The 5 Best Cat Brushes of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Cat brush FAQs
What kind of brush is best for cats?
The best brush for your cat depends on their hair type. Cats with long hair need a slicker or pin brush and possibly a deshedding tool to remove dead hair and dirt from their topcoat and undercoat. Long-haired cats prone to mats may also need a comb that can dig into dreadlocks and slowly untangle them. A slicker or pin brush can also be used on a short-haired cat, but they may prefer the feel of a soft, rubber curry comb. A grooming glove is another good option for short-haired cats, particularly if they are handling sensitive.
Is brushing good for cats?
Yes! Brushing a cat removes dead hair and skin cells that would otherwise end up being swallowed while grooming or shedding onto your floor. The less hair a cat consumes, the less likely they are to have regular hairballs. Brushing also distributes the natural oils in the coat to keep it shiny, stimulates blood circulation, and helps a cat and their caregiver bond.
How often should I brush my cat?
Opinions differ even among professionals regarding how often a cat should be brushed. According to the ASPCA, brushing once or twice a week can help keep a cat's coat healthy. VCA Hospitals recommends brushing your cat daily, especially if they have long hair or a thick coat. Tillman's rule of thumb is to brush your cat as often as they will let you, while Harper says he has no rule of thumb but recommends at least running your hands, if not a brush or comb, over your cat's body once daily. Older cats who cannot self-groom may need more regular sessions than younger cats.
How often should I use a deshedding tool on my long-haired or thick-coated cat?
No universal rules exist for brushing with a deshedding tool. For instance, Andis recommends using its deshedder a few times a week, while Furminator recommends using its tool once weekly.
How long should a brushing session with my cat last?
Cats "can go rapidly from purring to flailing sharp claws in your face" during grooming, says Miller. Instead of sticking to a set period of time, pay close attention to your cat's body language. If they become agitated or attempt to move away from the brush or comb, call an end to the session and pick it up again later.
How can I make brushing pleasant for my cat?
The earlier you begin to introduce your cat to brushing, the better. "Kittens that are regularly groomed and have their nails trimmed become used to being handled," says Simpson. To set your cat up for brushing success, Simpson recommends positioning them in a comfortable, quiet area and pairing gentle brush strokes or comb with delicious treats. Lickable foods such as Easy Cheese and Inaba Churu are especially high-value for many cats. Simpson says cats are less likely to be anxious if you work alone without restraining them.
Why do cats shed?
Shedding is a normal function of any animal with hair. "Everything has an expiration period," Harper says. "The hair will run its course, it'll fall out, and it will be replaced by a new follicle."
How does a cat's tongue work to remove hair?
A cat's tongue is covered with papillae, small rounded nubs that face backward and help a cat retain food while eating. Those papillae also capture dead, loose hair when they lick and groom their body.
Why do cats get hairballs?
The same papillae that trap hair while grooming prevent a cat from spitting out what they remove. The hair has nowhere else to go but down the throat and into the stomach. Most of the hair a cat swallows will be digested normally and excreted into a litter box. In some cats, particularly those with luxurious, long coats, some hair will remain in the stomach, where it slowly accumulates. Eventually, that ball of hair becomes irritating, and there's only one way to get it out: by vomiting.
If a cat is shedding more than usual, what might be going on?
A cat may begin to shed more than usual for various reasons, Harper says. Skin irritations due to parasites like fleas or allergies to a new food or something in the environment may cause a cat to scratch more often and lose additional hair. After a traumatic injury, a cat may also shed more around the wound, especially if they can scratch at the spot.
What should a cat parent do if they find a rash, scab, or other skin irritation?
Most minor scratches and scabs will resolve on their own, either without intervention or with an over-the-counter skin ointment or salve such as Neosporin, according to Harper. But if there's no change in three days or the irritation worsens, he recommends contacting your veterinarian.
Does my cat need a bath?
While cats don't need to be bathed, Miller says baths are effective for removing dander and dead undercoat and keeping a cat's coat fresh. However, not many cats enjoy being bathed by their guardians. If you think your cat might be willing to be bathed, introduce it cautiously and use a shampoo designed specifically for cats, not humans. If your cat really needs a cleaning but won't tolerate bathing, try a grooming wipe like Earthbath's hypoallergenic version.
When should I take my cat to a professional groomer?
Anytime a cat is heavily matted and requires shaving, it's best to consult a professional. "Cats' skin is easy to cut, so it's best to leave that up to us," says Tillman. If you have a cat who dislikes being brushed, don't hesitate to hire a groomer to do the basics. "It's best not to push the limits of a cat where you are in danger of being injured," says Miller.
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