Cat shampoos

Shampoos suitable for cats: gentle formulas for regular bathing, for long coats that mat, and for sensitive skin.

If your cat doesn't tolerate water, choose a dry shampoo or a no-rinse cleansing foam – applied to the coat and brushed through. When bathing with water, use lukewarm water and rinse thoroughly.

For an overview by brand, see the guide iGroom: which shampoo and conditioner to choose. The bath-cost calculator is a useful tool for estimating the cost.

How to choose a cat shampoo

Cats are bathed less often than dogs – usually when the coat is dirty or matted, and in long-haired breeds. Choose a mild shampoo that is suitable for cats and check the minimum age on the label. For a calm bath, see the article How to bathe a cat without stress.

Shampoo for cats with sensitive skin

Hypoallergenic formulas, such as iGroom Hypoallergenic and Chris Christensen SmartWash 50 Hypoallergenic, suit dry and sensitive skin. If there is itching, dandruff or bald patches, see a vet.

Shampoo for long and white coats

Long coats mat easily – a detangling shampoo such as iGroom Deshedding + Detangling makes brushing easier and reduces shedding. For white and light coats choose SmartWash 50 Whitening or White on White. See also breed care: Persian, Maine Coon, Ragdoll.

Dry shampoo for cats

If your cat won't tolerate water, a no-rinse foam cleans the coat as you brush it through: Bugalugs No Rinse for cats with papaya and coconut (for cats and kittens over 8 weeks) or Bugalugs Pre & Post Probiotic for cats. More about the brand in the article Bugalugs for cats.

Kitten shampoo and flea shampoo

Groom Professional Tender Puppy Kitty is made for a kitten's first baths, while TropiClean for puppies and kittens is for 12 weeks and older. Bugalugs Flea & Tick for cats with neem oil helps wash fleas and ticks out of the coat (for cats and kittens over 8 weeks), but it does not replace the parasite treatment your vet recommends.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bathe my cat with dog shampoo?

Only if the label says the product is also suitable for cats. Some ingredients that are safe for dogs are not suitable for cats.

How often should I bathe my cat?

Most short-haired cats rarely need a bath. Long-haired cats and hairless breeds such as the Sphynx are bathed more often – see the breed care pages, for example Sphynx and Persian.