Use a small strip of the paste on the cat’s fur. If your cat shakes it off its front paw, try smearing it lightly underneath the front elbow. [3] X Research source Hairball pastes come in fun flavors your cat will likely enjoy, such as salmon. You may be able to just put some on a plate for your cat to lick. In most cases, you’ll need to give your cat multiple applications of the hairball paste. Treat your cat with the paste twice a day for 3 to 5 days until the hairball passes.

If your cat shakes it off, try placing it in an area that’s more difficult for it to shake off, such as underneath the front leg.

These are an easy solution because there’s no messy paste or gel. Your cat will often just chomp them down. Once your cat passes its hairball, continue to give it the hairball remedy treats to prevent future hairballs.

This foods employ different methods to treat hairballs, such as increasing fiber or omega-3 fatty acids in the food.

Other fiber options you can try include wheatgrass powder, coconut fiber powder, or psyllium seed husk powder. Mix a 1⁄2 teaspoon (2. 5 mL) or so into the cat’s wet food.

While you can use this treatment every once and a while, try not to use it weekly. Your cat’s body prefers meat-based fat sources.

Not eating could be a sign your cat’s digestive system is blocked by a hairball.

You should also check to see if your cat is defecating. If it’s not, then it definitely has a blockage and needs to be seen by a vet. Alternatively, your cat may have diarrhea because it can’t get much around the blockage. [9] X Research source

Plus, the problem may not be a hairball, and you’ll need your vet to diagnose it.

During this time, the vet will likely be asking you questions about the cat’s medical history and its recent symptoms.

If the blockage isn’t serious enough for the cat to stay, your vet will make recommendations for home remedies, such as mineral oil. [15] X Research source

If your cat gets in this position and often doesn’t produce anything when hacking, that could be a sign of asthma.

Your cat may stick its tongue out while coughing.

If your cat is having a particularly hard time breathing, it may breathe with its mouth open.

Your cat may have a build up of shed hair, which is causing its hairballs. Even short-haired cats shed and need grooming!

Clean your comb and brush after each grooming session.

Remember to clean your brush after each grooming session.