7 Easy Remedies for Cat Hairballs

If you’ve ever heard your cat hacking and gagging before coughing up a hairball, you know it’s not exactly their most charming feature. Hairballs, or trichobezoars, just come with the territory of having a feline companion—especially if your cat is a frequent groomer. But too many hairballs aren’t just unpleasant for you; they can also make your cat uncomfortable. Luckily, there are lots of ways to find a good remedy for hairballs in cats.

Here are seven practical remedies for hairballs in cats that can help both you and your furry friend enjoy a hairball-free home.

1. Make Brushing Part of Your Routine

One tried-and-true remedy for hairballs in cats is simple: regular brushing. Cats swallow loose fur while grooming, and that’s what leads to those dreaded hairballs. By brushing your cat every day (or several times a week if their fur is short), you can remove much of the loose fur before it ever ends up in your cat’s stomach. Whether you use a slicker brush, a de-shedding tool, or a grooming mitt, taking a few minutes a day really makes a difference.

2. Try Hairball Control Cat Food

Another easy remedy for hairballs in cats is switching up their diet. Hairball control cat foods are higher in fiber and designed to help your cat’s digestive system move hair naturally through their body, so it leaves out the other end instead of on your floors. When you choose a new food, check for added fiber ingredients—then introduce it slowly over several days. This is a gentle but effective remedy for hairballs in cats that works for a lot of pet owners.

3. Give a Natural Fiber Boost

If you like your current cat food but want to help your kitty out even more, consider adding a fiber boost as a remedy for hairballs in cats. Many people add a small spoonful of plain, unsweetened canned pumpkin to their cat’s meal. Most cats actually like the taste, and it can gently keep things moving in their digestive system. You can also pick up a fiber supplement at the pet store; just go slow and see how your cat responds.

4. Use Over-the-Counter Hairball Remedies

There are lots of over-the-counter products made especially as a remedy for hairballs in cats. Hairball gels and pastes help lubricate your cat’s digestive tract, making it easier for swallowed hair to pass through. These usually come in cat-friendly flavors—which can make giving them to your cat a little easier! Just follow the package instructions and keep an eye out for any digestive changes.

5. Keep Your Cat Well Hydrated

Hydration might not be the first remedy for hairballs in cats you think of, but it’s an important one. When your cat is well-hydrated, their digestive system runs smoothly and is better able to move hair along. Make sure fresh water is always available, or consider adding a pet water fountain if your cat likes running water. Adding a bit of wet food to your cat’s diet can also help boost their moisture intake.

6. Encourage Play and Exercise

Believe it or not, regular playtime and exercise are another great remedy for hairballs in cats. Activity helps keep their digestive system active, too—which can keep swallowed fur moving along and out. Plus, daily play sessions are just fun and good for your cat’s overall well-being.

7. Know When to Talk to Your Vet

Sometimes, even the best remedy for hairballs in cats isn’t quite enough—especially if your cat is gagging often, or seems uncomfortable, constipated, or is losing weight. In these cases, it’s always smart to talk to your veterinarian. Chronic hairballs can be a sign of an underlying health issue, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if things don’t improve.

Trying out different remedies for hairballs in cats takes a little patience, but small changes can make a big difference. With the right routine, you’ll help your cat feel their best—and maybe save yourself some cleaning, too!