1. Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo for Cats
Key Features
Kills fleas, flea larvae and eggs, lice, and ticks
Prevents flea development for up to 30 days
Suitable for use on sensitive skin
Cleans thoroughly and leaves a pleasant smell
Can be used on kittens from 12 weeks
If you are looking for an effective flea shampoo that also prevents flea development, then Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor might be just what you need. The shampoo is formulated to be safe for use on sensitive skin and contains aloe, coconut extract, oatmeal, and lanolin. It is safe to use on cats and kittens from 12-weeks and can also be used safely on dogs. The shampoo is effective for fleas, flea eggs and larvae, ticks, and lice. The insect growth regulator kills and prevents flea development for up to 30 days, helping to break the flea life cycle and giving you peace of mind that your cat is fully protected.
2. Hartz Flea & Tick Shampoos for Cats
Key Features
Kills fleas and ticks on contact
Can be used weekly to prevent fleas
Cleans thoroughly and leaves a pleasant smell
Suitable for use on kittens from 12 weeks
Hartz Flea & Tick Shampoos and Sprays kill fleas and ticks on contact. The shampoo thoroughly cleans and deodorizes your cat’s coat and can be used weekly as a preventative measure against fleas. It is safe to use on cats and kittens from 12 weeks old and can also be used safely on dogs, horses, and ferrets.
3. Vet’s Best Flea & Tick Waterless Bath for Cats
Key Features
Foam shampoo that does not require rinsing
Kills fleas, flea larvae and eggs, and ticks on contact
Plant-based formula with essential oils
Repels mosquitos
Suitable for use on kittens from 12 weeks
If your cat hates bath time, then Vet’s Best Flea & Tick Waterless Bath for Cats may be the answer you have been searching for. The plant-based formula contains essential oils including peppermint oil and eugenol from clove plants. It is specially designed not to need rinsing. All you need to do is work it into your furry feline’s coat and then groom as normal. It effectively kills fleas, flea larvae and their eggs, and ticks on contact. It also acts as a repellant for mosquitos, giving your cat added protection. The foam shampoo contains no added perfumes and is suitable for use on cats and kittens from 12 weeks old.
4. RX4 Cat Shampoo Conditioner
Key Features
Kills flea eggs
Soothes and treats a range of different skin conditions
Natural, organic formula, free from chlorhexidine
Vet recommended and clinically trialed
Cleans, conditions, and leaves a fresh smell
If you are looking for a shampoo that can deal with a range of skin issues as well as soothing flea bites, then RX4 Dog Cat Shampoo Conditioner might be just what you are looking for. The vet recommended formula has undergone clinical trials and has been shown to aid in detangling and deshedding. It also soothes sore skin that has resulted from fungal infections, ringworm, flea bites, or eczema. The shampoo is free from chlorhexidine and contains natural ingredients, including essential oils. It kills flea eggs, reduces allergies. Heals hotspots, cleans thoroughly, and leaves behind a much refresher smelling pet.
5. Lambert Kay Flea and Tick Conditioning Cat Shampoo
Key Features
Kills ticks and adult fleas
Contains natural pyrethrins and no harsh chemicals
Cleans, conditions, and leaves coats more manageable
Contains coconut extract
Fragrance lasts for up to two weeks
If you are looking for a shampoo that kills ticks and adult fleas without harsh chemicals, then Lambert Kay Fresh ‘n Clean Flea and Tick Small Pet Conditioning Shampoo could be the answer. The shampoo is formulated with natural pyrethrins that kill fleas and ticks quickly. The shampoo contains coconut extract to leave your cat’s coat shiny, soft, and more manageable, as well as clean and smelling fresh.
6. Vet’s Best No-Rinse Clean Waterless Cat Shampoo
Key Features
Soothes and conditions skin and coat following a flea infestation
Does not negatively affect topical flea treatments
No-rinse formula
Suitable for a kitten from 12 weeks
Natural ingredients formulated and recommended by vets
If you need a shampoo to deal with the results of a flea infestation that won’t negatively affect any topical treatments that you have used, then Vet’s Best No-Rinse Clean Waterless Cat Shampoo could be the answer. The shampoo has the added benefit of not needing rinsing, so it is perfect for cats who do not like bath time. The formula utilizes a range of natural ingredients, including aloe vera, neem oil, and oatmeal to clean, condition, and moisturize your cat’s coat and skin. The shampoo is formulated and recommended by veterinarians and can be used safely on kittens from 12 weeks old.
7. NATXZ DeFlea Ready to Use Flea & Tick Shampoo
Key Features
Kills fleas, ticks, and lice
Non-toxic and free from synthesized pyrethrin-based pesticides
Suitable to use on cats and kittens from 12 weeks old
Safe for use with topical flea treatments
While marketed as a flea shampoo for dogs NATXZ DeFlea Ready to Use Flea & Tick Shampoo is also safe and effective for cats and kittens from 12 weeks old. The shampoo is designed to kills fleas, ticks, and lice on contact without the use of synthesized pyrethrin based pesticides. The ready to use formula does not wash off topical flea and tick treatments and provides a non-toxic deep clean for your cat’s fur and skin.
8. Zodiac Flea and Tick Shampoo for Cats
Key Features
Kills fleas and ticks
Contains coconut conditioners
Cleans and conditions
Suitable for cats and dogs
Can be used from 12 weeks old
If you are looking for a basic flea shampoo that can be used on both cats and dogs, then Flea and Tick Shampoo by Zodiac might be just what you need. The shampoo kills fleas and ticks and contains coconut conditioners to leave your pet’s coat soft and shiny. It is safe to use on kittens and puppies from 12 weeks of age.
9. Oster Flea and Tick Shampoo with Oatmeal
Key Features
Kills fleas and ticks at every developmental stage
Free from artificial colors, parabens, phosphates, alcohol, and dyes
Natural, pH-balanced, and biodegradable ingredients
Does not reduce the effectiveness of topical flea treatments
Safe to use on kittens from 12 weeks old
Oster Flea and Tick Shampoo with Oatmeal is effective on all fleas and ticks at every stage of their development. The formula contains no artificial colors and is free from alcohol, parabens, phosphates, and dyes. The ingredients are natural, pH-balanced, and biodegradable, so no harm is done to the environment. The shampoo will not negatively affect topical flea treatments and can be safely used on puppies and kittens from 12 weeks old.
Best Flea Shampoo for Cats Buying Guide
While topical flea treatments remain one of the best ways to fight flea infestations, they are not suitable for all cats. If your cat has allergies, sensitive skin, or has had a previous reaction to such treatments, then finding an effective alternative is a must. Even if you do use topical treatments, the right shampoo can add an extra layer of protection, sooth affected skin, and help prevent fleas from landing on them in the first place. In this section of the buying guide, we explore what you should look for in a good flea shampoo for kittens and cats, how to properly use such shampoos, and the benefits of taking this approach. We also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about flea shampoo for cats.
What to Look For When Buying Cat Flea Shampoo
When looking for a cat flea shampoo the most important thing to check is that the shampoo is designed for use on cats. Buying one that does not state it is for cats could mean that you are exposing your cat to ingredients that could potentially make them ill. It is also important to check the age recommendation of the shampoo. Never use a product on a kitten unless it clearly states that it is safe to do so. Very few, if any products, should be used on kittens under the age of 12 weeks. Also, check whether the product is specifically suitable for pregnant or lactating cats if your kitty falls under either category. Other things to look for include:
- Active ingredients
These are the ingredients that actually kill the fleas, ticks, and lice. The main ingredients that achieve this are pyrethrins. These can be sourced naturally from plants or come from synthesized compounds. Natural pyrethrins include rosemary and chrysanthemums and are considered to be much safer for your cat, particularly younger and smaller cats. Synthesized, inorganic pyrethrins are often listed as pyrethroids. These break down much slower than their natural counterparts and can be highly toxic. However, they are safe to use, unless your cat has an allergy to them, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Synthesized pyrethrins are considered to be more effective at killing flea eggs and larvae and providing long-lasting protection.
- Effectiveness
By its very nature, a cat flea shampoo is designed to kill fleas. However, the best and most effective flea shampoos kill fleas in all stages of their development. This means they are just as effective on larvae and eggs as they are adult fleas. Using a product that leaves the eggs behind does not break the cycle of infestation and may require several washes to complete the process. Overuse of flea shampoos can dry out your cat’s skin and damage their coat, so this is best avoided. If the shampoo contains a repellant, this is an added bonus. This reduces the risk of your cat being re-infested the moment they leave the bath.
- Conditioners
Fleas and flea bites make your cat itch and naturally their response is to scratch. This can leave their skin sore and irritated. In extreme cases, it can lead to them losing their hair and the skin becoming infected. Choosing a shampoo that contains natural conditioners can help sooth the skin and reduce the irritation caused by the bites. Such conditioners also improve the look and feel of their coats.
- Interaction with topical treatments
If you use a topical flea treatment on your cat, then you need to check on potential interactions between the topical treatment and your flea shampoo. Choose one that is suitable to use with topical treatments and follow instructions regarding how long to leave bathing your cat after applying a topical treatment.
- Additional ingredients
We all want our cats to smell lovely and be thoroughly clean after a bath. Most flea shampoos achieve this as well as killing fleas. However, be aware of the additional ingredients that are included for achieving cleaning and deodorizing. Artificial perfumes and other added ingredients can cause irritation for some cats. Knowing your cat and reading the label carefully is the best way to choose a flea shampoo that provides effective flea treatment without harm to your cat. For a wider selection of choices, check out our flea treatments for cats guide.
How To Properly Use Cat Flea Shampoo
The first step to using a cat flea shampoo properly is to read the instructions, warning, and advice carefully. Failing to take proper precautions can be harmful to your health as well as to your cat. If you have sensitive skin or are sensitive to any of the ingredients, then wear gloves and ensure the room is well ventilated.
There are two main types of cat shampoos; wet and dry. Ensure you know which you have purchased before going any further. If you have a wet shampoo, then use warm water to thoroughly wet your cat's coat. When ready place the required amount of shampoo in your hands and then apply to your cat, avoiding sensitive areas such as around the eyes. Lather the shampoo and leave on your cat for the recommended amount of time. This is usually around five minutes. Removing the shampoo before the recommended time will affect its effectiveness.
Once the time has elapsed, use warm water to rinse the shampoo off. Ensure it is completely gone before removing your cat from the bath. Now you can use a flea comb for cats or something similar to remove dead fleas and eggs and to check that the shampoo has been effective.
If you are using a dry shampoo, then there is no need to wet your cat first. Follow the instructions on the shampoo and work into your cat’s fur, avoiding the eyes and other sensitive areas. Once left for the appropriate amount of time, groom your cat as normal and dry their fur to prevent them from licking the shampoo while it is wet. No rinsing is required with these dry shampoos.
Benefits of Using Flea Shampoo for Cats
There are numerous benefits to using flea shampoo for cats. Firstly, and most importantly, good flea shampoos are an effective method of killing fleas and managing potential infestations. Flea shampoo also provides immediate relief from the effects of flea bites and it improves the condition of your cat's coat and skin.
Flea shampoo is also easy to use and can be used regularly to kill fleas, larvae, and eggs, helping to break the cycle of infestation. The active ingredients are safe for use on kittens from the age of 12 weeks and are in many cases suitable to use alongside topical treatments to provide additional peace of mind. For cats with allergies or particularly sensitive skin, there are also organic, natural shampoos available.
Our Top Pick
Our top pick is Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo. If you are looking for an effective flea shampoo that also prevents flea development, then Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor might be just what you need. The shampoo is formulated to be safe for use on sensitive skin and contains aloe, coconut extract, oatmeal, and lanolin. It is safe to use on cats and kittens from 12-weeks and can also be used safely on dogs. The shampoo is effective for fleas, flea eggs and larvae, ticks, and lice. The insect growth regulator kills and prevents flea development for up to 30 days, helping to break the flea life cycle and giving you peace of mind that your cat is fully protected.
