The Best Dry Shampoo For Cats

A dry cat shampoo can be a great way to keep the hair of your cat moist and lustrous. Dry shampoo can have all the benefits of wet shampoo; better yet, it comes without the hassle of dealing with a wet cat. But not every dry cat shampoo will get the kitty seal of approval, which is why we made this list of the best ones you can start using on your feline friend today.

What to Look For

There were a few questions a dry cat shampoo had to answer in order to get two paws up from us: Will it make the coat of your cat look lovely? Is it easy and fast to apply? Is it effective and safe for many different kinds of cats? A few of these shampoos had our kitties fiending for another day at the spa (i.e., the sink or bathtub). Coat Defense Daily Dry Cat Shampoo won our top spot, proving to be a brand as reliable for cats as they are for humans, thanks to its toxic-free and talc-free ingredients. Meanwhile, the dander-reducing shampoo that Tropiclean provided proved to be the best example of foam-based shampoo. Keep reading to see which dry cat shampoo will be the right one for your fuzzball.

Coat Defense Daily Dry Cat Shampoo

Coated in comfort

If you need a dry cat shampoo that works well for irritated fur or skin, look no further.
Runner Up

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This dry cat shampoo is one “coat” you’ll want your cat to wear the whole year-round. Six ounces of this powder works not only as an excellent shampoo but as a great way to soothe irritated skin, prevent yeast infections, and more. It’s also completely non-toxic and composed of only natural ingredients with no synthetic chemicals. This is one dry cat shampoo you’ll want to keep right in the medicine cabinet.

Pros

  • It features a mild scent that covers bad smells without being overpowering.
  • This dry cat shampoo is ideal for cats with bald patches that need some extra protection to keep from getting infected.

Cons

  • It can be a little messy as you’re getting used to applying it.

Tropiclean Dander Reducing Dry Cat Shampoo

Soapy without the soap

This soothing foam is perfect for cleaning and calming down your cat.
Best Foam Formula

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Foam shampoo is a wonderful thing, and this Tropiclean product is one of the best. This soothing shampoo moisturizes skin and reduces dander, thanks to its lack of synthetic ingredients. The quick, simple massage method of rubbing it in also ensures you can groom your cat every day without hassle. This dry cat shampoo keeps your kitty looking good and feeling pampered.

Pros

  • We found that the scent is pleasant and doesn’t agitate allergies.
  • Since it’s foam-based, it doesn’t leave the mess or residue that powder or lotion shampoos do.

Cons

  • The amount of dry cat shampoo per container is fairly small and easy to use up quickly.

Tropiclean OxyMed Hairball Relief Dry Cat Shampoo

Conditioned for greatness

This shampoo and conditioner combo leaves your kitty with a healthy sheen.
Best With Conditioner

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We humans are used to seeing the words “shampoo & conditioner” next to each other, but for dry cat shampoo, conditioner is a rare find. Luckily, this TropiClean shampoo is perfect for keeping any cat coat shiny, lustrous, and free of tangles and dandruff. It also contains no artificial ingredients or scents, making it excellent for both cats and people with allergies.

Pros

  • Its scent comes from blueberry and kiwi extract, making it both fragrant and safe.
  • This dry cat shampoo doesn’t make noise coming out of the bottle, so it’s ideal for skittish cats.

Cons

  • While technically a dry cat shampoo, it may still leave your cat damp.

John Paul Pet Dry Cat Shampoo

Naturally effective

This shampoo takes the concept of natural ingredients to a new level.
Best Oatmeal Formula

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Oatmeal is an excellent resource for taking care of the skin, which also applies to dry cat shampoo. This ingenious foam formula is designed to mix with oil and dirt to make it easier to brush out. It’s also condensed enough to require only a small amount per bath. Plus, The natural oatmeal and aloe ingredients leave a wonderful scent that won’t irritate your senses.

Pros

  • This dry cat shampoo is true to its principles, formulated and manufactured in a cruelty-free and eco-friendly manner.
  • Its natural ingredients leave the coat feeling incredibly soft.

Cons

  • It pumps large portions, which can get messy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I choose a dry cat shampoo over a wet one?

It’s no secret that many cats hate to get wet, so a dry cat shampoo is a great choice for cleaning them up without agitating them. You also won’t need to go through the similarly arduous process of drying your cat after their “bath” with a dry cat shampoo.

What if my cat doesn’t like their dry cat shampoo?

Even for products that are made to put cats at ease, felines can still take some time to get used to a new routine if introduced suddenly. Try plying them with treats if your dry cat shampoo makes them nervous, or rub a small amount on them gently when they’re relaxed, so they know the substance isn’t a threat.

About the Author

Chris is a freelance writer living in Austin with his kitten and elderly cat. Chris adores his cats and understands the joys and struggles of owning more than one feline. With so many options out there, Chris wants to help you find the products to make sure your cat is happy and healthy.

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