HOLIDAY HOURS

Check here
SHARPENING

SHARPENING

Check our services
CLICK & COLLECT

CLICK & COLLECT

Auckland Region

What's the Best Shampoo to use on a Cats delicate skin?

As a loving and responsible pet owner, one of the essential aspects of caring for your furry feline companion is maintaining their overall hygiene and grooming. Cats are natural self-groomers, but sometimes they need a little extra help, especially when dealing with tough stains, unpleasant odors, or skin issues. This is where cat shampoos come to the rescue!

In this blog post, we'll explore some popular cat shampoo brands—CatSpace, BioGroom, and Fidos—and we'll help you identify what makes a good cat shampoo and what factors to consider when choosing the best product for your feline friend.

Grey cat licking paw while lying down in ferns, close up photo

Can you use Human Shampoo on Cats?

It's essential to understand that cats and humans have different hair and skin compositions, which means they require unique care. Human shampoos typically contain harsher ingredients that may strip natural oils from the hair and skin, leading to dryness and irritation. On the other hand, cat shampoos are specifically formulated to be mild and gentle, designed to clean your cat's fur without causing any harm. 

Are all Dog Shampoos safe to use on Cats? 

The short answer is 'not always'. If you check the label, most (but not all) shampoo manufacturers will say if the shampoo is also safe for use on cats and kittens. Some may be for dogs and cats only, others will specifically mention 'puppies and kittens' (if your cat is under 12 months old most class them as kittens still rather than adult cats).  

Our Top Cat Shampoo Brands:

CatSpace: CatSpace takes pride in its all-natural and premium grooming products for cats. Their cat shampoos are carefully formulated using plant-based ingredients that are both effective and safe for your feline friend. CatSpace offers a variety of options, including hypoallergenic and moisturizing shampoos, catering to various feline needs.

Here are some of our best sellers, or browse the full range here.

[product=cat-space-oatmeal-shampoo-295ml]
The Cat Space Oatmeal Shampoo is a gentle, dye-free formula that gently cleans and soothes itchy, irritated skin, leavening the fur moisturized and shiny. This mild formula is pH balanced and made with oatmeal extract, specially formulated for sensitive skin. It is also cruelty-free and contains no harsh soaps, fragrances or dyes.

Expired 10/24 - Current Buy 1 Get 1 Free Offer - Add 2 to Cart
[/product]
[product=cat-space-aloe-vera-shampoo-295ml]
The Cat Space Aloe Vera Shampoo is specially designed for cats with sensitive skin. Gently cleans and moisturizes even the stinkiest of coats while leaving the fur silky and tangle free. Contains natural extracts of Aloe Vera for a deep and thorough clean. Deodorizing shampoo that leaves behind a natural aroma.

Expired 10/24 - Current Buy 1 Get 1 Free Offer - Add 2 to Cart
[/product]

 

BioGroom: BioGroom is a well-established brand known for its dedication to pet grooming products. Their range of shampoos are developed by professional groomers and feature balanced pH levels, making them gentle on your pets skin, yet very effective. All of their formulas are designed to be used on both cats and dogs. They offer a variety of specialized shampoos for different coat types, colors, and concerns, such as colour brightening, odor neutralizing, and coat texture specific shampoos. Most Bio-Groom formulas are concentrated and are available in bulk sizes, making them a popular choice for Professional Cat Groomers. 

Here are some of our best sellers among cat groomers, or browse the full range here.

[product=bio-groom-protein-lanolin-tearless-shampoo-355ml]
This baby-mild, tearless formula won't strip the coat's natural oils. A great option for sensitive skin (yours or the cats!). It's very gentle, yet thoroughly cleans without stripping natural oils from skin and coat. Rinses quickly and cleanly. Leaves no irritating residue. Highlights all colours. Hair dries silky smooth, manageable and tangle free. Lovely choice for before clipping and scissoring. Dilutes 4:1 or can be used neat. Free of parabens, dyes and artificial thickeners.
[/product]
[product=bio-groom-kuddly-kitty-shampoo-236ml]
Bio-Groom Kuddly Kitty Shampoo is a tearless, soap-free conditioning shampoo for kittens. Kuddly Kitty leaves the coat soft fluffy and clean and helps to control body odors. This natural shampoo cleanses thoroughly and effortlessly without stripping the natural protective oils from the skin or coat. It’s pH balanced, rinses out quickly and completely for those impatient kittens, and leaves no irritating residue. Safe for kittens and safe to use with topical flea and tick treatments. Cruelty free, soap free, free of parabens and artificial thickeners.
[/product]
[product=bio-groom-purrfect-white-cat-shampoo-236ml]
Bio-Groom's Purrfect White is a conditioning coat brightener cat shampoo that also controls matting, tangling, and fly-away hair. Specifically developed for white and light-colored coats, special whiteners and pearlescent brighteners add brilliance and sparkle to the coat. This is a non-irritating, high-quality shampoo that leaves your cat’s coat clean, smooth, and easy to manage with a clean and fresh smell. Mild, coconut oil based formula gives life and body to the coat and helps prevent dryness. Designed to work quickly to a rich foam, but also rinses out quickly. Safe to use with topical flea and tick treatments.
[/product]

 

Fidos: Fidos is a trusted brand known for its dedication to pet care. All of their shampoos are formulated to be safe for Dogs, Cats, Puppies and Kittens, they even have a cat safe Flea Shampoo. Fidos offers options that help soothe itchy skin, and leave your cat's coat soft and shiny.

Here are some of our best sellers, or browse the full range here.

[product=fidos-everyday-shampoo-500ml]
Fidos Everyday Shampoo in the 500ml size is one of our best selling shampoos. Called Everyday shampoo for a reason, it won't dry or strip the coat of its natural oils. Soap-free and hypoallergenic for sensitive or allergic pets (great on your own skin too for professional groomers). Moisturises the coat and actually lifts soil and dirt off the hair for quick, easy rinsing.
[/product]

[product=fidos-puppy-kitten-shampoo-250ml]
Fidos Puppy & Kitten Shampoo is a soap-free, pH balanced shampoo formulated specially for a puppy's more delicate skin. The blend of gentle cleansing ingredients leave the coat clean and fresh, without drying or irritating the skin. A light & clean baby-powder scent unique to Fidos products. Handy 250ml size. Suitable for sensitive skin. Can be used with flea and tick products without needing to re-apply. Gentle enough for frequent use (as often as weekly).
[/product]

[product=fidos-flea-shampoo-500ml]
The Fidos Flea Shampoo for Dogs and Cats is the best smelling flea shampoo we've used. It's very effective for controlling fleas, ticks and lice on dogs and cats yet is a gentle, mild, soap-free formula which will not irritate even the most sensitive skin. Unlike other flea shampoos, it will not dry out the coat. The result is a soft, lustrous coat and no uninvited guests!
[/product]

 

Cat wrapped in purple towel after a bath, close up photo. The cat is a ginger tabby colour

What Makes a Good Cat Shampoo?

When selecting the best cat shampoo for your feline companion, keep the following factors in mind:

  1. Gentle and Natural Ingredients: Look for shampoos with natural ingredients that are gentle on your cat's skin and coat. Avoid products containing excessive sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances, as these can cause irritation.

  2. pH-Balanced Formula: A good cat shampoo should have a pH level specifically formulated for feline skin, which is more acidic than human skin. A balanced pH helps maintain the natural protective barrier of the skin.

  3. Specific Needs: Consider your cat's specific needs, such as sensitive skin, shedding control, or flea protection. Choose a shampoo that addresses these concerns.

  4. Veterinarian Recommendations: It's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before trying a new cat shampoo, especially if your cat has any existing skin conditions or allergies.

  5. Ease of Rinsing: Cats are not fond of baths, so a cat shampoo that is easy to rinse off will make the bathing experience less stressful for both you and your feline friend.

Black and white cat lying down on rug, sunbathing

Regular grooming, including occasional baths with a high-quality cat shampoo, is crucial to ensure your cat's fur remains clean, healthy, and fabulous! Brands like CatSpace, BioGroom, and Fidos offer excellent options to cater to your feline friend's unique grooming needs. Remember to choose gentle, natural, and pH-balanced formulas, while also considering your cat's specific requirements. Always prioritize your cat's comfort and well-being, and with the right cat shampoo, your furry companion will be purring with delight after every bath!

If you would like some personalized recommendations for your cat, just get in touch and we are happy to help!