How to Pick the Right Cat Hairball Remover Paste
By The Pet Health Club Shop | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to choose a cat hairball remover paste that works for your cat. Compare Katalax, Laxapet, and CVET CatLax based on ingredients and ease of use.
Quick answer
Choose a hairball paste that your cat will actually eat and that matches the severity of the hairball problem. For fussy cats, a flavored option like Katalax works best; for routine prevention, a gentle lubricant like CVET CatLax is a good choice.
Why hairball pastes differ in ingredients
Some pastes rely on a simple lubricant like white soft paraffin to help hair pass through the digestive tract. Others add vitamins, fish oils, or malt extract to support overall digestion and make the paste more appealing. The right choice depends on whether your cat needs a gentle daily helper or a stronger occasional aid.
Palatability matters more than you think
A hairball paste only works if your cat licks it up. Some cats will eat any paste mixed into food, but fussy eaters may refuse certain textures or flavors. Look for pastes with fish oil or malt extract if your cat is picky, and be prepared to apply a small amount to the paw as a backup method.
How to decide: decision rules
- Check your cat's eating habits: If your cat is picky, choose a paste with strong flavor like Katalax (cod liver oil and malt extract). For easy eaters, any paste will work.
- Assess the severity: For mild prevention, a gentle lubricant like CVET CatLax is sufficient. For existing hairballs or constipation, a more comprehensive formula like Laxapet with added vitamins may help. Always consult your vet if symptoms persist beyond three days.
- Consider the application method: Pastes can be given directly from the tube or mixed into food. If your cat refuses food mixing, apply a small amount to the paw so they lick it off. Start with a pea-sized amount to see how your cat reacts.
Product facts
- Katalax 20g: A highly palatable blend of white soft paraffin, cod liver oil, and malt extract that aids the elimination of hairballs. The cod liver oil and malt extract make this paste especially tempting for fussy cats, so you're more likely to get them to take it.
Katalax 20g - Laxapet Dogs & Cats 50g: Laxapet contains petrolatum, lecithin, fish liver oil, and vitamins A, B1, B2, and B6 to support the body's natural expulsion reaction. The added vitamins provide extra nutritional support, which can be helpful for cats that need more than just lubrication.
Laxapet Dogs & Cats 50g - CVET CatLax Hairball Remover 60g: CVET CatLax gently lubricates the digestive tract to prevent hairball build-up. This is a straightforward, no-frills option for routine prevention when your cat doesn't have an active blockage.
Which paste is right for your cat?
Best for
- Fussy cats that need a tasty paste (Katalax)
- Routine prevention with a simple lubricant (CVET CatLax)
- Cats that could use extra vitamins alongside hairball relief (Laxapet)
Not for
- Cats that refuse any paste or gel texture (try a hairball treat or food topper instead)
- Severe blockages that require veterinary intervention
