The Best Cat Shampoos
Cats notoriously despise water. Thankfully, they bathe themselves on a regular basis, so you usually don't have to. But of course, there are some exceptions and situations where you may need to wash your feline friend. Whether you're bringing in a new kitten that needs to be rid of fleas, own a cat that has developed dandruff or skin irritation, or your fluff ball simply got out and came home covered in dirt, there's a shampoo for you.
What to Look For
In order to find the best cat shampoo, we asked ourselves a few questions first: Does this shampoo help control ticks or fleas? What is the scent of this shampoo? Is it a dry or wet shampoo? Our top pick was the Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo. It helps to control pests like ticks and fleas, features a gentle fresh scent, and is a wet shampoo, so it will also give a deeper clean as opposed to dry shampoo. But if you’re looking for something that offers a standard cleanse without the mess of water, we suggest the Burt’s Bees Cat Waterless Shampoo. This shampoo nourishes as it cleanses and is free of fragrance. Keep reading for more in-depth reviews of our favorite shampoos for your cat.
Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo
Feelin' fresh
If your cat needs a thorough wash, we recommend this shampoo by Adams. The rich and creamy formula is suitable for sensitive skin and creates a soothing effect thanks to aloe, lanolin, and oatmeal. Not only will this shampoo leave your kitty feeling clean and soft, but it’s also designed to help rid them of any fleas and ticks. This cat shampoo contains an insect growth regulator that kills current fleas and controls any re-infestations for up to 28 days. Plus, if you happen to own a dog as well, you can use this shampoo on them, too. So if your pets are struggling with pests or just need a good deep cleanse, look no further than Adams Plus Fleak & Tick Shampoo.
Pros:
- The shampoo is much thicker than you’d expect, so although the bottle size is modest, a little goes a long way.
- We love that you can physically feel a slight residue left behind after rinsing, which are the premium soothing ingredients coating and protecting your pet’s fur.
Cons:
- This formula is medicated and is quite strong, so this would not be best for those who are looking for shampoo to use regularly.
Burt’s Bees Cat Waterless Shampoo Spray – 2 Pack
Dry clean only
Dry shampoo may be the way to go for most cat owners. This option by Burt’s Bees both cleanses and nourishes without the hassle of dragging your kitty to the tub. It’s made with nature’s finest ingredients like honey and apple and is also pH-balanced specifically for kittens and cats. All you’ll have to do is spray it on your cat or the brush, start brushing, and soon enough, you’ll notice your kitty’s fur looking much cleaner. We love that this mild shampoo is free of sulfates, colorants, and harsh chemicals, so you can feel confident using this on your favorite feline. At an excellent value for the price, we would highly recommend this choice for those who are looking for a basic clean without the fuss of a full bath.
Pros:
- This dry shampoo not only makes bath time easier but it makes it faster. If you don’t have time to brush this product through your cat, simply wiping them down with a warm damp towel will also suffice.
- This spray option is very versatile. If your cat doesn’t like the shampoo being sprayed directly on them, you can spray it separately on a brush, towel, or brush glove first.
Cons:
- This shampoo is fragrance-free. While it may deodorize your cat, there won’t be any additional scent that some may prefer.
Coat Defense Daily Preventative Powder
Powder and pamper
Just like people, some cats have sensitive and itchy skin. In these cases, it’s best to use a shampoo that both protects and nourishes your kitty. This natural powder can be used in between bathtimes as it helps soothe irritated skin. And since it eliminates excess moisture, this powder will protect your cat from the bacteria and fungus that cause infections. Plus, this 100% natural powder is talc-free and devoid of any synthetic ingredients. What’s not to love?
Pros:
- If your cat deals with chronic itching, this powder works surprisingly fast.
- Is your cat getting stinky? We’re pleased to note that this powder is also an excellent deodorizer.
Cons:
- While this powder is quite effective, it’s also expensive, especially for the size.
TropiClean Shampoo
Kitty conditioner
With a sweet tropical scent, this shampoo conditions as it cleanses. This 2-in-1 cat shampoo is formulated to relax tangled pet hair to make brushing and combing a breeze. It thoroughly cleanses your kitty’s skin and coat while also moisturizing and conditioning it, leaving your fluffy friend with soft and healthy fur. Made with naturally derived ingredients, this shampoo is free of soaps, parabens, and dyes, so you won’t have to think twice when bath time comes. The shampoo itself is thick and gel-like, which means just a little will go a long way. So if you’re looking for both a shampoo and conditioner with a lovely scent that’s made naturally, this is it.
Pros:
- While this shampoo has long-lasting papaya and coconut fragrance, it isn’t overwhelming and still leaves your cat smelling fresh and ready for some cuddling.
- We appreciate the slight curvature in the bottle, which makes it much easier to hold, especially when slippery with shampoo.
Cons:
- This shampoo will give a deep clean, but it may not be best for de-shedding purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I shampoo my cat?
If you’re just giving your cat a regular bath, we suggest that you bathe them around once a month. But if your cat is dealing with skin issues and you are treating them with a special shampoo, then once a week is okay until the irritation subsides. Most shampoos have use instructions printed on the bottle.
What’s the easiest way to wash my cat?
Cats are usually not fans of water. To make the bathing process easier, we suggest you fill a tub or sink with a few inches of warm water first. Then, you can either slowly pour water on them with a measuring cup or simply use a washcloth to dampen the fur. Then, lather them with the shampoo, and rinse thoroughly.
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Since 2008, CatTime has provided millions of cat owners with all the information they need to keep their pets happy and healthy. Our experts know exactly what it takes to raise our furry friends and our goal is to help all owners, new or experienced, care for their cats with all the right food, toys, equipment, and accessories.