What can I add to my picky cat's food to stop frequent hairballs?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 3 years and 11 months old | 11 lbs
My cat gets frequent hairballs, but will not eat hairballs treats (I've tried many different brands) and won't even go near the paste. He's really picky about his food. Wondering if there is something I can add to his food that would reduce the number of hairballs he gets.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on December 26th, 2017
There are hairball diets that you could try out to see if Moose will try them out. Most are available from local pet stores. You can try mixing it in with his regular food, or transitioning to it completely if he enjoys it. You can also try to hide the paste or treats with something "tastier" such as a bit of warmed up boiled chicken- cats tend to go for things that are smelly rather than tasty, and the smell of the chicken may mask the scent of the hairball medicine enough to encourage him to try it.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on May 9th, 2020
Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Alfonso. Some cats do have frequent problems with hairballs. I recommend brushing him daily. That can help cut down on the formation of hairballs. I'd also recommend feeding him a hair ball formulated food. These foods can also help prevent the formation of hairballs. Royal Canin has a hairball food for cats that's excellent. There are also hairball gels you can give him which can help pass hairballs. You can try a brand like Nutri-Vet Feline Paw Gel. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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