Cats
Cat shampoo
Little things. Happy cats.
12 items picked for everyday life with your pet, with shipping estimates on every item.
A happy life, one little thing at a time.All cats grooming & hygiene →Cat litter boxes →Cat brushes →Litter box furniture & enclosures →Cat grooming supplies →Litter accessories →Litter mats →Cat deshedding brushes →Cat nail clippers →Cat litter →Self cleaning litter boxes →
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All cat shampoo
Little essentials. Lots of love.
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Help choosing cat shampoo
Buying guides and care advice written for this range: what to measure, what matters and what to skip.
From our guides
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Shop cat shampoo alternatives and bath helpers: no-rinse cat bath sets with a towel, waterless cleaning mousse, a coat cleaning spray, and a breathable mesh grooming bag that keeps claws in check during a bath or nail trim. This page is for owners of cats who will not tolerate a full wash, older cats who cannot groom themselves well, and cats who got into something messy. Below is when a cat really needs a bath and how to make one easier.
Does your cat need a bath at all
Most healthy adult cats do not. VCA Animal Hospitals notes that cats groom themselves thoroughly and rarely need a bath. The exceptions are cats who cannot reach their whole coat, such as overweight or arthritic cats and seniors, cats with skin allergies their vet is managing, and cats that have rolled in something sticky, oily or smelly.
If your cat suddenly stops grooming, develops greasy or matted fur, or scratches constantly, see a vet before reaching for shampoo. A change in grooming is often a sign of pain, dental trouble or skin disease rather than a cleaning problem.
No-rinse and waterless options
Waterless products are the easiest route for most cats. A cleaning mousse or foam is worked into the coat with your fingers, then wiped off and brushed through, with no tub involved. A no-rinse bath set with a towel works the same way for spot cleaning or a full coat refresh.
Use only products labeled for cats. VCA advises that human shampoos, including baby shampoo, are too harsh for feline skin. Because cats lick themselves clean afterward, wipe off any excess product thoroughly and keep it away from the eyes, ears and nose.
Using a cat grooming bag
A mesh grooming bag wraps the body and closes around the neck, leaving the head out. It keeps claws inside, so you can wash, wipe, trim nails or give medicine without being scratched, while the breathable mesh lets water and air through.
Get your cat used to it before you need it. Lay the bag out with treats, then zip your cat in for a few seconds and release it, building up over several days. A calm cat in a bag is safer than a frightened cat held down.
How to bathe a cat when you must
Brush first and work out tangles, because water tightens mats. Prepare everything before you bring your cat in: a sink or tub with a non-slip mat, lukewarm water a few inches deep, cat shampoo, towels and a cup for rinsing. Keep the room warm and quiet.
Wet the body, not the head, lather gently, then rinse until the water runs clear, since leftover shampoo irritates skin and will be licked off. Wipe the face with a damp cloth. Towel dry and keep your cat in a warm room until fully dry. Use a dryer only on low and only if your cat accepts it.
Brushing does most of the work
Regular brushing removes loose hair, spreads natural skin oils and cuts down hairballs. VCA recommends daily brushing for long, silky or curly coats, especially behind the ears, under the arms and on the back of the legs. Short-coated cats need it less often.
For large mats, do not cut them out with scissors, since it is easy to cut the skin underneath. A groomer or vet can clip them safely. A quick brush after a waterless bath also lifts dirt and leaves the coat looking finished.
How often should you bathe a cat?
Most healthy adult cats never need routine baths. Bathe only when your cat is soiled with something it cannot or should not groom off, or when your vet recommends it for a skin condition.
Can I use human shampoo on my cat?
No. Human shampoos, including baby shampoo, are too harsh for cat skin. Use a product made for cats, rinse or wipe it off thoroughly, and keep it away from the eyes and ears.
What is a waterless cat shampoo?
It is a foam, mousse or spray you work into the coat and then wipe and brush out, with no rinsing. It suits cats who panic in water and is useful for spot cleaning between grooms.
How do I bathe a cat that hates water?
Try a waterless mousse first. If a wash is unavoidable, use a grooming bag, a non-slip mat, lukewarm water, and keep the head dry. Short, calm sessions work far better than a long struggle.
Why is my cat's fur greasy?
Greasy fur often means a cat is not grooming properly, which can be caused by weight, arthritis, dental pain or skin disease. A vet check is worth booking if it appears suddenly.