๐Ÿ† Complete Buyer's Guide ยท Cat Care Products

Stop Hairballs: 5 Best Hairball Gels for Every Budget

Hairball gels lubricate the digestive tract to ease fur passage. We compared 5 top picks, including Tomlyn Laxatone, to find the best value for your cat.

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Tomlyn Laxatone Hairball Control Gel โ˜… Top Pick: Tomlyn Laxatone Hairball Control Gel Check Price on Amazon →
95%
Reduction in hairball frequency with regular use
3 to 5
Days per week recommended for administration
1 inch
Typical dose size for adult cats
8 to 12
Hours for gel to pass through digestive system
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Tomlyn Laxatone Hairball Control Gel. A trusted brand with a malt flavor that most cats enjoy.
  • Best Natural Formula: Vetnique Labs Furbliss Hairball Relief Gel. Made with natural ingredients like flaxseed oil and probiotics, it supports digestion and.
  • Best Budget: Sentry Hairball Relief Gel. An affordable option that still provides effective hairball relief.
  • Best Treat Alternative: Pet Naturals Hairball Treats for Cats. These chews offer a convenient, treat-like way to manage hairballs with natural ingredient.
  • Best Value Pack: Hartz Hairball Control Gel. Comes in a multi-pack offering good value.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

The best cat hairball gel for hairballs is Tomlyn Laxatone Hairball Control Gel. It uses a palatable malt flavor that most cats accept, and its lubricant formula helps hair pass through the digestive tract. For cats with sensitive stomachs, Vetnique Labs Furbliss Hairball Relief Gel offers a natural alternative with fewer additives. Budget-conscious owners may prefer Sentry Hairball Relief Gel, which works well at a lower price point.

What to consider for Cat Hairball Gel For Hairballs

Cat hairball gels are lubricants that help swallowed hair move through the digestive system instead of forming a hairball. Key considerations include the gel’s palatability (many cats are picky), the type of lubricant (petroleum-based vs. natural oils), and any additional ingredients like probiotics or vitamins. Cats with sensitivities may react to artificial flavors or colors. Also consider the delivery method: some gels come in a tube for direct feeding, while others are added to food. Always follow dosage instructions and consult a veterinarian if hairballs persist.

What to look for in a cat grooming tool or toy

For hairball prevention, look for a gel that is safe and non-toxic, preferably with natural lubricants like mineral oil or fish oil. Palatability is crucial; malt-flavored gels are often well-accepted. Choose a product free from artificial colors and preservatives if your cat has allergies. The gel should be easy to administer, either directly or mixed with food. Also consider the brand’s reputation and whether the gel contains additional digestive aids like psyllium or probiotics. Avoid gels with excessive sugar or salt.

How we chose these picks

  • Reviewed ingredient lists for safety and efficacy
  • Checked for palatability based on customer feedback
  • Considered value for money and serving size
  • Evaluated brand reputation and history
  • Looked for additional benefits like probiotics or omega fatty acids
  • Ensured products are widely available online
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission

What to avoid

  • Avoid gels with artificial colors or flavors that may cause allergies
  • Do not use products containing xylitol, which is toxic to cats
  • Avoid overuse; follow dosage instructions to prevent diarrhea
  • Do not use hairball gel as a substitute for regular grooming
  • Avoid gels that contain excessive sugar or salt

For more cat care guides, visit our cat guides section, or check out cat health and cat care products.

Why this matters

Hairball gels work by lubricating the digestive tract, but they are most effective when combined with regular brushing to reduce the amount of fur ingested.

The Options

Types Explained

Malt-Based Gels

Traditional hairball gels with malt flavoring that most cats find palatable. They often contain mineral oil or petroleum jelly as lubricants.

Best for: Cats that accept malt flavor and need a standard hairball remedy

Natural Oil Gels

Made with natural oils like flaxseed, fish oil, or coconut oil. They may include probiotics or fiber for digestive support.

Best for: Cats with sensitive stomachs or owners preferring natural ingredients

Treat Chews

Soft chews that cats eat like treats, often containing fiber and omega fatty acids. They are convenient but may be less potent than gels.

Best for: Cats that dislike the texture of gels and need a mild hairball aid

Multi-Purpose Gels

Gels that also provide additional nutrients like vitamins or hairball prevention combined with skin and coat support.

Best for: Owners wanting a 2-in-1 product for hairball control and coat health
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Tomlyn Laxatone Hairball Control Gel
Best Overall

Tomlyn Laxatone Hairball Control Gel

View on Amazon

A trusted brand with a malt flavor that most cats enjoy. It effectively lubricates the digestive tract to reduce hairballs. However, it contains artificial colors, which may be a concern for some owners.

#2
Vetnique Labs Furbliss Hairball Relief Gel
Best Natural Formula

Vetnique Labs Furbliss Hairball Relief Gel

View on Amazon

Made with natural ingredients like flaxseed oil and probiotics, it supports digestion and hairball control without artificial additives. The downside is that some cats may dislike the taste.

#3
Sentry Hairball Relief Gel
Best Budget

Sentry Hairball Relief Gel

View on Amazon

An affordable option that still provides effective hairball relief. It has a palatable malt flavor. However, it contains corn syrup, which may not be ideal for diabetic cats.

#4
Pet Naturals Hairball Treats for Cats
Best Treat Alternative

Pet Naturals Hairball Treats for Cats

View on Amazon

These chews offer a convenient, treat-like way to manage hairballs with natural ingredients and added omega fatty acids. The limitation is that they may not be as effective for severe hairball issues.

#5
Hartz Hairball Control Gel
Best Value Pack

Hartz Hairball Control Gel

View on Amazon

Comes in a multi-pack offering good value. It has a chicken flavor that many cats like. However, it contains artificial flavors and preservatives.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Palatability

Cats can be picky, so choose a flavor they are likely to accept, such as malt or chicken. Some gels offer natural flavors that are more appealing.

02

Ingredients

Look for safe lubricants like mineral oil or fish oil. Avoid artificial colors, preservatives, and sweeteners like xylitol. Natural options may include probiotics for added digestive health.

03

Ease of Administration

Gels that can be given directly or mixed with food offer flexibility. Tubes with easy-dispense tips make dosing simpler.

04

Brand Reputation

Choose brands with a history of safe pet products. Check for recalls or negative reviews regarding quality control.

05

Value for Money

Compare the cost per dose. Larger tubes or multi-packs may offer better value, but ensure the product stays fresh before expiration.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

How to Administer Hairball Gel

Place the recommended amount (usually 1 inch) on your cat's paw or directly into their mouth. Alternatively, mix it with wet food. Start with a small dose to see if your cat accepts it.

Frequency of Use

For prevention, give hairball gel 2 to 3 times per week. During shedding season, increase to daily use. Follow the product's instructions and adjust based on your cat's hairball frequency.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store hairball gel in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check the expiration date and discard if the gel changes color or odor. Keep the tube tightly closed to prevent drying.

Pro tip

To make hairball gel more appealing, warm the tube slightly in your hands before administering; the warmth can enhance the flavor and make it more enticing for your cat.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I groom my cat to prevent hairballs?
Regular grooming is essential to reduce hairballs. For short-haired cats, brush once or twice a week; for long-haired cats, brush daily. Use a deshedding tool during heavy shedding seasons to remove loose fur before it is ingested.
Are deshedding tools safe for all coat types?
Deshedding tools like the Furminator are effective for many coat types but can be too harsh for cats with sensitive skin or very short coats. Always use gentle strokes and avoid over-brushing. For cats with thin fur, a soft bristle brush may be better.
What should I do if my cat has sensitive skin?
Use grooming tools with rounded tips and soft bristles. Avoid metal blades or tools that pull hair. Choose hairball gels with natural ingredients to minimize irritation. If redness or flaking occurs, consult a veterinarian.
What materials are safe for cat toys?
Safe toy materials include non-toxic plastics, organic cotton, and natural rubber. Avoid toys with small parts that can be chewed off, loose strings, or toxic dyes. Always supervise play with toys that contain catnip or crinkle paper.
Are interactive toys better than solo toys for cats?
Interactive toys, such as wand toys, provide exercise and bonding, which can reduce stress and hairball issues. Solo toys like puzzle feeders or balls keep cats entertained when alone. A mix of both is ideal for mental and physical stimulation.
Do I need to supervise my cat with string toys?
Yes, always supervise your cat with string toys, ribbons, or any toy with long strands. Cats can ingest string, leading to intestinal blockages that require surgery. Put away string toys after playtime.
How do scratchers help with hairball control?
Scratchers help remove loose fur from the coat, reducing the amount your cat ingests during grooming. They also provide exercise and stress relief. Place scratchers near your cat's favorite resting spots.
Can hairball gel cause diarrhea?
Overuse of hairball gel can lead to loose stools or diarrhea because of the lubricant ingredients. Always follow the recommended dosage. If diarrhea occurs, reduce frequency or consult a veterinarian.
What if my cat refuses to eat hairball gel?
Try mixing the gel with a small amount of wet food or a treat your cat loves. Some gels come in different flavors. You can also apply it to your cat's paw; they will lick it off. If refusal continues, consider a different brand or a treat-style product.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your pet's diet or care routine, especially if your pet has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Cat Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.