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Vet Recommended Cat Treats for Long Hair Cats 2026

Long hair cats need fiber to push out hairballs. Discover the top pick Hill's Science Diet Hairball Control Treats, chosen by experts for daily care.

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Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Treats โ˜… Top Pick: Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Treats Check Price on Amazon →
5
Picks Compared
2 to 4
Treats Per Day (typical)
1 to 2
Calories Per Treat
Fiber
Key Ingredient for Hairball Control
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Treats. These treats feature chicken as the first ingredient and natural fiber to help reduce hair.
  • Best Budget: Purina Pro Plan Hairball Management Treats. An affordable option with real chicken and added fiber for hairball control.
  • Best Soft Treats: Greenies Feline Hairball Control Soft Treats. Soft and chewy texture makes them ideal for cats with dental issues or picky eaters.
  • Best for Sensitive Stomach: Blue Buffalo Wilderness Hairball Control Treats. Made with deboned chicken and free from corn, wheat, and soy.
  • Best Grain-Free: Wellness CORE Grain-Free Hairball Control Treats. Grain-free recipe with turkey as the first ingredient, plus added fiber and probiotics for.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

The best cat treat for long hair cats overall is Hill’s Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Treats. They contain natural fiber to help reduce hairballs and are made with chicken as the first ingredient. For a budget-friendly option, Purina Pro Plan Hairball Management Treats offer similar benefits at a lower price. If your cat prefers soft treats, Greenies Feline Hairball Control Soft Treats are a great alternative.

What to consider for Cat Treats For Long Hair Cats

Long hair cats are prone to hairballs because they ingest more fur during grooming. Treats formulated for hairball control typically include fiber sources like cellulose or psyllium to help move hair through the digestive tract. Additionally, omega fatty acids can support skin and coat health, reducing shedding. When choosing treats, look for those that are low in calories to avoid weight gain, and ensure they are appropriate for your cat’s life stage and health status.

What to look for in a cat food

When selecting any cat food, ensure it has an AAFCO statement confirming it is complete and balanced for your cat’s life stage. The first ingredient should be a named meat source like chicken or salmon. Adequate animal protein and taurine are essential for heart and eye health. Wet food can help with urinary health due to higher moisture content, while dry food may be more convenient. Always consider your cat’s specific needs, such as age, weight, and any medical conditions.

How we chose these picks

  • We evaluated treats based on ingredient quality, focusing on named meat as the first ingredient.
  • We prioritized treats with added fiber for hairball control, such as cellulose or psyllium.
  • We considered calorie content to prevent overfeeding and weight gain.
  • We checked for omega fatty acids to support skin and coat health.
  • We reviewed customer feedback and brand reputation for safety and palatability.
  • We ensured treats are appropriate for adult cats or all life stages as needed.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Avoid treats with no named meat or low animal protein content.
  • Steer clear of treats lacking taurine, as it is essential for cats.
  • Do not default to all-life-stages treats for kittens or seniors without checking specific nutritional requirements.
  • Avoid abrupt diet switches; introduce new treats gradually over 7 to 10 days.

For more cat care resources, visit our cat guides, cat food, and cat health sections.

Why this matters

Long hair cats are more prone to hairballs due to increased fur ingestion during grooming, making fiber-rich treats a practical addition to their diet.

The Options

Types Explained

Crunchy Treats

Hard, baked treats that help clean teeth and provide a satisfying crunch. Often contain fiber for hairball control.

Best for: Cats who enjoy crunchy textures and need dental benefits.

Soft Treats

Chewy or moist treats that are easy to eat, ideal for senior cats or those with dental issues. Can be broken into smaller pieces.

Best for: Picky eaters or cats with sensitive mouths.

Freeze-Dried Treats

Single-ingredient or minimally processed treats made from raw meat or organs. High in protein and low in carbs.

Best for: Cats on a raw or high-protein diet.

Hairball Formula Treats

Specifically formulated with added fiber and sometimes lubricants to help prevent hairballs. Often include omega fatty acids for coat health.

Best for: Long hair cats prone to hairballs.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Treats
Best Overall

Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Treats

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These treats feature chicken as the first ingredient and natural fiber to help reduce hairballs. They are low in calories and made with high-quality ingredients. However, some cats may find the crunchy texture less appealing if they prefer soft treats.

#2
Purina Pro Plan Hairball Management Treats
Best Budget

Purina Pro Plan Hairball Management Treats

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An affordable option with real chicken and added fiber for hairball control. They are formulated to support digestive health. The trade-off is that they contain corn and wheat, which may not suit cats with grain sensitivities.

#3
Greenies Feline Hairball Control Soft Treats
Best Soft Treats

Greenies Feline Hairball Control Soft Treats

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Soft and chewy texture makes them ideal for cats with dental issues or picky eaters. They contain natural fiber and are low in calories. However, they have a higher carbohydrate content compared to some other options.

#4
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Hairball Control Treats
Best for Sensitive Stomach

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Hairball Control Treats

View on Amazon

Made with deboned chicken and free from corn, wheat, and soy. They include fiber and omega fatty acids for coat health. The downside is that they are slightly more expensive per treat than other brands.

#5
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Hairball Control Treats
Best Grain-Free

Wellness CORE Grain-Free Hairball Control Treats

View on Amazon

Grain-free recipe with turkey as the first ingredient, plus added fiber and probiotics for digestion. They are high in protein. A limitation is that they may be too high in protein for cats with kidney issues.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Fiber Content

Look for treats with natural fiber sources like cellulose, psyllium, or beet pulp to help move hair through the digestive tract and reduce hairball formation.

02

Calorie Density

Treats should be low in calories to prevent weight gain. Check the calorie content per treat and adjust your cat's daily food intake accordingly.

03

Ingredient Quality

Choose treats with a named meat as the first ingredient, such as chicken or salmon. Avoid artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.

04

Texture Preference

Some cats prefer crunchy treats, while others like soft or chewy textures. Consider your cat's dental health and personal preference when selecting.

05

Life Stage Appropriateness

Ensure the treats are suitable for your cat's life stage (kitten, adult, senior). Some treats are formulated for all life stages, but check the label.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Brushing Routine

Brush your long hair cat daily to reduce loose fur and minimize hairballs. Use a stainless steel comb or slicker brush to remove tangles and mats.

Dietary Fiber

Incorporate fiber-rich treats or food to help hair pass through the digestive system. Consult your vet before adding fiber supplements.

Hydration

Ensure your cat drinks enough water to aid digestion and prevent hairballs. Consider a pet fountain or wet food to increase moisture intake.

Pro tip

Introduce new treats gradually over 7 to 10 days to avoid digestive upset, and always provide fresh water alongside treats.

Frequently asked questions

How many hairball control treats can I give my cat per day?
Most hairball control treats recommend 2 to 4 treats per day for an average adult cat, but always follow the feeding guidelines on the package. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat's daily caloric intake. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain and nutritional imbalances. If your cat has a medical condition, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Are wet treats better than dry treats for hairball control?
Both wet and dry treats can be effective for hairball control if they contain adequate fiber. Wet treats have higher moisture content, which can aid digestion and help move hair through the tract. However, dry treats are more convenient and often have a longer shelf life. The best choice depends on your cat's preference and dietary needs.
Do grain-free treats lack taurine?
Grain-free treats do not inherently lack taurine. Taurine is an essential amino acid that must be added to cat food because cats cannot produce it. Reputable grain-free treats include added taurine to meet nutritional requirements. Always check the label for taurine content, regardless of whether the treat is grain-free or not.
Can I give kitten treats to my adult long hair cat?
Kitten treats are formulated for growth and may have higher calorie and protein levels than adult treats. While occasional feeding is unlikely to cause harm, it is best to choose treats designed for your cat's life stage to ensure proper nutrition. Adult cats may gain weight if fed kitten treats regularly.
What treats are best for senior long hair cats?
Senior cats may benefit from soft treats that are easy to chew, especially if they have dental issues. Look for treats with joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine or omega fatty acids for coat health. Also, ensure the treats are low in phosphorus and sodium if your cat has kidney or heart concerns. Always consult your vet for specific recommendations.
Can treats help prevent urinary tract issues in long hair cats?
Treats alone cannot prevent urinary tract issues, but some treats are formulated to support urinary health by promoting a healthy pH balance or increasing water intake. However, the primary prevention includes a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and regular veterinary checkups. If your cat has a history of urinary problems, consult your vet before introducing new treats.
Are low-calorie treats important for weight management?
Yes, low-calorie treats are crucial for weight management, especially for indoor or less active cats. Many hairball control treats are low in calories, but you should still monitor total daily intake. Overfeeding treats can lead to obesity, which exacerbates health issues. Use treats sparingly and consider using part of your cat's regular food as treats.
How can I get my picky long hair cat to eat hairball control treats?
If your cat is picky, try offering treats with strong flavors like salmon or chicken. Soft treats may be more appealing than crunchy ones. You can also crumble treats over wet food or mix them into a small amount of canned food. Introduce new treats gradually and be patient. Some cats may need time to accept a new texture or flavor.
Do hairball control treats work for all long hair cats?
Hairball control treats can reduce hairball frequency in many cats, but they may not eliminate hairballs entirely. Effectiveness depends on the cat's grooming habits, diet, and overall health. Regular brushing and a high-fiber diet are also important. If your cat continues to have frequent hairballs or shows signs of distress, consult your veterinarian.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog 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 Food, 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.