Animal Essentials Hairball Relief formula employs the healthful powers of marshmallow root, which contains copious amounts of water-soluble mucopolysaccharide compounds (called “mucilage”) that are not only fully digestible but deliver powerful health benefits to your dog or cat. As marshmallow root extract passes through your companion’s digestive tract, its thick, gooey mucilage temporarily coats intestinal membranes with a slippery layer to aid in the quick elimination of ingested hair, while it also serves to feed and maintain healthy populations of resident microflora. Marshmallow root also supports immune system health in the gut, where up to 70% of the body’s immune system resides.