Laxatives vs Hairball Remedies: Digestive Care for Cats
By PDSA Pet Store | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: Comparisons
Compare laxatives and hairball remedies for cats. Learn when to use a gentle lubricant like Dechra Cat Malt versus a multi-purpose gel like Laxapet for constipation or fur buildup.
Quick answer
For occasional hairballs, choose a dedicated cat malt paste like Dechra Cat Malt. If your cat also needs help with mild constipation or you want added vitamins, a multi-purpose gel like Laxapet for Cats & Dogs may suit better.
Hairball remedies vs laxatives: what’s the difference?
Hairball remedies are designed to help ingested fur pass through the digestive tract. They typically contain lubricants like malt extract or liquid paraffin. Laxatives for cats, on the other hand, are meant to relieve constipation, which can be caused by fur buildup or other factors. Some products, like Laxapet, serve both purposes while also providing supplemental nutrition.
The main trade-off is focus: a targeted hairball remedy may be more palatable and easier to dose, while a combined laxative can address multiple issues but might not be necessary if your cat only has hairballs.
How to choose between laxatives and hairball remedies
- Dedicated hairball remedy (e.g., Dechra Cat Malt): Best for cats that mainly need help passing fur. The malt and liquid paraffin combination gently lubricates the gut. It's creamy and palatable, so most cats accept it willingly. Use when hairballs are the primary concern and constipation is not an issue.
- Hairball prevention laxative (e.g., CVET Catlax): Formulated to prevent hairball formation by lubricating the digestive tract. Routine use alongside grooming can stop hairballs before they start. Ideal for cats that groom heavily and need ongoing prevention.
- Multi-purpose gel with vitamins (e.g., Laxapet for Cats & Dogs): Works as both a hairball remedy and a laxative for mild constipation. It also contains supplemental vitamins, fish oil, and lecithin. Suitable for cats and dogs. Choose if your cat has occasional constipation and you want added nutritional support.
Product facts at a glance
- Dechra Cat Malt - 50g: Dechra Cat Malt acts as a gentle lubricant to aid hairball transit and can help prevent mild constipation related to fur build-up. This is a straightforward hairball remedy that is palatable and widely accepted, making it easy to give to picky cats.
Dechra Cat Malt - 50g - CVET Catlax Hairball Remover Laxative 60g: CVET Catlax contains ingredients that gently lubricate the digestive tract to prevent hairball build-up. It focuses on prevention through routine use, which can reduce the frequency of hairballs when combined with regular grooming.
CVET Catlax Hairball Remover Laxative 60g
Which one fits your cat?
Best for
- Cats with occasional hairballs and no constipation: Dechra Cat Malt
- Cats that groom excessively and need routine prevention: CVET Catlax
- Cats that also experience mild constipation or could benefit from extra vitamins: Laxapet for Cats & Dogs
Not for
- Cats with chronic or severe constipation (consult a vet first)
- Cats that refuse any paste texture (try a different form like treats or liquid)
