Malt paste for cats

All cats groom themselves. During this natural process, some hair ends up in the gastrointestinal tract. This can sometimes cause obstruction intestines and other serious problems that require veterinary intervention. A special product, Malt-paste, can help prevent such problems in long-haired and short-haired cats. It helps remove hair naturally, facilitating its passage in the stool without causing discomfort to the animal.

Composition and features

It's a paste-like substance that may contain small solid particles. It's packaged in polymer or metal tubes of varying sizes. This packaging makes the medication easy to use. It's manufactured by various companies. Although the intended purpose is the same, the composition may vary slightly. Typically, it includes:

• malt extract obtained from barley grains;
• milk or animal fats;
• fiber;
• vitamins;
• yeast;
• macro- and microelements (ash, potassium, phosphorus, etc.);
• thickeners and other auxiliary additives.

The formula also includes flavorings that give the medication a pleasant taste. This ensures that animals consume it on their own and with pleasure. Only safe emulsifiers, antioxidants, and colorings are used in the production of the paste.

If the tube is unopened, it can be stored at temperatures between 5 and 25˚C. However, after opening, it should be refrigerated. Otherwise, the fats in the tube may spoil, making the medication dangerous for your pet. Furthermore, the contents of the tube become too liquid, making it difficult to use. It's important to store the medication properly. Storage instructions can be found on the packaging or in the instructions for use.

How it works

Gastrointestinal problems due to hair are common in many cats. Cats of all ages constantly groom themselves. The rough surface of their tongues causes hair and fluff to become lodged in the stomach and form clumps. Pets often try to expel these clumps themselves by regurgitating them. A large clump can cause intestinal obstruction, as well as nausea, constipation, and other digestive issues.

Malt paste has the following effect:

• softens lumps and promotes their removal from the body along with feces;
• stimulates intestinal function, thereby improving the passage of hair that enters the body;
• eliminates nausea, vomiting and other unpleasant symptoms.

Since the product contains minerals and vitamins, the drug has a positive effect on the entire body:

• improves the functioning of the liver, kidneys and other organs;
• strengthens the immune system;
• replenishes reserves of essential minerals;
• improves the condition of the skin and coat.

The composition does not contain hazardous components that have toxic, mutagenic or other negative effects.

Please note! The ingredients do not accumulate in the body or cause addiction, so the medication can be used over a long period.

How and when to apply

According to the instructions, Malt-paste is prescribed to cats for digestive problems caused by hairballs. These may be accompanied by the following symptoms:

• nausea;
• vomiting;
• anxiety;
• constipation and others.

The medication can also be used prophylactically. It is especially effective for animals with long hair. It is recommended to begin administering the paste from the first shedding period.

There are two schemes for using Malt-paste:

1. If the drug is given daily, a single dose is 3 cm.
2. If the medicine is used for a week every month, then the single dose is 5 cm.

During shedding, allow your cat or male cat to shed 5 cm daily until shedding stops. During this period, brushing at least once a week is also recommended.

It's best to feed the paste to your pet neat before meals or 1-1.5 hours after. If your pet refuses the medication, it can be added to their food.

Please note: During treatment, ensure the animal has constant access to clean water.

There is no limit to the duration of treatment. The drug can be used continuously.

Limitations and side effects

The instructions for using Malt-paste for cats do not specify any restrictions. The medication can be given to kittens and adult pets, as well as to elderly and sick animals. The medication has no contraindications and is approved for use with cats of all ages and breeds.

The drug does not cause side effects. It does not contain any components that could cause allergic reactions, toxic poisoning, or other adverse reactions. Even with long-term use, provided the recommended doses are followed, no side effects are expected.

Please note: Do not exceed the dosage stated in the instructions for use, as this medication has a laxative effect.

Varieties

The most popular products are:

• Beaphar Malt Paste (Netherlands) is available in several varieties. It comes in a standard version and a two-component version. The latter contains taurine, omega-6 fatty acid, and a probiotic complex that helps normalize intestinal microflora. A 25-gram tube costs 230-250 rubles, while 100 grams of the standard version costs around 600 rubles.

• Malt paste from GimGat (Germany). The manufacturer produces this medication in various packaging and flavors for adult pets and specifically for kittens. Options are also available with minerals, vitamins, and other additives. The price of Malt paste for cats from this German manufacturer ranges from 380 to 700 rubles, depending on the type and size of the package.

• Malt paste from Sanal (Netherlands). This pleasant-tasting paste with vitamin E does a great job, yet is less expensive than brand-name products. A small 20g tube costs about 190 rubles, and a 100g package costs 550 rubles.

• Malt paste from Cliny (Russia). Compared to imported products, this domestic product is less expensive. A 30-gram tube costs 140-150 rubles.

Any type of hair removal paste can be purchased at any veterinary pharmacy or pet store. These medications are also sold online.

Advantages and disadvantages

The use of Malt paste for cats has many advantages:

• Thanks to its pleasant taste, animals eat the medicine on their own.
• Can be added to food.
• Effectively removes hair from the intestines and prevents problems with the digestive system.
• Can be used on pets of any age. No contraindications.
• Does not cause allergic reactions or side effects.
• The dosage is easy to calculate and does not depend on the age of the animal.
• Can be combined with any medications.
• The results of the application are visible after the first dose.

Disadvantages include the need to use the product over a long period of time. The paste must be administered continuously or regularly every month. Another drawback, some cat owners consider, is the need to store the medication in the refrigerator.

Owner reviews

Marta, owner of a British Shorthair cat:

"My Magdalena is a shorthaired cat, and we encountered a problem during shedding. She ate a lot of fur and tried to vomit it up, but she couldn't. We went to the vet. The doctor recommended Malt-paste. We bought a Biofar product. She stopped vomiting in the mornings. She really liked the taste of the paste. As soon as she saw the package, she came running to me."

Natasha, owner of two Persian cats:

"We have two furry wonders living in our house. When we adopted the cats from the breeder, she recommended giving them a special toothpaste to prevent gastrointestinal issues caused by their fur. We initially bought a Beaphar product and were always pleased with the results. One day, it was out of stock at the pet store, but I saw Sanal toothpaste. It was almost 100 rubles cheaper, but just as effective. From now on, it's the only one I'll buy."

Veterinarian Reviews

Lyudmila, a veterinarian with 8 years of experience:

"If you look at it, it's not really a medication, but rather a supplemental care product for cats. Most products of this type on the market are harmless, but their use doesn't guarantee protection against intestinal obstruction if the animal licks a lot of hair. I would recommend cat owners focus more on brushing and wiping their pets than on stuffing them with various products."

Anton, a veterinarian with 6 years of experience:

"This is a real lifesaver for cat owners, especially those with long hair. If hairballs in the stomach cause nausea, vomiting, or constipation, this special product is the best solution. The advantage of these food supplements is that they contain additional vitamins and minerals. A cheap alternative is to use pure Vaseline in small amounts. This folk remedy is just as effective as store-bought products."

Malta paste for cats: video

Read also:

• Cat food and pastes for hair removal
• Why do cats wash themselves so often?
• Furminator for cats: what it is, how to choose and use it