The 10 Best Cat Brushes

The 10 Best Cat Brushes

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Cats are fastidious creatures. They spend hours grooming themselves every day, unable to leave a single hair out of place.

Because cats do most of the work taking care of their own coats, many cat owners neglect to do much grooming at home.

No matter how well your cat takes care of his own coat, he could probably benefit from some help from time to time.

Regular grooming helps reduce hairballs, improves skin and coat health, and it gives you some quality time to spend with your cat.

You don’t have to spend a lot of time doing it, but it should be something you include in your weekly pet care routine.

At a Glance: Best Cat Brushes To Buy

We highly recommend looking at the comparison table we have below where we highlighted the features of each product. You’ll also find more detailed information about each product later in the article.

Compare Best Cat Brushes

Overall Best 1. HappyDogz Magic Pro Deshedding Tool View on Amazon Read Review	Runner Up 2. FURminator Long Hair Cat Deshedding Tool View on Chewy Read Review	Best Slicker Brush 3. Safari Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush for Cats View on Chewy Read Review	Best Cat Brush For Short-Haired Cats 4. Hertzko Self-Cleaning Dog & Cat Slicker Brush View on Chewy Read Review	Best Cat Brush For Long-Haired Cats 5. Hertzko Double Sided Dog & Cat Dematting Comb View on Chewy Read Review	Best Cat Brush For Sensitive Skin 6. Hartz Slicker Brush For Cats View on Chewy Read Review	Best Cat Shedding Comb 7. Safari Cat Shedding Comb View on Chewy Read Review	Best Cat Grooming Gloves 8. HandsOn All-In-One Pet Bathing & Grooming Gloves View on Chewy Read Review	Best Rubber Cat Brush 9. KONG Dog ZoomGroom Multi-Use Brush View on Chewy Read Review	Best Dual-Sided Cat Brush 10. Elfirly Pet Grooming Tools - 2 Sided Undercoat Rake for Cats and Dogs View on Amazon Read Review
Type Deshedding tool	Type Deshedding tool	Type Slicker brush	Type Slicker brush	Type Dematting comb	Type Slicker brush	Type Shedding comb	Type Grooming gloves	Type Rubber brush	Type Double sided
Bristles Stainless steel	Bristles Stainless steel	Bristles Stainless steel, fine	Bristles Retractable, wire	Bristles Stainless-steel, blunted tips	Bristles Wire, fine	Bristles Rounded teeth, two lengths	Bristles Rubber nodules	Bristles Rubber, soft	Bristles Wire pin, soft bristles
Key Features Reduce shed fur, easy detachable shedding blades, comfortable ergonomic handle	Key Features Stainless-steel edge, removes loose hair, ergonomic handle	Key Features Self-cleaning, comfort grip handle, great for shedding	Key Features Self-cleaning feature, wide surface area, comfort grip handle	Key Features Double-sided design, anti-slip handle, curved teeth	Key Features Extra-fine bristles, safe and gentle, ergonomic handle	Key Features Reduces shedding, contoured wood handle, multi-length teeth	Key Features Comfortable to wear, massaging action, collects loose hair	Key Features Soft rubber bristles, massaging action, collects loose hair	Key Features Double-sided design, ergonomic nonslip handle, great for medium to long hair

Grooming your cat isn’t difficult, but you do need the right tools for the job. A good brush for cats will depend on the length and thickness of your cat’s coat. Read on to learn more about how to properly groom your cat and to see our recommendations for the best cat brushes.

What To Look For In A Good Cat Brush?

Not all cat brushes are created equal. A regular bristle brush is fine for most cases, but sometimes you need something that will really get into your cat’s undercoat or something to work through tangles.

Long hair cats need a different type of brush than short hair cats, and a very thick coat might need a different kind of brush entirely. Keep these things in mind when shopping for a cat brush.

Here are some things to consider when shopping for a cat brush:

• Fur Length – Long-haired cats need a brush with very fine teeth like a slicker brush while short-haired cats do well with a bristle brush or pin brush. You can even find dual-sided brushes that have one of each.
• Pins or Bristles – Bristles are great for smoothing your cat’s coat and removing loose hair while pins may be better for working through tangles.
• Bristle Spacing – The spacing of the bristles on your cat brush is determined by your cat’s coat type and length. For a very coarse coat, stiff closely spaced bristles work best.
• Handle – Comfort is important for both you and your cat during a grooming session, so look for a cat brush that has a handle comfortable enough to hold for an extended period of time.
• Cleaning – Depending how often you brush your cat, you may collect a lot of dead hair and you’ll need to clean the brush. Make sure you choose one that isn’t too difficult to clean – some deshedding tools even come with an automatic cleaning feature.

Now that you know a little more about the options in cat grooming tools, you have a better idea what to look for when shopping. Because there are so many options out there, however, you might still be a little confused. To help you find the best brush for your cat, read on to see our recommendations.

Our Top Picks For Best Rated Cat Brushes

When it comes to cat brushes, it’s largely a matter of preference but it also depends on your cat’s coat. A brush designed for long fur may not work as well as on short fur, and vice versa. To help you make the right choice for your cat, we’ve assembled a list of the 10 best cat brushes in different categories. Check them out below!

Overall Best

1.

HappyDogz Magic Pro Deshedding Tool

View on Amazon

Product Info

• Type: Deshedding tool
• Bristles: Stainless steel
• Key Features: Reduce shed fur, easy detachable shedding blades, comfortable ergonomic handle

Pros

• Reduce shedding by up to 95%
• Stainless steel shedding blades designed for medium to large or small to medium dogs with long and short hair
• Has an ergonomically designed handle to reduce hand fatigue
• Affordable

Cons

• Not specifically designed for a certain breed, size or coat type, so it may not work as well on dogs with specific grooming needs

It has a stainless steel shedding blades that reach deep beneath the topcoat to access the fuzzy undercoat, capturing loose hairs and stopping them from gathering into mats or shedding throughout the house.

The HappyDogz Magic Pro Deshedding Tool does a great job of reducing shed fur by up to 95% in just minutes and helps promote healthy blood flow. The deshedder brush has been tried, tested, and proven by numerous, dogs, cats, pet owners and professional pet groomers.

Runner Up

2.

FURminator Long Hair Cat Deshedding Tool

View on Chewy

View on Amazon

Product Info

• Type: Deshedding tool
• Bristles: Stainless steel
• Key Features: Stainless-steel edge, removes loose hair, ergonomic handle

Pros

• Stainless-steel edge reaches through the top coat
• Removes loose and dead hair easily
• Curved edge conforms to cat’s shape for comfort

Cons

• May be uncomfortable for some cats
• Light pressure is recommended for safety

If your cat has extremely thick fur, it can be tough to find a pet brush that actually works. The FURminator is specifically designed to reach through the topcoat into your cat’s undercoat without damaging his skin.

It features an ergonomic handle with a soft grip and a curved edge that conforms to your cat’s natural shape for comfort. With regular use, this brush can reduce shedding up to 90% and it may help control hairballs as well. It also features the FURjector button which ejects accumulated cat fur with ease for quick cleanup.

Best Slicker Brush

3.

Safari Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush for Cats

View on Chewy

View on Amazon

Product Info

• Type: Slicker brush
• Bristles: Stainless steel, fine
• Key Features: Self-cleaning, comfort grip handle, great for shedding

Pros

• Removes dead and loose hair from undercoat
• Self-cleaning feature retracts pins
• Comfort grip handle with angled brush head

Cons

• Some cats dislike the feel of wire pins
• Use caution and limited pressure to avoid irritating skin

The key to keeping shedding under control is to remove as much fur from your cat’s coat as you can before it can be shed. This slicker brush from Safari is a great option because it features ultra-fine stainless-steel pins which reach through to the undercoat, removing dead hair and loose hair with ease.

The major benefit, however, is the self-cleaning feature. Simply press a button to retract the pins then dispose of the collected hair. The handle has a comfort grip and the brush features an angled brush head to make grooming easy and comfortable for both you and your cat.

Best Cat Brush For Short-Haired Cats

4.

Hertzko Self-Cleaning Dog & Cat Slicker Brush

View on Chewy

View on Amazon

Product Info

• Type: Slicker brush
• Bristles: Retractable, wire
• Key Features: Self-cleaning feature, wide surface area, comfort grip handle

Pros

• Wide brush head collects hair over a large area
• Comfort grip handle great for longer grooming sessions
• Retract pins with a push of a button for easy cleaning

Cons

• Collects hair quickly which may require frequent cleaning, bristles too sharp for some cats

Designed for cats with any type or length of coat, we like the Hertzko self-cleaning slicker brush for cats with short fur because it makes quick work of even heavy shedders. With its wide surface area and fine bristles, this brush collects a great deal of cat hair all at once.

Then, simply click the button to retract the bristles and wipe the hair away into the trash. This cat brush has a comfortable, anti-slip handle to allow for even a longer grooming session without straining your hands and its massaging action keeps your cat calm and comfortable the whole time.

Best Cat Brush For Long-Haired Cats

5.

Hertzko Double Sided Dog & Cat Dematting Comb

View on Chewy

View on Amazon

Product Info

• Type: Dematting comb
• Bristles: Stainless-steel, blunted tips
• Key Features: Double-sided design, anti-slip handle, curved teeth

Pros

• Rounded teeth reach into undercoat without scratching
• Anti-slip handle for comfort
• Double-sided design for different coat types

Cons

• Rounded teeth can pull on tangles and mats
• Takes some time to learn how to use it well

Mats and tangles can be a hassle, but this double-sided dematting comb from Hertzko makes quick work of them. With rounded stainless-steel teeth, this dematting comb eliminates everything from knots and tangles to dander and dirt.

The teeth are long enough to penetrate into your cat’s undercoat without scratching the skin and there are two sides so you can choose the perfect length. Plus, with an anti-slip handle you can groom in comfort.

Best Cat Brush For Sensitive Skin

6.

Hartz Slicker Brush For Cats

View on Chewy

View on Amazon

Product Info

• Type: Slicker brush
• Bristles: Wire, fine
• Key Features: Extra-fine bristles, safe and gentle, ergonomic handle

Pros

• Safe and gentle for everyday use
• Extra-fine bristles for sensitive skin
• Ergonomic handle for comfort

Cons

• May not work as well on thick or long coats

If your cat has sensitive skin, grooming can be an uncomfortable experience. This slicker brush from Hartz is a great option because it is small and made with extra-fine bristles.

The fine bristles grab loose hair from your cat’s undercoat, removing it easily without discomfort. The ergonomic handle is anti-slip and easy to hold and maneuver, plus the entire tool is safe and gentle to use.

Best Cat Shedding Comb

7.

Safari Cat Shedding Comb

View on Chewy

View on Amazon

Product Info

• Type: Shedding comb
• Bristles: Rounded teeth, two lengths
• Key Features: Reduces shedding, contoured wood handle, multi-length teeth

Pros

• Multi-length tips effectively remove hair
• Rounded tips for protection
• Massaging action stimulates release of natural oils

Cons

• Wooden handle isn’t non-slip
• Long teeth can cause pain or irritation with too much force

When it comes to grooming your cat, you want to get the job done well but have it over with as quickly as possible. This Safari Shedding Comb makes grooming quick and easy thanks to its multi-length teeth. The comb features sturdy, metal teeth with smooth, rounded tips for safety.

The shorter teeth collect loose hair from the outer layer of the coat while the longer teeth reach through to the undercoat. Plus, the rounded tips massage the skin to stimulate the production and distribution of natural oils.

Best Cat Grooming Gloves

8.

HandsOn All-In-One Pet Bathing & Grooming Gloves

View on Chewy

View on Amazon

Product Info

• Type: Grooming gloves
• Bristles: Rubber nodules
• Key Features: Comfortable to wear, massaging action, collects loose hair

Pros

• Remove hair from coat with gentle massaging action
• Lightweight and durable design
• Can be used dry or wet

Cons

• Some cats dislike the sensation

If you have a hard time getting your cat to sit still through a grooming session, you may want to consider grooming gloves instead of a cat brush. Grooming gloves allow you to collect loose fur from your cat’s coat while petting him, making it an enjoyable and relaxing experience for your cat.

These gloves feature a unique nodule design that massages your cats skin while collecting loose hair, whether they’re wet or dry. The gloves are lightweight but durable, designed not to crack, tear, or grow mold.

Best Rubber Cat Brush

9.

KONG Dog ZoomGroom Multi-Use Brush

View on Chewy

View on Amazon

Product Info

• Type: Rubber brush
• Bristles: Rubber, soft
• Key Features: Soft rubber bristles, massaging action, collects loose hair

Pros

• Soft rubber fingers act as magnet for loose fur
• Massaging action keeps cat calm
• Helps reduce shedding and hairballs with regular use

Cons

• Won’t help much with mats or tangles
• Accumulated hair must be removed by hand

Some cats simply don’t like to be groomed, but that doesn’t mean you should skip it. The key is to find something they will tolerate that also gets the job done. The KONG Zoom Groom is the ultimate solution because it is soft and gentle, making your cat feel like he’s getting a massage while you’re still removing hair.

It features long, rubber fingers that act as a magnet for loose hair while the massaging action keeps your cat calm. This cat brush won’t do much for removing tangles and mats, but it can help reduce shedding and hairballs when used regularly.

Best Dual-Sided Cat Brush

10.

Elfirly Pet Grooming Tools - 2 Sided Undercoat Rake for Cats and Dogs

View on Amazon

Product Info

• Type: Double sided
• Bristles: Wire pin, soft bristles
• Key Features: Double-sided design, ergonomic nonslip handle, great for medium to long hair

Pros

• Double-sided design for medium and long hair
• Ergonomic nonslip handle for comfort
• Pin side works through tangles and mats

Cons

• May not be as effective for short or thick coats

Why buy two separate cat brushes when you can have the benefits of two in one? This double-sided cat brush combines a sleek, soft bristle brush with a wire pin brush.

The wire pin side works gently through mats and tangles while the bristle side can be used to smooth your cat’s coat and add shine. The brush features an ergonomically designed non-slip handle for comfort and ease of use. With regular use, this brush will help you keep your long-haired cat’s coat soft and smooth.

The Importance Of Grooming Your Cat

As a cat owner, it’s your job to support your cat’s total health and wellness. In addition to choosing a high-quality and nutritious cat food, you also need to make sure your cat’s skin and coat stay healthy.

Grooming your cat regularly keeps his fur smooth and soft, free from mats and tangles. As you brush your cat’s coat, you’ll distribute the natural oils produced in his skin which keep the skin and coat hydrated.

Frequent brushing helps reduce shedding (any may also reduce hairballs), and it gives you more opportunities to spot problems like fleas, injuries, or changes in skin and coat condition.

Simple Tips For Brushing Your Cat

Cats are known for being a little ornery at times.

They can go from purring nicely on your lap to grabbing your hand with their sharp teeth or claws.

If you haven’t done it before, the idea of keeping your cat still and patient long enough to groom him might sound like a dream.

The truth is you may have to start slowly, getting your cat used to the idea with some grooming gloves before you move on to a pet hair brush or pet comb. With a little practice, however, you’ll become an expert groomer.

Here are some tips for grooming your cat properly:

• Approach your cat when he’s in a relaxed mood and offer him a few treats to encourage him to stay near you – if he enjoys petting, you can do a little of that as well.
• Start out slowly, running a bristle brush or grooming gloves over your cat’s coat without applying much pressure – you may need to keep your grooming session short at first.
• Once your cat gets used to grooming, brush in the direction of hair growth down his back and sides, working from head to tail
• If you encounter a mat or tangle, try to gently work through it with your fingers instead of pulling on it with the brush or cutting it out – you may need a dematting tool for stubborn mats.
• For cats that are a little nervous, try laying them down on a counter or on the floor between your legs, facing away from you – be sure to offer a few treats along the way as rewards.

While you’re at it, you may as well trim your cat’s nails.

Depending how fast your cat’s nails grow, you may need to trim them more often than once a week.

Simply press gently on the toe to expose the nail then trim off the sharp tip – don’t cut too far or you’ll sever the quick and cause the nail to bleed.

Final Remarks

Every pet owner needs a good pet brush. Whether you have a cat with long hair, short hair, thin hair, or a thick coat, taking care of it is part of your job as a responsible cat owner.

Your cat will do most of the work in grooming himself, but he may need a little extra help with it comes to detangling and removing mats.

Plus, a weekly grooming session is the perfect way to spend some quality time with your cat.

When it comes to the best brush for cat grooming, there is no single recommendation. We’ve done our best to assemble a list of the best options on the market in different categories to help you choose the right one for your cat and for your own needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Do I Need to Brush My Cat?

Cat hair is a fact of life for cat owners, but brushing your cat isn’t just about controlling shedding – it’s also important for the health of your cat’s coat. Long-haired cats need to be brushed more often than short-haired cats to prevent mats and minimize hairballs. The softer and finer your cat’s coat, the more often you’ll need to brush it. Most short-hair cats do well with once or twice weekly brushing though long hair cats may need to be brushed daily.

Can I Use a Human Hairbrush on Cats?

You could, but it probably won’t be very effective. Human hairbrushes typically have longer bristles than a cat brush, so it might help smooth out the top coat but it won’t reach the undercoat. If you really want to control shedding, you need a deshedding tool or a slicker brush to help remove dead hair. Removing loose hair from the undercoat will also help control hairballs.

Do I Really Need to Bathe My Cat?

You’ve probably heard that cats hate water, so the idea of bathing your cat might sound more than a little crazy. After all, cats spend most of their day grooming themselves.

The truth is, however, that most cats need an occasional bath. This is particularly true for older or arthritic cats who have a hard time reaching certain parts of their body. It could also be necessary for cats with skin conditions or if you want to remove excess dander from your cat’s skin. Just be sure not to bathe him too often and only use cat-approved shampoo to avoid stripping the natural oils from his coat.