Help with hairball remedy

[frawri]

I went to petsmart last night and they had petromalt along with Laxatone. But they also had this all natural paste that said it had no petroleum in it. Now that does sound like it would be more healthy for the cat. Of course the price was pretty high also. So before I get it I wanted to find out if it truly matters? I don’t know if this is a problem for cats or not. I got in the meantime Laxatone, and they don’t like it any better then they liked the petromalt stuff. But they lick it off, because they have too, or stay dirty the whole day. Till my dogs are able to eat it off that night. But I have been blessed with two boys that at least clean off their feet. LOL Now their backsides are a different story. Oh well can’t have it all. I got the Laxatone because it claims to help out constipated dogs also. And my poor Chihuahuas get that way sometimes. Thought I could use this to help them out too.
I had to laugh when freedom said that her cat would whip the paste off of its paw. I think we all have gone through that scenario. LOL What I do is make certain it is smeared good on their paw, so that their isn’t any chunks left to fly off if they shake it. And believe me they tried to do that at first. But now they just settle down and start licking it off. Now if you tried to offer it to them on your finger they will still put up their noses to it.
I also had some one on another site mention that her cat eats plastic bags and so she has a problem with him getting constipated. My guys also eat anything plastic, like bags or ties. Is this because they are getting bound up with hairballs, and are trying to find something to help them pass it? Like normal roughage would? I have tried to get them grass to help with the process, but they won’t eat that cat grass you can get. Now if I let them into my bedroom they will eat my plants I have in there. I put them in their because they wont leave them alone. Isn’t that strange, things they shouldn’t eat they do, and the things they can eat they won’t. Sounds like a human child. LOL Well hope some one can answer these questions. God bless

[columbine]

Try Cat Lube treats from Veterinarian's Best. They're chicken flavored, don't have petroleum, and most cats seem to like them (although sometimes you have to break them into small pieces that are easier for a cat to pick up). Most pet stores have them, or you can buy them online. They're made with psyllium (the same thing humans take!) And keep them away from plastic bags! Try throwing them a few fresh green beans - they spin entertainingly when attacked on a non-carpeted floor, which makes them seem worth tasting...

[catnapper]

I found good food is the best thing for hairballs. What do you feed your cat? I've found Purina Indoor formula makes more hairballs than any other food - in both my own cats and all the cats at the rescue.