The 10 Best Cat Shampoos to Buy in 2024
If your cat is dirty or has a skin condition, you’re probably far from happy right now. Not only do you have to find the best cat shampoo, but you have to keep your cat from sprinting away from the bath the first time they see it. Unfortunately, cats just don’t like baths and think they do a good enough job on their own.
While cats do a great job on their own, they need help with skin conditions like itchy skin, fleas, ringworm, dandruff, and shedding. You might be tempted to take your cat to the vet, but the right cat shampoo can make a huge difference. If you have the grit to bathe your cat, read on. We’re going to take you through the ten best cat shampoos you can find.
- Features to Consider When Shopping for Cat Shampoos
- Top 10 Best Cat Shampoos 2024
- 1. Best Cat Shampoo Overall: Pro Pet Works Organic Oatmeal Shampoo
- 2. Best Cat Shampoo for Shed Control: TropiClean Shed Control Pet Shampoo
- 3. Best Anti-Itch Cat Shampoo: Bodhi Dog Anti Itch Oatmeal Spray
- 4. Best Flea and Tick Cat Shampoo: Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo
- 5. Best Premium Cat Shampoo: BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Medicated Shampoo
- 6. Best Budget Cat Shampoo: Hartz Groomer's Best Cat Shampoo
- 7. Best Waterless Shampoo: Vet's Best Waterless Cat Bath
- 8. Best Cat Spray: Burt's Bees Natural Dander Reducing Spray
- 9. Best Concentrated Cat Shampoo: John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo
- 10. Best Cat Shampoo for Kittens: Burt's Bees Tearless Kitten Shampoo
- Everything You Need to Know About Cat Shampoos
- FAQ
- The Right Cat Shampoo Is Out There
Features to Consider When Shopping for Cat Shampoos
Type
First and foremost, you need to consider the type of shampoo you want. Cats are fussy animals, so use your discretion when choosing shampoos that require rinses. There are three types of cat shampoos that you’ll come across: rinse, waterless, and spray shampoos. While each type of shampoo will keep your furry little friend clean, they do so differently.
Rinse Shampoo
Rinse shampoos are challenging to work with, especially if your cat isn’t used to taking a bath. If you’ve watched your cat interact with water, you’ll notice that they barely even enjoy drinking it. So, while rinse shampoo provides a well-rounded clean to your cat’s coat, it can be a hassle to work with at first. Keep in mind, rinse shampoos can provide many benefits that other shampoos can’t, so sometimes the trouble is worth it.
Waterless
Waterless shampoos are your best friend for cat baths. We can’t stress this enough: cats hate water. A waterless shampoo is easy to apply and cleans your cat’s coat without needing a rinse. Waterless shampoos can be potent, but the clean they offer is not as good as foaming shampoos. When choosing between the two, you need to consider your choices carefully.
Spray
The spray-on shampoo comes in many different shapes and forms. There are sprays for fleas, dandruff, shedding, and bathing. Generally speaking, the spray is not shampoo in the traditional sense, but some sprays perform a similar role.
The only downside to spray shampoo is that your cat may run in the opposite direction once you spray them. That said, we’re sure you’ve noticed that cats like to handle bathing on their own, so a spray can be a helpful tool that doesn’t disturb their routine.
For even more information on cat shampoo types, check out our full guide below.
Purpose
Once you figure out the type of cat shampoo you want to work with, you’ll want to examine each shampoo’s purpose. Cat shampoo performs different tasks like warding off fleas, reducing dandruff, treating skin irritation, and providing shine to a coat of fur. With all of these potential benefits, you need to focus on what your cat needs.
Amount
When you’re shopping for anything, you want to know how much you’re getting. Cat shampoo is sold in different sizes, but between eight and twelve fluid ounces are standard. When you consider the price of cat shampoos, always be sure to check the amount you get too.
Scent
Not every cat shampoo comes with a scent, but some products smell better than others. Scent comes down to personal preference, and an unscented product can perform just as well as scented products. The only advantage that scented shampoos have is their ability to let you know your cat is clean and fresh.
Price
Cat shampoo can be affordable, but price-wise, there can be extremes on both sides. The good news is that we did the research and grouped each product into three price categories for you. These categories are:
$: Around $5
$$: Around $10
$$$: Around $15
Top 10 Best Cat Shampoos 2024
1. Best Cat Shampoo Overall: Pro Pet Works Organic Oatmeal Shampoo
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Shampoo is one of the most excellent shampoo products you can find. It works well for cats and dogs, is also a conditioner, and it's made with all-natural and organic ingredients.
Quick Facts
- Price: $$$
- Type: Rinse Shampoo
- Purpose: Skin and Fur Care
- Scent: No Scent
- Amount: 17oz
Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Shampoo is one of the safest shampoos you can find for your pet. The shampoo is made with all-natural ingredients and gets most of its potency from aloe vera and almond oil. These ingredients work together to rejuvenate your cat’s skin and keep their fur sleek and soft. While this shampoo provides a proper clean, you don’t need to worry about any negative reactions or adverse effects.
The shampoo is made without potentially harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, alcohol, soap, detergent, and other chemicals. This shampoo is also cruelty-free and hypoallergenic; when you combine all of these features, the result is a shampoo that consistently performs well. Even if you want to bathe your cat frequently, you can use this shampoo as much as you want with no limits.
What Sets It Apart
What sets this shampoo apart from the competition is the intense focus on natural and organic ingredients. The shampoo is designed to be compatible with most pets, and it’s safe for cats or dogs that suffer from skin allergies, food allergies, fleas, ticks, and other factors. In fact, this shampoo can be used alongside flea and tick treatments without compromising them. We also like that the product includes essential vitamins and minerals to promote healthy skin.
While the shampoo works well enough on its own, it’s also a conditioner. Getting conditioner to work for a cat’s fur is difficult, but Pro Pet Works nails it, and can help your cat’s coat shine like you’ve never seen before. Based on the formula, the morals of the company, and the shampoo’s versatility, it’s tough to find better shampoo.
Things to Consider
While Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Shampoo is one of the best cat shampoos you can use, it has its limits. For example, it fails to provide relief for dandruff and other ailments. No shampoo can do everything at once, but it’s also disappointing to see that this is a rinse-based shampoo, which makes it challenging to use on cats.
To get the benefits, it’s going to take a lot of patience. If you like the way this product works, but prefer a waterless approach, the Bodhi Dog Anti Itch Oatmeal Spray is a great option.
Who It’s For
Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Shampoo is for cat owners looking to give their cat a bath. It’s hard to go wrong with this shampoo, and it’s one of the best cat shampoos that you can consistently use. If you notice that your cat has a few skin issues, you can’t go wrong with this shampoo.
You’ll also like this product if you’re an environmental enthusiast or looking to reduce your carbon footprint. As a testament to its organic and all-natural ingredients, this shampoo is 100% biodegradable and eco-friendly. Furthermore, the product is made and developed in the United States, which means the company adheres to FDA regulations.
Pros
- Treats mild skin conditions for cats
- Comes with a generous amount of shampoo
- Organic, natural formula
- Made in the USA
- Affordable
Cons
- Rinse-based shampoo can be difficult to apply on cats
2. Best Cat Shampoo for Shed Control: TropiClean Shed Control Pet Shampoo
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: TropiClean Shampoos for Pets is a line of pet shampoos that offers a diverse range of options. While we're featuring the shed control shampoo, we love how they have shampoo for deep cleaning, coat shine, flea resistance, dandruff control, and even hypoallergenic shampoo.
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Type: Rinse Shampoo
- Purpose: Shed Control
- Scent: Lime and Coconut
- Amount: 20oz
TropiClean Shampoos for Pets is a well-rounded line of shampoos that gives you everything you need to keep your cat clean and healthy. TropiClean uses all-natural active ingredients, including vitamin E, cocoa butter, and lime, that perform better than most chemical-based shampoos. TropiClean also leaves harmful chemicals out of their formula, making their shed control free of parabens, phthalates, and artificial dyes.
Everyone loves a fresh-smelling cat, and TropiClean Shampoos for Pets delivers a coconut and lime scent that both cats and pet owners love. For shed control, the shampoo works by moisturizing and exfoliating your cat’s skin. This process washes off any loose fur and cleanses their skin to prevent their coat from shedding.
What Sets It Apart
TropiClean Shampoos for Pets is unique because the company offers dozens of combinations for you to use. While their shed control shampoo works well, you can change the scent and purpose of the shampoo without altering the composition of the soap-free formula. This shampoo is also affordable for most budgets while maintaining quality on par with high-end cat shampoos.
Things to Consider
TropiClean Shampoos for Pets are great for bathing your cat, but there is one drawback to this solution. Any shampoo that requires a deep rinse is challenging to work with because cats dislike water, especially sitting still in it for a few minutes. Not only does this make bathing difficult, but it can provoke your cat to scratch you too. So, if you’re looking for a shampoo that offers shed control, without using water, the Vet’s Best Waterless Cat Bath is a great alternative.
Who It’s For
TropiClean Shampoos for Pets work well for most pet owners, regardless of your cat’s needs. While the shampoo works well for cats, we recommend giving your cat time to adjust. If you’re a pet owner that has the patience to work with your cat, this shampoo is worth the effort. Overall, if your cat sheds often, this product is a great choice.
Pros
- Natural formula made with lime, cocoa, and vitamins
- No dyes, soap, parabens, or phthalates
- Provides a deep cleanse for your cat's skin and fur that reduces shedding
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Rinsing a cat can be a hassle, and takes time for them to adjust
3. Best Anti-Itch Cat Shampoo: Bodhi Dog Anti Itch Oatmeal Spray
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: Despite having the word dog in the name, we discovered that this spray is excellent for cats. The spray is hypoallergenic and offers a safe alternative to shampoos that need to be rinsed.
Quick Facts
- Price: $$$
- Type: Spray
- Purpose: Skin Care
- Scent: Light Apple
- Amount: 8oz
The Bodhi Dog Anti Itch Oatmeal Spray is a unique product that offers a plant-based alternative to shampoo. While the spray is not a shampoo, it provides similar skin relief and keeps cats dry throughout the process. The formula is oat-based, which is popular in cat shampoos because it’s drier than traditional foaming shampoos. As for ingredients, Bodhi uses a combination of baking soda, oat proteins, oatmeal, wheat germ, and vitamin A, B, C, and D.
The spray works as an itch relief spray that provides a fresh smelling scent. While it’s not soap, the spray can keep your cat clean in between baths. Plus, because cats bathe themselves, this spray is an excellent alternative to shampoo. In fact, it even promotes healthy skin, cleanses fur, makes it more comfortable to brush, and keeps your cat smelling fresh. Bodhi Dog Anti Itch Oatmeal Spray is also alcohol-free, and all-natural.
What Sets It Apart
The Bodhi Dog Anti Itch Oatmeal Spray is unique because it offers an alternative to shampoo that keeps the cat’s fur and skin clean. While Bodhi Dog claims to be a great company, they can prove it. In 2020, the company received the Family Choice Awards. The award recognizes companies that produce high-quality and safe products for pets, making Bodhi Dog a reputable and trustworthy company.
Things to Consider
While the Bodhi Dog Anti Itch Oatmeal Spray does everything as advertised, it doesn’t provide the same benefits as waterless and rinse shampoos. This doesn’t make it a bad product, but if you’re looking for a deep clean, you’ll have to look elsewhere. But, if you like the idea of a waterless cleanse, the Vet’s Best Waterless Cat Bath is a great alternative you can experiment with.
Who It’s For
Bodhi Dog Anti Itch Oatmeal Spray is for cat owners that have no interest in bathing their cat. Let’s face it; cats spend a lot of time washing themselves, so think of this product as a little something you can spray to help. This spray also works well for cat owners whose cats are dealing with itchy or irritated skin.
Pros
- No-rinse or water required
- Fresh smelling scent that lasts long after you spray it
- Keeps your cat's skin from becoming itchy and irritated
- Keeps fur smooth
- Non-toxic
Cons
- Doesn't provide a deep clean like traditional shampoos and waterless shampoos provide
4. Best Flea and Tick Cat Shampoo: Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo is excellent for warding off and healing damage caused by fleas and ticks. Our favorite feature is the shampoo's ability to keep flea eggs from hatching for up to four weeks.
Quick Facts
- Price: $$
- Type: Rinse Shampoo
- Purpose: Flea and Tick Prevention
- Scent: Fresh
- Amount: 12oz
The Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo is perfect for flea and tick prevention. Many pet owners believe that once fleas and ticks make themselves at home in your pet’s fur, it’s too late to do anything about it. This shampoo proves that theory wrong by preventing ticks and fleas for up to twenty-eight days, and even if your pet has them already, the solution will kill them.
You would think that this shampoo would be brutal on your cat’s skin, but that’s not the case. The shampoo is made with natural ingredients like aloe, lanolin, oatmeal, and coconut extract that soothes your cat’s skin. This shampoo is also made without harmful chemicals like phthalates, parabens, artificial dyes, or other toxic substances.
What Sets It Apart
Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo is unique because it serves two purposes at once. Most flea and tick shampoos are devastating for your pet’s skin, but Adam’s make sure their shampoo cleans and caters to your cat’s skin. In some cases, Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo performs better than shampoos that have the sole focus of cleaning and moisturizing skin. For the value, this shampoo is well-rounded, versatile, and nearly perfect.
Things to Consider
Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo does its job well and can free your pet of fleas and ticks. The only drawback to this product, for cat owners, is that cats dislike being rinsed off. If your cat has fleas or ticks, this is a necessary product, but if they don’t, you can choose any non-rinse shampoo on the list.
Who It’s For
Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo is designed for pet owners that have outdoor pets. We know that a lot of pet owners keep their cats indoors, but for those of you who own an outdoor cat, this shampoo is worth considering. Not only for its flea and tick killing properties, but also its ability to prevent fleas and ticks for up to twenty-eight days.
Pros
- Kills fleas and ticks
- Prevents fleas and ticks for twenty-eight days
- Suitable for cats with sensitive skin
- Kills flea eggs
Cons
- Better suited for outdoor cats
- Only useful for flea and tick prevention
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo keeps your pet clean, but at the same time, it functions as a medication. While it’s high-priced. we love how this shampoo can save you from a costlier trip to the vet.
Quick Facts
- Price: $$$
- Type: Rinse Shampoo
- Purpose: Antifungal and Antibacterial
- Scent: No Scent
- Amount: 8oz
BEXLEY LABS created an excellent shampoo with their chlorhexidine shampoo. The shampoo is chemical-based, but only uses safe chemicals like chlorhexidine gluconate and ketoconazole. These chemicals function as active ingredients that target and eliminate skin problems that your cat might suffer from. The BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo can treat bacterial infections, yeast infections, ringworm, fungus, and pyoderma.
While the BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo acts as an effective medication, it also provides a soothing and gentle wash for your pet. The shampoo works by eliminating musty odors caused by skin irritations, or bacteria, yeast, and fungus.
What Sets It Apart
BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo is in a league of its own when comparing it to other antibacterial and antifungal shampoos. This shampoo provides a treatment option that many veterinarians support, and when applied two-three times a week, it gets results. Not only does it work well as a medication, but it’s highly regulated and safe. The shampoo is manufactured in an FDA approved laboratory within the United States.
Things to Consider
While the BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo can be used as an effective skin treatment, it’s not for everyone. If your pet isn’t suffering from any skin problems, you’ll find more value in a shampoo that focuses on a deep clean. So, if your cat doesn’t have any skin issues, we recommend a product like TropiClean Shampoos for Pets.
Who It’s For
The BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo is for cat owners dealing with skin infections. While every cat can benefit from this shampoo, it’s designed to be used as a medication. If you’re looking to save money on veterinarian trips, this shampoo is perfect for you.
Pros
- Effectively treats bacteria, yeast, fungus, ringworm, and other skin problems
- Leaves your cat smelling fresh
- FDA approved and safe
- Made in the United States
Cons
- Rinsing your cat is not easy to do
- Healthy cats see minimal benefits from this shampoo
- Premium price
6. Best Budget Cat Shampoo: Hartz Groomer's Best Cat Shampoo
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: Hartz Groomer’s Hairball Control Shampoo offers an affordable approach to cat bathing. With one of the lowest prices around and a generous amount of shampoo in the bottle, it's worth considering.
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Type: Rinse Shampoo
- Purpose: Hairball Control
- Scent: Unscented
- Amount: 15oz
Hartz Groomer’s Hairball Control Shampoo is designed to keep hairballs in check by reducing the amount of loose hair that your cat has. The solution works by soothing your cat’s skin and providing moisture to dry areas. The result is rejuvenated skin that’s less prone to shedding, accumulating dandruff, and becoming irritated.
Hartz Groomer’s Hairball Control Shampoo is made with plant-based ingredients that reduce the chances of skin allergies and irritation, making it a safe shampoo to use on cats of all hair lengths. This shampoo also includes a conditioner to keep your cat’s coat soft and sleek. Plus, it even smells fresh.
What Sets It Apart
The Hartz Groomer’s Hairball Control Shampoo is unique because of what it offers for the price. Hartz Groomer’s is a reputable company that’s been perfecting cat and dog products for decades, which is why it’s impressive that this product is so affordable. Not only do you get a shampoo for about the price of a large coffee, but you get a generous fifteen ounces of it.
Things to Consider
Hartz Groomer’s Hairball Control Shampoo is a great shampoo that works as advertised, but it’s not the best. Sure, it cleans your cat and reduces the chances of a hairball, but it doesn’t provide that deep cleanse that top-tier shampoos provide. If you like the price, but prefer a higher quality shampoo, the TropiClean Shampoos for Pets are a great alternative.
Who It’s For
Hartz Groomer’s Hairball Control Shampoo is for anyone looking to give their cat a bath on a budget. If you’re not sure whether or not you want to bathe your cat regularly, this is a great product to experiment with because of the price. Plus, you get a generous amount of shampoo in case you make any mistakes.
Pros
- Breaks down knots to prevent hairballs
- Soothes a cat's coat and skin
- Fresh scent
- Generous amount of shampoo for the bargain price
Cons
- Not as effective as top-tier shampoos
7. Best Waterless Shampoo: Vet's Best Waterless Cat Bath
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: Vet's Best Waterless Cat Bath is one of the best plant-based waterless shampoos you can find. The benefits from ingredients like aloe vera and neem oil are second to none.
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Type: Waterless Shampoo
- Purpose: Shampoo
- Scent: Aloe Vera
- Amount: 8oz
Vet’s Best Waterless Cat Bath is a plant-based shampoo that keeps your cat’s skin soft and their coat sleek. While cats bathe themselves often, sometimes, a refreshing waterless shampoo can keep them smelling and feeling fresh. The shampoo is made with a combination of botanical ingredients designed specifically for cats.
Aloe vera is used to keep your cat’s skin soft, neem oil adds life to your cat’s fur, oatmeal fortifies the skin, and the rest of the shampoo is made with essential vitamins that provide your cat with nutrients. If you can think of a plant that’s great for skin, there is a good chance that you can find it in the Vet’s Best Waterless Cat Bath.
What Sets It Apart
Vet’s Best Waterless Cat Bath is unique because it provides a deep clean without requiring water. There are plenty of waterless shampoos out there, but they never seem to come close to the wash you get with rinse shampoo. This shampoo is just as good, if not better than, some of the best rinse shampoos around. Plus, since it doesn’t require water, it’s easier to give your cat a bath.
Things to Consider
Vet’s Best Waterless Cat Bath is a well-rounded shampoo, but no product is perfect. While the shampoo works well, it doesn’t provide any health benefits. For example, the BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo can clean your cat’s skin while treating medical conditions.
Who It’s For
Vet’s Best Waterless Cat Bath is for cat owners that don’t want to deal with the hassle of rinsing a cat off. Rinsing a cat off can be a ightmare, which is why the waterless design is excellent. If you want to keep your cat clean, without getting on their bad side, this shampoo is ideal.
Pros
- All-natural plant-based ingredients
- Provides a deep clean and a fresh aloe vera scent
- Cleans your cat's skin and fur
Cons
- No additional health benefits
8. Best Cat Spray: Burt's Bees Natural Dander Reducing Spray
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: Burt's Bees Natural Dander Reducing Spray is an excellent alternative to cat shampoo that relies on natural herbs and oils. In fact, in many cases, this product is a bath in a bottle.
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Type: Spray
- Purpose: Dander Control
- Scent: Aloe Vera
- Amount: 10oz
Burt’s Bees Natural Dander Reducing Spray is a spray that functions like many shampoos you’ll find. This spray is a dry spray designed to keep your cat calm while you apply it. The spray is made with all-natural ingredients, which include aloe vera, colloidal oat flower, honey, leaf powder, and more. All of Burt’s Bee’s ingredients are non-toxic, and they leave out potential allergens like Brazilian nuts.
Ingredients aside, the spray does what it’s advertised to do. When applying the spray, gently spray a few areas of your furry little friend and watch the dandruff begin to vanish. For the best results, it will take a few sessions. In many cases, especially when dealing with cats, a spray is a reliable way to keep your cat clean without disturbing them.
What Sets It Apart
Burt’s Bees Natural Dander Reducing Spray is special for a few reasons, but our favorite feature is its pH balance. pH balance is critical, especially when working with younger cats because pH levels that are too low or high can cause damage to your cat’s skin. When using a spray, it’s great to know that your cat gets all of the benefits of a fresh dander-free wash without needing to worry about dry or flaky skin.
Things to Consider
Burt’s Bees Natural Dander Reducing Spray is effective, but it lacks the cleaning ability that rinse and waterless shampoos provide. This is common when using a spray, meaning it’s about your preferences. If you like the idea of a pH balanced product, you can try a gentle shampoo like the Burt’s Bees Tearless Kitten Shampoo.
Who It’s For
If you’re on the fence about bathing your cat, you might want to start with a product like Burt’s Bees Natural Dander Reducing Spray. It takes the stress off of bathing for both you and your cat, and won’t interfere with your cat’s regular bathing routine. The spray is also great for cat owners that are on the fence because the price is low.
Pros
- Waterless spray that won't disturb your cat
- Ph balanced
- Fresh aloe vera scent
- Affordable
- Controls dander
Cons
- Doesn't provide as deep of a clean as waterless shampoos and rinse shampoos
9. Best Concentrated Cat Shampoo: John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo is a simple cat and dog shampoo that does precisely what it's supposed to do. We like how this product focuses on your cat's skin and fur, without pretending to be something more.
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Type: Rinse Shampoo
- Purpose: Moisturizer
- Sent: Almond Oil
- Amount: 16oz
John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo is a rinse shampoo that moisturizes, cleans, and revives your cat’s skin and fur. The shampoo is simple to work with and doesn’t require ten minute rinses; the bathing process is short and sweet with this shampoo. For ingredients, John Paul Pet went the all-natural route. The elements include almond oil, oat proteins, aloe, and other botanical ingredients. Furthermore, the shampoo is pH balanced, making it safe for younger pets or pets with sensitive skin.
John Paul Pet is also proud to be cruelty-free, and their pet shampoo is tested on humans instead of other animals. For safety, knowing that you can use the product for yourself adds peace of mind when you use it on your pet. This shampoo is also highly concentrated and comes with a refreshing scent derived from natural almond oil. There are no artificial dyes, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, alcohol, or any other potentially harmful chemicals.
What Sets It Apart
John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo is one of the few shampoos that’s highly concentrated. This is valuable because it lasts longer than other brands, but doesn’t use harmful additives to do so. Plus, you get more fluid ounces in the bottle right from the start.
Things to Consider
John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo is a great shampoo that moisturizes your pet’s skin, but it doesn’t offer anything else. If you plan on bathing your cat regularly, this can be helpful, but you’ll quickly notice that cats don’t like water to begin with. The value of this product depends on your needs, and you can accomplish these same benefits with a spray like Burt’s Bees Natural Dander Reducing Spray.
Who It’s For
John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo is for cat owners looking for a simple product. John Paul Pet didn’t go the extra mile with this shampoo, but it will keep your cat clean and fresh for a great price. If you have the patience to bathe your cat and give it a deep clean, this shampoo is the right choice.
Pros
- pH balanced
- Safe for use on sensitive skin
- Cruelty-free and tested on humans
- Almond oil scent
- Moisturizes and revives skin and fur
Cons
- Rinsing can be difficult at first
- No additional health benefits aside from cleaning and moisturizing
10. Best Cat Shampoo for Kittens: Burt's Bees Tearless Kitten Shampoo
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: We love how Burt's Bees took the time to make a high-quality shampoo for kittens. The buttermilk formula is tear-free and safe for kittens younger than twelve months.
Quick Facts
- Price: $
- Type: Rinse Shampoo
- Purpose: Kitten Shampoo
- Scent: Buttermilk
- Amount: 8oz
Burt’s Bees Tearless Kitten Shampoo is a plant-based shampoo that’s suitable for kittens. Most cat shampoos that you’ll find are only suitable for cats over twelve months, and somewhere along the way, kittens were forgotten. With this shampoo, you can keep your kitten fresh and clean without needing to worry. To accomplish this, the shampoo is tear-free and made with natural ingredients like buttermilk.
Burt’s Bees Tearless Kitten Shampoo is also made without harmful chemicals. Every ingredient is nature-based, leaving out artificial dyes, parabens, phthalates, alcohol, and other chemicals. The product you get is a safe shampoo that soothes your kitten’s skin and keeps their fur soft.
What Sets It Apart
Burt’s Bees has been making high-quality natural products for decades, and the company has built up a strong reputation. Burt’s Bees is also adamant about not testing on animals, making all of their products cruelty-free. Overall, we love how this shampoo is one of the few options you can find for your kitten. Knowing that the brand produces products for babies, with similar ingredients, you can trust that it’s safe for your kitten.
Things to Consider
Burt’s Bees Tearless Kitten Shampoo is great for kittens, but once your cat reaches twelve months, it loses value. Unfortunately, the solution is not potent enough to bathe a full-grown cat, meaning you’ll need to upgrade once they get older. If you like Burt’s Bees, but have an older cat, consider Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Shampoo instead.
Who It’s For
Burt’s Bees Tearless Kitten Shampoo is for pet owners with kittens. If you have a cat that’s less than twelve months old, this shampoo is a great choice. Also, while this is a rinse shampoo, it’s beneficial to begin bathing your cat while their young; this way, they’re used to being wet when they get older. So, if you plan on washing your cat frequently, this is a great shampoo to get you started.
Pros
- Tear-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Safe for kittens under twelve months
- Plant-based ingredients
Cons
- Less useful for older cats
Everything You Need to Know About Cat Shampoos
Once you have the best products in front of you, it’s easy to make a choice. However, cat shampoo has specific uses, so we want to make sure you choose the right one. So, we’re going to take you through everything you need to know about cat shampoo and help narrow down your options.
Choosing the Right Type of Shampoo
Before we dive into specific cat shampoos, the first thing we need to cover is selecting the right type of shampoo. Each type of shampoo has its particular uses, sure, but deciding which shampoo you’re willing to work with is a crucial part of the shopping experience.
Rinse Shampoo
Rinse shampoos are the most medically enabled shampoos, meaning they can provide the broadest range of benefits. The only downside to rinse shampoo is that they can be challenging to work with. You know how cats hate water? Well, that’s not going to change overnight magically. So, if you’re considering a rinse shampoo, you’re going to need patience and practice before it gets easy. Also, we recommend starting with kittens because they’re more impressionable.
If you’re looking to give rinse shampoo a try, we recommend starting with Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Shampoo. While this shampoo doesn’t provide any medical benefits, it’s an excellent rinse shampoo to get your pet started with.
Waterless Shampoo
Waterless shampoo is the most straightforward shampoo to work with because, well, it doesn’t need to be rinsed out. Your cat will welcome this shampoo with purrs, and you won’t get on their bad side. Plus, waterless shampoos penetrate hair and skin deep enough to provide a well-rounded clean. They’re not as strong as rinse shampoos, but they come in a close second.
If you like the sound of a waterless shampoo, there are fewer options than you think. The good news is that the Vet’s Best Waterless Cat Bath is a great waterless shampoo that gives rinse shampoos a run for their money. If you want to keep your cat clean, without doing too much work, waterless shampoos are a solid choice.
Spray
Spray shampoos are the weakest shampoos you’ll come across, meaning they don’t provide many cleaning benefits. If your cat prefers to clean themselves, which many of them do, a cat spray is a great way to support their efforts. Sprays can also keep your cat smelling fresh and clean, and some sprays can reduce skin irritation too.
If bathing your cat sounds like a hassle, it’s time to take a look at spray-on alternatives. The best spray you can find is the Bodhi Dog Anti Itch Oatmeal Spray because it can reduce itchy skin.
Helping Out With Itchy Skin
Cats love to scratch themselves, and they do so frequently. While this behavior is normal, excessive itching can mean there is a problem. For example, if you notice that your cat is focused on one spot, it can be an early sign of irritated skin. Itchy skin in cats also has some visual symptoms you can look out for, including a diminished shine to their coat, and white flakes.
So, what causes itchy skin? Itchy and dry skin are usually caused by your cat’s diet, weight, and age. If your cat is eating a food that’s not rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, it can lead to areas of dry and flakey skin. Overweight and older cats will generally get itchy skin as a result of poor hygiene. While dietary changes can take a long time to improve if you want to make sure your cat is comfortable, a cat spray is a great choice.
The best spray for dealing with dry skin is the Bodhi Dog Anti Itch Oatmeal Spray. This spray is easy to apply, and you can target specific areas of patchy and dry skin. Plus, since it’s a spray, you don’t have to worry about any retaliation from your cat.
Getting Rid of Pesky Fleas and Ticks
One of the most common things a cat can suffer from is fleas and ticks. Unfortunately, fleas and ticks can be found across the country, and they love to make themselves at home in your cat’s cozy coat. If you notice that your cat is aggressively biting and scratching themselves, there is a good chance that you’re about to have a flea problem.
Before you pick up a flea fighting cat shampoo or take a trip to the vet, make sure you do a thorough examination first. To do so, watch for any movement within your cat’s coat, and gently brush their fur with a fine-tooth comb. If you look closely enough, you’ll be able to see a handful of fleas, ticks, or flea eggs.
If your cat has fleas, it’s not the end of the world, not even close. While a trip to the vet can be expensive, flea and tick cat shampoo is more affordable and may provide the same results. A great flea and tick shampoo to use is Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo because it prevents and kills fleas, ticks, and flea eggs.
Dealing With Bacteria, Fungus, and Ringworm
Bacteria, fungus, ringworm, and yeast infections are all skin-based ailments that your cat can struggle with. Among these conditions, ringworm is the most common and has symptoms that you can diagnose at home. So, if you think your cat has ringworm, brace yourself.
Ringworm manifests just beneath your cat’s skin and comes with a handful of frightening symptoms. Symptoms include redness, loss of fur, a circular patch of missing hair, frequent itching, and skin lesions. If you notice any of these issues, you need to act right away to prevent further damage to your cat’s skin.
One of the best treatment options you can employ is the BEXLEY LABS Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo. This product is FDA approved and backed by vets for its effectiveness.
Getting a Handle on Shedding
Most of the time, we blame dogs for shedding all over the house, but cats shed too. Their hair is shorter, so at first, it’s harder to notice, but you can usually see excess fur building up if you regularly brush your cat. While shedding is a normal thing, especially when seasons change, we know how much of a hassle it can be.
So, if you’re looking to get a handle on your cat’s shedding problem, consider a product like TropiClean Shampoos for Pets. While it may take some time for your cat to adjust to this rinse shampoo, you’ll notice a reduction in shedding almost immediately.
Controlling Dandruff
Dandruff is generally a small issue that cats face, and it rears its ugly head as white flakes throughout your cat’s coat. Most cats can mitigate dandruff on their own, you know, since they’re such great bathers. Unfortunately, not every cat can handle their dandruff, and they’ll gladly welcome a little help from their human.
Combating dandruff is simple, and only requires a spray. The best spray for the job is Burt’s Bees Natural Dander Reducing Spray. Simply spray your cat’s coat every 2-3 days, and watch their dandruff disappear.
Keeping Your Kitten Clean
We’ve talked a lot about cleaning your cat, but what about your kitten? Kittens deserve a little bit of love too, and like babies, their fur and skin is more sensitive than adult cats. This means that skin problems and irritations are more likely to happen in kittens. Plus, if you start bathing your cat when they’re young, they’ll put up less of a fuss later in life.
If you’re going to bath your kitten, you need a tear-free and gentle cat shampoo. The perfect shampoo for the job is Burt’s Bees Tearless Kitten Shampoo.
Setting Up Your First Cat Bath
Now that you have a good idea of which product you need, it’s time to go over the details of a cat bath. Setting up a cat bath can seem intimidating because the process is a bit different than a human shower. The process is relatively simple; it just takes a little longer, especially if your cat makes a fuss out of it.
To begin, figure out a designated bathing location that your cat can get used to. We always recommend using your sink or bathtub because you can control the temperature of the water. Speaking of water, since a cat’s average body temperature is 101 degrees Fahrenheit, make sure your water is roughly a degree or two hotter than that to make them comfortable.
A rinse shampoo bath is the most challenging bath to set up, but the process isn’t too hard. To begin, make sure you cover your cat in an adequate amount of shampoo, but make sure you wet their coat first. Once you have the shampoo spread well, let it sit for between five and ten minutes, depending on the product. Then, simply rinse away.
Waterless shampoo is even more natural than rinse shampoo because you don’t need any water. Apply waterless shampoo the same way you would apply sunscreen on a hot summer day; rub it into your cat’s fur until you can’t see it anymore. For bonus points, brush out your cat’s coat while you do it, and see how much they love you later.
FAQ
Can You Use Human Shampoo on Cats?
While cats can use ordinary shampoos, we recommend sticking to cat shampoos. If you’re in a pinch, you can go ahead and use regular shampoo – just make sure it doesn’t have harmful chemicals like alcohol, sulfate, parabens, phthalates, and artificial dyes.
What Is a Good Substitute for Cat Shampoo?
There are a few home remedies that you can use, but the best one includes a little bit of apple vinegar and dish soap. Grab four cups of water, and add in one cup of dish soap and one cup of apple vinegar. Mix them well, and give it a shot! It won’t smell great, but it might get the job done. Keep in mind, this won’t help with any major skin or medical concerns; a specialized cat shampoo is a better option overall.
Can I Wash My Cat With Dish Soap to Kill Fleas?
So, you’ve heard the rumor that dish soap can kill fleas. While dish soap can kill fleas and their eggs, you need to make sure it’s a pH-balanced soap to prevent harm to your cat’s skin. For example, Dawn dish soap is a safe option.
How Often Should I Bathe a Cat?
While your cat likes to bathe themselves like thirty times a day, that doesn’t mean you should too. The safest way to keep your cat clean, without leading to dry skin, is to bathe your cat every 4-6 weeks. The only exceptions are if you’re dealing with fleas, bacteria, ticks, fungus, or yeast infections.
The Right Cat Shampoo Is Out There
The idea of bathing your cat sounds like a bad one, but sometimes it’s necessary. If your cat suffers from dry skin, skin infections, dandruff, and shedding, bathing them is the right thing to do. Let’s face it, cats are a bit narcissistic, but once you show them the joy of a warm bath and fresh coat, we bet they’ll be purring in no time.
Keep in mind, not every bath is going to work with your cat. Some cats will respond differently to certain baths, so if you struggle with one, don’t give up. The good news is that cat shampoo is affordable, so feel free to try a few different cat shampoos before settling on one. Good luck!
