1. Furminator deShedding Tool
Key Features
Deshedding brush available in large and small, for long or short hair
Stainless steel edge specially designed to strip away loose hair and undercoat
Features an easy to use release mechanism
Can be used without inflicting damage to your cat’s coat or skin
Starting off our list is Furminator’s specialized deshedding brush. Available in both large and small sizes, and boasting a durable stainless steel edge, this furminator for cats makes brushing out excess hair a simple and safe process.
Simply run the cat brush over your feline’s fur to remove loose hair and undercoat. Between strokes, the patented FURejector button releases the accumulated hair from the brush, reducing the need for time consuming and awkward cleaning procedures. Be sure to choose the correct version of the brush for your kitty – Furminator produce versions specifically designed for either long or short hair.
Pros
Versions available to meet any cat’s requirements
Quality stainless steel edge is built to last
FURejector button makes removing hair from the brush easy
Specialized design removes dead hair to reduce shedding, improve coat health, and decrease the risk of fur balls
Cons
Specialized deshedding design is less versatile than some on the market
Relatively large initial investment
2. Pet Neat Cat Grooming Brush
Key Features
Cat and dog deshedding brush
Stainless steel edge
Detachable head for easier cleaning
Easy-grip handle
The next cat grooming brush to earn a spot on our list is this deshedding tool by Pets Neat. This easy to use device removes up to 95% of your cat’s dead hair and tangles, within as little as 10 minutes of grooming.
The durable deshedding brush features a 100mm stainless steel edge, designed for safe and accurate dead hair removal. This high quality blade, along with an easy grip handle, makes it simple and comfortable to groom your cat without the hassle. When you’re done, the brush’s detachable head makes clearing out the hair a breeze. To help you get the most out of their brush, Pets Neat have included a downloadable e-book full of grooming tips and tricks with every purchase.
Pros
Affordable deshedding tool
Made from high quality stainless steel
Suitable for both cats and dogs
Great for busy owners – removes up to 95% of dead hair and tangles in just 10 minutes
Comfortable to use
Cons
Available in once size only – may be too large for smaller cats
Does not feature the hair eject button Furminator products are known for
Design is specialized for deshedding, reducing versatility
3. Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush
Key Features
Slicker brush suitable for both cats and dogs
Removes loose hair, tangles, dirt, and dander from your pet’s coat
Fine wire bristles penetrate deep into the coat
Virtually self cleaning, as bristles retract allowing gathered hair to drop away
The first cat slicker brush to make our list is this self-cleaning design by Hertzko. Their clever brush is designed to remove loose fur, dirt, and dander from your cat’s fur, leaving behind a smooth and fresh-looking coat.
The fine, bent wire bristles penetrate deep within the coat, reaching the underlayer without irritation. The self-cleaning design allows users to freshen up the brush with ease, too: at the click of a button the bristles retract, allowing hair to be deposited with a gentle brush of the hand.
Pros
Fine wire bristles remove loose hair, dander and dirt from pets’ coats, leaving behind a healthy, shiny appearance
Slicker brushes are more versatile than their deshedding counterparts
Retractable bristles make for easy cleaning
Penetrates deep into the coat without causing skin irritation
Cons
Wire bristles may be too widely spaced for some fine-hair tangles
Likely to remove less loose hair than a deshedding brush
4. Safari Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Key Features
Slicker brush suitable for both long and short haired cats
Stainless steel bristles work their way deep into your cat’s coat
Bristles retreat inside the brush for easy cleaning
Features an ergonomic handle that’s comfortable to grip
The next slicker brush to make our list is this high quality but budget friendly offering from Safari. Their self-cleaning slicker brush removes loose hair and dirt with ease. When you’re done, the bristles can retract back inside the brush to help hair slide free.
The stainless steel pins gently work their way into your cat’s coat to detangle and speed along the shedding process, leaving behind a clean and shiny appearance. The brush also features an easy grip handle, making it comfortable to use regularly.
Pros
Budget-friendly but high quality
Virtually self-cleaning
Easily removes loose fur, dander, and dirt from your cat’s coat
Versatile enough for use on most cat coats
Cons
Bristles bend slightly out of place over time
Bristles can be a little sharp, making the brush unsuitable for cats with sensitive skin
5. Glendan Slicker Pet Grooming Brush
Key Features
Slicker brush suitable for both cats and dogs
Suitable for both long and short hair
Removes loose hair, dirt, danger and mats
Promotes healthy skin
Features a rotating hear
Glendan’s grooming brush is a versatile affair. It’s suitable for cats and dogs, and is equally at home brushing long and short hair. Each bristle features a rounded pinhead, preventing it from irritating delicate pet skin, even as reaches deep within their coat.
The brush is designed to remove loose hair, dander, and dirt. It can also be used to tease out mats and knots, leaving your kitty with an enviably healthy coat. The rotating head makes for comfortable brushing no matter what angle you’re coming from, while an anti-slip handle helps to prevent uncomfortable tugging. Each brush is also backed by a 90 day warranty.
Pros
Tipped bristles are ideal for cats with sensitive skin
Versatile enough for use on both cats and dogs, of all hair lengths
Head rotates 360 degrees, for comfortable grooming from any angle
Anti-slip handle provides excellent control
Backed by a 90 day warranty
Cons
No easy-clean feature
Bristles may be too widely spaced for some tangles
6. Safari Soft Bristle Brush for Cats
Key Features
Soft bristle brush suitable for cat grooming
Flexible bristles remove loose hair, dirt, and dander from your cat’s coat
Handle is easy to grip
Removes loose hair, dander, and dirt
Evenly distributes natural oils through your cat’s coat
Safari have nabbed a second spot on our list thanks to their soft bristle brush. Specially designed for younger, or more sensitive felines, its gentle and flexible bristles can remove dirt and loose hair from the coat without the intensity of a wire-bristled design.
This option may well be the best brush for long haired cats. The soft bristles are packed more tightly than their wire counterparts would be, allowing them to tease out even the smallest and most stubborn knots. Safari’s soft bristled brush is also a great option for cats who aren’t fond or grooming, or are new to the experience. Unlike other brushes, the soft nylon bristles also have the advantage of distributing natural oils throughout the coat for extra shine/ It’s comfortable for owners to use, too, featuring an ergonomically shaped wooden handle complete with strategically placed rubber grips.
Pros
Ideal for long-haired cats
Perfect for cats with sensitive skin, or an aversion to grooming
The only style of brush to evenly distribute natural oils through a cat’s coat
Easy to grip handle
Cons
Bristles do not perform deshedding as well as their steel and wire counterparts
May struggle to tease out knots in thicker fur
Grooming with a soft bristled brush can be more time consuming
7. DakPets Deshedding Brush for Cats
Key Features
Deshedding brush suitable for cats and dogs
Available in three fun colors
Features a replaceable stainless steel edge
Reduces pet shedding by up to 95%
Detachable head for easier cleaning
The next item to make out list is DakPet’s deshedding brush. Available in three fun colors, it’s sure to liven up any grooming kit. The brush was developed with the help of pet grooming experts, and can reduce shedding by up to 95% with regular use. As well as removing excess hair, the brush will also tackle dander and debris; leaving coats healthy and soft.
Regular grooming with the brush’s fine, stainless steel teeth also prevents pests such as fleas, mites, and ticks from making their home in your cat’s coat. The brush also features a replaceable steel blade, prolonging its life and helping to reduce waste.
Pros
Almost completely eliminates shedding
Also tackles mats and tangler, dander, and dirt
Easy to clean design
Replaceable blade significantly increases the product’s life, making it more eco-friendly
Helps keep pests such as mites, ticks, and fleas, off your pet’s fur
Cons
Fine teeth may irritate sensitive skin
Pets who are inexperienced with grooming may find being brushed with this tool uncomfortable
Developed specifically for deshedding, reducing versatility
8. Evriholder Duo 2-Sided Lint Brush
Key Features
Double sided brush for pet grooming and pet hair removal
Thick bristles on one side remove loose hair and dirt from your cat’s coat
Fine bristles on the opposite side sweep up hair from soft furnishings and clothes
Suitable for use on both cat and dog coats
If versatility is your number one concern, Evriholder’s two-in-one grooming brush could be the perfect tool for you. On one side, are a set of thick bristles designed to safely and effectively remove excess hair and dirt from your furry friend’s coat. On the other side, a fine, soft brush removes lint and stray hairs from clothing, soft furnishings, and your pet’s sleeping spot.
Gathering up cat hair can be a real chore, but the specially designed rubberized bristles on this brush make the task far easier. Owners say their pets love the feel of this handy and budget-friendly little tool.
Pros
Highly versatile – great to keep around for cleaning up post-grooming session
Budget friendly
Softer bristles make grooming more comfortable for flightier pets
A less wasteful alternative to disposable lint rollers
Cons
Less effective loose hair removal than deshedding brushes and slicker brushes
Relatively small surface area for brushing
9. Kong Grooming Brush for Cats
Key Features
Soft rubber grooming brush for cats
Removes excess hair
Ideal for skittish cats and kittens
Promotes bonding between owner and cat
Although they’re better known for their innovative dog puzzles, KONG are another strong contender for the best cat brush. Their unique Zoom Groom brush features a fun, cat-shaped design, that’s easy to grip for all-over grooming.
The brush’s gentle but effective rubber bristles attract loose hair like a magnet, removing it from your cat’s coat without causing them any discomfort. Their soft feel makes this brush an ideal option for cats who are new to grooming, kitties with sensitive skin, and young kittens. Cats love the feeling of being brushed with KONG’s device, and regular grooming sessions can promote bonding for life.
Pros
Soft, large bristles are gentle even on sensitive skin
Fun, cat-shaped design
Helps remove excess hair
Cats love the sensation
Cons
Less effective loose hair removal than other brushes
Does not tackle dirt and dander very effectively
Wide spaced bristles struggle to tease out knots
10. Safari Pet Products Flea Comb for Cats
Key Features
Fine-toothed flea and tick comb for cats
Chemical-free flea and tick solution
Pulls out both adult pests and their eggs
Durable and simple to use
Last, but not least, is Safari’s quality flea comb. It may not be a tool you hope to use often, but keeping a reliable flea comb on hand is essential for spotting and treating the little blighters that can make themselves at home in your feline’s coat.
The flea comb is ideal for the treatment and prevention of fleas, ticks, and mites. Its narrowly spaced, steel teeth root out both adult and juvenile pests, as well as their eggs. With this thorough treatment, you can rest assured that the fleas are gone for good. This simple but effective flea and tick solution precludes the need for harsh chemicals, and stops fleas and ticks in their tracks.
Pros
Chemical-free solution for ticks and fleas on your cat
Fine teeth effectively pull out both adults and eggs
Regular flea check-ups promote healthy skin and coat
Budget friendly
Cons
Not suitable for day to day grooming
Time consuming flea and tick removal method
Best Brush For Cats Buying Guide & FAQ
These cat brushes are the best of the best, and we hope our top 10 list has something for every feline’s needs. To help you understand which brush is best for you and your kitty, we’ve also compiled the handy buying guide below.
With grooming tips a-plenty, you’ll be getting the most out of your new brush in no time at all - good luck!
What to Look for in a Cat Brush
Which cat brush you ultimately choose will depend a lot on your cat’s individual needs. To help you decide, we’ve run through some key factors to bear in mind:
- Your Cat’s Hair
The first thing to bear in mind when selecting a brush for your cat is exactly what type of hair you’ll be brushing. Short haired breeds are more likely to benefit from rigid, steel or wire bristles, whereas long haired felines may find this type of brush tugs too much, and prefer a soft, nylon bristle option. If in doubt, check the manufacturer’s advice - many brushes are suitable for both long and short haired cats.
- Your Cat’s Temperament
If your cat is skittish, or just doesn’t enjoy grooming, chances are they won’t take kindly to brushes that tug. For cats with this sort of temperament, select a brush with soft bristles. This is also a good option if your kitty has sensitive skin, as metal bristles can irritate their skin.
- Bristle Type
We’ve already alluded to the different types of bristle above, but it bears repeating. Bristle type is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a brush for your cat. We’ll talk about bristle type, and what it means for your cat, in more detail later.
- Ease of Use
Finally, when choosing a cat brush it’s important to find one that’s comfortable and easy to use. Look out for features that facilitate easy cleaning, such as retractable bristles, handles that are comfortable to grip, or a rotating head.
Why You Should Brush Your Cat
Brushing your cat regularly comes with a number of benefits:
- Brushing your cat significantly reduces shedding, protecting your home from stray hairs
- By removing excess hair from your cat, the risk of fur balls is hugely reduced
- Grooming your cat promotes bonding between pet and owner
- Regular brushing removes dirt and dander from your cat’s coat
- Brushing your cat promotes blood circulation and healthy skin
- Grooming your cat provides a great opportunity for flea and tick spotting
- Some brushes help to evenly distribute oil throughout your cat’s coat
- Regular brushing helps to prevent tangles and mats from forming
Head over to our review of Cat Food for Hairballs for more options.
Types of Cat Brushes
When selecting a cat brush, you’ll have a few different choices - different types of brush are good for different functions:
- Deshedding Brush
If you’re looking for the best cat brush for shedding, deshedding brushes are the best option. They’re specifically designed for stripping excess fur out of your cat’s coat, so it doesn’t end up on your furniture. Stripping away dead hair like this is also a great way to prevent kitties from getting hairballs. Although hairballs are a fairly common occurrence, they can be dangerous - potentially blocking your cat’s intestinal tract. Bear in mind that deshedding brushes are best for felines already comfortable with grooming, because the sensation of the narrowly spaced teeth running through the coat can be intense.
- Soft Bristle Brush
These make great long hair cat brushes. Their soft and flexible bristles are typically made from nylon or boar’s hair, and they’re great for detangling hair gently. Like most cat brushes, they also strip away dead hair and dander, while also removing dirt from the coat. One advantage peculiar to these brushes is their ability to evenly spread your cat’s natural oils throughout the coat. This prevents oils from building up in one place, and leaves the coat looking especially soft and shiny. Soft brushes are usually the best option for cats who don’t like grooming, or have sensitive skin, since they tug less than other options.
- Slicker Brush
In terms of bristle stiffness, the slicker brush falls somewhere between soft brushes and deshedding brushes. They feature fairly close knit wire bristles, usually topped with a pinhead to prevent them from scratching your cat’s skin. Slicker brushes are versatile enough to be used on the coats of both cats and dogs, making them ideal for households with multiple pets. They remove excess fur, dirt, and dander, and can also be used to tease out mats and knots. Most cats and dogs will find this kind of brush comfortable against their skin.
- Rubber Brush
Number nine on our list is a good example of this kind of brush. They feature soft rubber bristles, spaced quite widely, which many cats will find more comfortable to be brushed with than other styles. The surface of these bristles clings to cat hair, helping to strip out the excess. However, since the bristles are not very rigid, they’re unlikely to penetrate very deep into your cat’s coat.
- Flea and Tick Comb
Finally, we should mention the flea and tick comb. This specialized piece of grooming equipment has many teeth packed closely together, allowing you to tease apart single hairs, and pull out any fleas and ticks. Grooming with this kind of comb regularly would be incredibly time consuming, but it’s a good idea to check over your cat for these pests and their eggs regularly. If you are looking for more options, check out our guide on flea combs for cats.
Tips For Grooming A Cat Who Hates Being Brushed
Grooming can be an enjoyable experience for your feline friend, but unfortunately not all cats feel this way! If you do have a reluctant cat, you can try the following tips:
- Allow your cat to simply interact with the grooming brush, without actually brushing them, to help disperse any fear associated with the object
- Build up grooming time gradually, brushing for just a minute at first, so your cat can become used to the sensation over time
- Foster positive associations with grooming by providing treats and praise whenever you brush them
- Try a cat calming product just prior to brushing, to help them feel more relaxed about the process
- Consider using a pair of cat grooming mittens instead of a brush - this will feel more like petting, and cats who hate brushes may feel comfortable with the sensation
