Best Dry Food for Hairball Control

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Long-coated cat breeds, such as Persians and Maine Coons, are prone to hairballs due to their thick, shedding coats. The single highest-stakes factor for these breeds is finding a dry food that reduces swallowed fur and eases hairball passage. Fiber-rich formulas and deshedding tools can help minimize the risk of hairballs, which can be a serious health issue if left untreated. Cats that ingest too much fur may experience digestive issues, vomiting, and even life-threatening blockages. A high-quality dry food specifically designed for hairball control can help reduce the amount of fur that is swallowed, making it an essential part of a long-coated cat's diet. By choosing the right dry food, owners can help reduce the risk of hairballs and keep their cats healthy and happy. With so many options available, it's essential to consider the specific needs of long-coated cats when selecting a dry food.

What to look for

Fiber Content

A high-fiber diet can help reduce hairballs by moving fur through the digestive system more efficiently. Look for dry foods with a minimum of 3% fiber content. Foods with psyllium or beet pulp can be particularly effective in reducing hairballs.

Kibble Size and Texture

The size and texture of the kibble can affect how easily cats can swallow it. Larger kibbles can help reduce the amount of fur that is swallowed, while smaller kibbles may be more suitable for older or senior cats. Some dry foods also have a unique texture that helps reduce hairballs.

Protein and Taurine Content

High-protein diets with adequate taurine can help support overall feline health. Taurine is an essential amino acid that helps maintain healthy vision, heart function, and digestion. Look for dry foods with a minimum of 30% protein on a dry matter basis and adequate taurine levels.

Deshedding Tools and Additives

Some dry foods contain deshedding tools or additives that help reduce the amount of fur that is shed. These can include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and other nutrients that support skin and coat health. Look for dry foods that contain these additives to help reduce shedding and hairballs.

Breed-Specific Risks

Long-coated cat breeds are prone to specific health risks, such as urinary issues and obesity. Look for dry foods that address these risks, such as foods with urinary tract support or weight management formulas. By choosing a dry food that addresses these risks, owners can help keep their cats healthy and reduce the risk of hairballs.

Our top picks

Hill's Science Diet Hairball Control

Best for Long-coated cats prone to hairballs

This dry food is specifically designed to reduce hairballs in long-coated cats. It contains a unique fiber blend that helps move fur through the digestive system more efficiently, reducing the risk of hairballs. The kibble size and texture are also designed to reduce the amount of fur that is swallowed.

✓ High-fiber content
✓ Unique kibble size and texture
✓ Supports overall feline health

✕ May not be suitable for cats with food sensitivities

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Royal Canin Hairball Control

Best for Long-coated cats with digestive issues

This dry food is designed to reduce hairballs and support digestive health in long-coated cats. It contains a blend of fibers and nutrients that help move fur through the digestive system more efficiently and reduce the risk of digestive issues.

✓ Supports digestive health
✓ Reduces hairballs
✓ High-quality protein sources

✕ May be more expensive than other options

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Purina Pro Plan Hairball Control

Best for Long-coated cats with skin and coat issues

This dry food is designed to reduce hairballs and support skin and coat health in long-coated cats. It contains a blend of omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients that help reduce shedding and promote healthy skin and coat.

✓ Supports skin and coat health
✓ Reduces shedding
✓ High-quality protein sources

✕ May not be suitable for cats with food allergies

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Wellness Core Hairball Control

Best for Long-coated cats with high energy levels

This dry food is designed to reduce hairballs and support high energy levels in long-coated cats. It contains a blend of high-quality protein sources and whole grains that help support overall feline health and reduce the risk of hairballs.

✓ High-quality protein sources
✓ Whole grains for digestive health
✓ Supports high energy levels

✕ May be more expensive than other options

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Taste of the Wild Hairball Control

Best for Long-coated cats with sensitive stomachs

This dry food is designed to reduce hairballs and support sensitive stomachs in long-coated cats. It contains a blend of novel protein sources and whole grains that help reduce the risk of digestive issues and support overall feline health.

✓ Novel protein sources
✓ Whole grains for digestive health
✓ Supports sensitive stomachs

✕ May not be suitable for cats with severe food allergies

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Frequently asked questions

What causes hairballs in cats?

Hairballs are caused by the accumulation of swallowed fur in the digestive system. Long-coated cat breeds are more prone to hairballs due to their thick, shedding coats. Other factors, such as digestive issues and food sensitivities, can also contribute to the development of hairballs.

How can I reduce the risk of hairballs in my cat?

To reduce the risk of hairballs, feed a high-quality dry food specifically designed for hairball control, provide regular grooming to reduce shedding, and consider adding deshedding tools or additives to your cat's diet. Consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

What are the symptoms of hairballs in cats?

The symptoms of hairballs in cats include vomiting, coughing, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, hairballs can cause digestive blockages, which can be life-threatening. If you suspect your cat has a hairball, consult with your veterinarian immediately.

Can hairballs be prevented?

While hairballs cannot be completely prevented, the risk can be reduced by feeding a high-quality dry food specifically designed for hairball control, providing regular grooming, and considering deshedding tools or additives. Consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

How often should I groom my cat to reduce hairballs?

The frequency of grooming depends on your cat's individual needs and coat type. Long-coated cat breeds require regular grooming to reduce shedding and prevent hairballs. Consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations on grooming frequency and technique.

For long-coated cat breeds prone to hairballs, a high-quality dry food specifically designed for hairball control is essential. By choosing the right dry food and providing regular grooming, owners can help reduce the risk of hairballs and keep their cats healthy and happy. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dry food option for your cat and to discuss additional ways to reduce the risk of hairballs.

Best Dry Food for other breeds

The same category, matched to a different breed.