Hairballs are often a sign that something deeper is going on in a cat’s digestive health, hydration status, or diet quality. Cats are obligate carnivores and naturally thrive on moisture-rich, species-appropriate foods. When a cat is fed primarily dry food, they tend to live in a constant state of low-grade dehydration, which can slow digestion and make it harder for swallowed hair to pass through the gastrointestinal tract. Supporting hydration, gut health, and natural digestion can make a significant difference in reducing hairballs and supporting overall wellness.

One of the most supportive things you can do is ensure your cat is receiving a balanced, moisture-rich, species-appropriate diet. Fresh, gently cooked, or balanced wet foods provide hydration that kibble simply cannot. If your cat is currently eating dry food and you are not ready to fully transition, you can begin by adding warm water or a high-quality bone broth to their meals. This small step helps increase moisture intake and supports smoother digestion without causing abrupt dietary stress.

Hydration should always be a priority. Cats have a naturally low thirst drive, so relying on a water bowl alone is often not enough. Adding moisture directly into meals, offering multiple water sources, and even using fountains can encourage better fluid intake, which helps the digestive system move hair and debris more efficiently.

Gentle fiber can also support healthy motility and help hair pass naturally instead of forming hairballs. Small amounts of psyllium seed husk powder mixed with water and added to food can help bind and move hair through the digestive tract. Other gentle options include a pinch of coconut fiber, a small amount of freshly cooked mashed pumpkin, or 100% plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling). Fiber should always be introduced slowly and in moderation to avoid digestive upset.

Healthy fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids, play an important role in skin, coat, and gastrointestinal health. A high-quality omega-3 source such as krill oil or a clean marine-based oil can help nourish the skin and coat, reduce excessive shedding, and support smoother digestion of ingested hair. This is particularly helpful for cats that groom frequently or have dry skin and excessive dander.

Regular grooming is a simple but powerful preventative step. Brushing removes loose hair before it is swallowed during self-grooming. Long-haired cats may benefit from daily brushing, while short-haired cats typically do well with grooming several times per week. This reduces the overall hair burden on the digestive system.

It is also important to avoid petroleum jelly and mineral oil-based hairball remedies. While commonly recommended, these products are petroleum-derived and do not support long-term gut health. Instead, a small amount of CocoTherapy Hairball Plus placed on the paw (so they lick it off naturally) or mixed into food can provide gentle lubrication for the digestive tract in a more natural way. This can be especially helpful for kibble-fed cats who often need additional digestive support.

Digestive enzymes can further support proper breakdown of food and improve nutrient absorption, which helps the gastrointestinal system function more efficiently overall. A well-functioning digestive system is far less likely to allow hair to accumulate and form hairballs.

Lastly, movement and enrichment matter more than many people realize. Regular play and exercise help stimulate natural gut motility, reduce stress, and support overall digestive health. A mentally and physically stimulated cat is less likely to overgroom from boredom or stress, which can also contribute to hairball formation.

Taking a holistic approach — focusing on moisture, digestion, coat health, and natural gut motility — addresses the root causes of hairballs rather than just masking the symptoms. This supports not only fewer hairballs, but better long-term health and vitality for your cat.