Unlike humans, cats are not required to bathe frequently. Their saliva works like a detergent for them, while the tongues are like combs that help them in getting rid of dirt sticking to their fur. As it’s not a hidden fact that cats are afraid of water, it is highly risky to pour water on their bodies and make them panic. However, sometimes our pets get way too grimy to be left unwashed, and there has to be a way out from such situations.
We can find a variety of shampoos in the market which are specifically designed for cats who always frown whenever they see water.
In this article, we will share the five best cat shampoos available in the market that are safe, easily available, and affordable for you.
Before hunting for the best cat shampoos, there are several facts and precautions you must keep in mind while bathing your cat.
- Always look for shampoos that are specifically manufactured for cats. You cannot use products that are not made for cats. For example, shampoos and soaps that we use daily are harmful to cats, and you should always avoid bathing your cats with products that are made for humans or other animals as cats have extremely sensitive skin, and some products may cause health issues for them.
- Brush your cat before taking her for a bath to get rid of the dead fur on her body. Doing this will make the bathing process quick and easy.
- Choose a time when your cat is tired and sleepy. This will make it easy for you to bathe her, and your pet won’t have the energy to resist and panic.
- Don’t forget to clean your cat’s face with a damp cloth instead of water and be extra careful while you do so, as cats have the most sensitive eyes and ears.
- Dry her thoroughly and quickly. It is even recommended to keep her in a warm room until she is completely dried up.
Now when you’re completely aware of the facts and precautions you have to take before bathing your cats, it’s high time we reveal the top 5 best cat shampoos for your furball.
| Product | Brand | Rating | Price |
| Burt’s Bees for Kittens Natural Tearless Shampoo with Buttermilk | Burt’s Bees | 4.6 | $6.49 |
| Arm & Hammer 2-in-1 Deodorizing & Dander Reducing Shampoo for Cats | Arm & Hammer | 4.6 | $5.99 |
| Earthbath 2-in-1 Conditioning Cat Shampoo | Earthbath | 4.6 | $15 |
| TropiClean Shampoos for Pets | TropiClean | 4.6 | $10.99 |
| Oatmeal Shampoo – Grooming for Dogs and Cats, Sensitive Skin Formula | John Paul Pets | 4.7 | $7.89 |
Burt’s Bees for Kittens Natural Tearless Shampoo with Buttermilk
Made with natural ingredients, the Burt Bees’ natural tearless shampoo will prove to be the best cat shampoo for your furry feline. This product is cruelty-free and is formulated without colorants, sulfates, and added fragrances. It is pH balanced, which makes it suitable for all cats and kittens.
Key Features
- Vet-Recommended
- Made from Natural Ingredients
- No Alcohol, No Sulphates, No Added Colors
| What’s Best About It | Flaws But Not the Deal Breakers |
| It is tear-free, thus safe for kittens. | A wet shampoo (some cats may be aversive to water) |
| Made from natural ingredients. | Some users reported it was hard to completely rinse it off of their cat’s fur. |
| pH balanced for cats and kittens and is free from artificial fragrances or color. |
Arm & Hammer 2-in-1 Deodorizing & Dander Reducing Shampoo for Cats
This is a 2-in-1 shampoo that is ideal for removing dander while also combatting the cat’s odor. It contains baking soda, which naturally fights odor. It comes in the form of foam, which helps to keep the cat’s skin moisturized and soft. With the scent of fresh blueberries and pomegranate, this cat shampoo is an ideal choice for people who want their cats to smell good.
Key Features
- Waterless foam
- Helps in reducing dander
- Contains baking soda
| What’s Best About It | Flaws But Not the Deal Breakers |
| A soothing, moisturizing formula | Some cat owners complained about their hands getting dry and itchy after giving a bath to their cats with this shampoo |
| Leaves behind a fresh blueberry and pomegranate scent. | |
| Contains baking soda for removing cat odor. |
Earthbath 2-in-1 Conditioning Cat Shampoo
This 2-in-1 shampoo with conditioner is specially formulated for cats and kittens. It has a gentle, pH-balanced formula that leaves a cat with shiny, soft, and manageable fur. All its ingredients are natural and organic, such as renewable plant-derived and coconut-based cleansers, organic aloe vera, and vitamin E. It is free from Parabens, Dyes, Soap, Sulfates, Phthalates, and Alcohol. Also, these are cruelty-free.
Key Features
- pH-balanced formula
- All-natural and organic ingredients
- Free from harmful and artificial chemicals.
| What’s Best About It | Flaws But Not the Deal Breakers |
| Moisturising, 2-in-1 formula, which works as a shampoo as well as conditioner. | Some cat owners complained its scent is too light and goes away quickly. |
| Leaves behind a subtle scent of wild cherries. | |
| Free from harmful chemicals and dyes. |
TropiClean Shampoos for Pets – Best Cat Shampoo
The next shampoo we picked up for you is TropiClean’s coconut and berries shampoo. The best fact about this product is that it is mild and can be used for washing and bathing cats who are12 weeks or older. It is made up of natural and organic ingredients and is free from artificial colors, dyes, and scents. The TropiClean shampoo is the best to keep your cat moisturize and smell fresh.
Key Features:
- Mild shampoo
- Ideal for cats that are 12 weeks or older
- Natural and organic ingredients
| What’s Best About It | Flaws But Not the Deal Breakers |
| It is a mild shampoo, perfect for pets with sensitive skin | Pricey as compared to other brands’ shampoos available in the market. |
| It smells like coconut and berries. | Some people complained it didn’t smell as good as other pet shampoos. |
| Also suitable for younger pets. |
Oatmeal Shampoo – Grooming for Dogs and Cats, Sensitive Skin Formula
This shampoo is formulated with quality ingredients such as Hydrolyzed oat protein, aloe, and chamomile. It gently cleanses and moisturizes cats’ fur, and its concentrated botanical formula helps relieve dryness and itchiness.
Key Features
- Relaxing scent
- Contains Sweet Almond Oil
- This brand collects donations for animal causes
| What’s Best About It | Flaws But Not the Deal Breakers |
| It is a sensitive skin formula | The scent is very light and easily goes away |
| It has a relaxing scent | It may make some cats’ fur greasy |
| Helps relieve dryness and itchiness |
So, with all the details given above, we hope you will be more confident in making the right decision for your cat. She may not need frequent baths, but it would be best for you to have a suitable shampoo handy and be well informed about bathing her. Remember to never use human shampoos or soaps on your pets. And also, always check the label before buying anything for your furry fellows. It is always a wise choice to go for products that are natural and organic.