This is frequently the subject of much confusion.  Hairballs (in ferrets or
cats) cannot be passed by use of any oil that is absorbed by the intestinal
tract.  That includes ferretone, corn oil, olive oil, etc.  Although they
may be good for the ferret, they do nothing for hairballs.
 
In order to help pass hairballs, you must use a NON-absorbed type of
"grease" like laxatone or other remedy designed for that.  All those
products are basically vaseline, and since they are not absorbed in the
intestinal tract, they pull the hair out as they pass.
 
Please don't use mineral oil. It will technically do the job, but it's way
too easy for an animal to aspirate it if it's being squirted in the mouth.
Mineral oil in the lungs stays forever, and does not do good things.
 
Dr. K.
[Posted in FML issue 2448]