quarter to half teaspoon to the cat's paw for self-grooming. It can be used daily to eliminate hairballs, then reduced to once a week for maintenance.

Another popular gel is Cat Lax, which uses cod liver oil and vitamin E to nourish the coat and improve digestion. An inch of gel squeezed onto the paw is usually licked off immediately. It is safe for daily use in average-weight cats, and kittens can also take it with adjusted doses, though consulting a veterinarian is advised.

Dietary Solutions: Food and Treats

For cats that prefer eating their remedy, several foods and treats are formulated to reduce hairball formation. Royal Canin Hairball Care wet food contains a special fiber blend and highly digestible proteins, including organ meats like liver and kidney, which help move hair through the digestive tract. It is designed for cats over one year old and can be paired with the brand's dry food for added hydration.

Purina ONE +Plus Hairball Formula dry food is another option, made in the United States with real chicken as the first ingredient. Its high fiber content aids digestion, and it also supports the immune system and coat. For cats that prefer wet food, Purina ONE Indoor + Hairball canned food uses ocean fish as the first ingredient.

Treats can also play a role. Temptations Indoor Care Crunchy and Soft Cat Treats (chicken flavor) contain less than two calories per treat, making them suitable for weight-conscious cats. The recommended serving is 16 treats per 10 pounds of body weight daily. Pet Honesty Cat Hairball Support Chews are another option, with a crunchy-outside, chewy-inside texture that appeals to picky eaters. These chews contain apple pomace, citrus fiber, psyllium husk, and omega-3s, and are made in the United States. The recommended dose is one pellet per pound of body weight.

Holistic and Grooming Approaches

For a more natural route, Weruva Pumpkin Patch Up! Pumpkin Pouches offer pumpkin puree in plain, coconut oil and flaxseed, or ginger and turmeric blends. These are recommended by holistic vets and are free of GMOs. They can be served as a treat, mixed into meals, or frozen into popsicles for a warm-day snack.

Prevention is often the best medicine. Regular brushing removes loose fur before it is ingested. The Mars Coat King Boar Bristle Cat Hair Brush was a favorite in a test of 23 brushes with real cats. Its soft bristles are gentle enough that cats don't avoid it, making it easier to establish a brushing routine. Its birchwood handle is comfortable for owners, and brushing a few times a week can significantly reduce hairball formation.

In addition to products, lifestyle habits matter. KJ Callihan, a writer for The Spruce Pets, relies on daily Temptations treats for her cat Arlo, along with regular brushing, vacuuming, and ensuring adequate water intake. Her veterinarian also recommended adding wet food to Arlo's diet to help manage hairballs.

When administering any hairball remedy, patience is key. Some cats will lick the gel from a finger, while others may need it applied to their paw or nose. Mixing it into food can also work. For cats that refuse pastes, treat-flavored pill pockets are an alternative.

Ultimately, the right approach depends on the cat's preferences and needs. Consulting a veterinarian is always recommended, especially for kittens or cats with underlying health conditions.

From laxative gels to fiber-rich foods and grooming tools, this guide outlines expert-backed methods to help cats pass hairballs safely and reduce their frequency. Learn about top-rated products, including Tomlyn Laxatone, Royal Canin, and Purina ONE, and get tips on administration and prevention.