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14 Best Cat Shampoos In The Uk

Just as the selection of human shampoos has grown in recent years, so has the selection of cat shampoos.

Shampoos with anti-flea treatments and those derived from natural ingredients are available in addition to normal shampoos.

For sensitive cats, there are hypoallergenic shampoos, as well as rinse-free, waterless, and even shampoo bars.

Because selecting the best cat shampoo is critical, BestForPets (bestforpets.org) has compiled reviews of %product_count% of the best cat shampoos in the UK and provided a guide to assist you in selecting the best selection.

Reviews

Earthbath Hypo-Allergenic Cat Shampoo – Overall Winner
 

  • Lifestage: All
  • Shampoo formula: liquid
  • Scent: Unscented
  • 472 millilitres in volume

Earthbath Hypo-Allergenic Fragrance Free Cat Shampoo is a hypoallergenic liquid shampoo perfect for kittens, cats, and elderly cats with sensitive skin and allergies.

It cleans and conditions with coconut-based cleansers, contains aloe vera to soften the coat and soothe the skin, and is supplemented with vitamins A, B, D, and E.

The formula is pH adjusted for cats, who have different pH requirements than humans, and it can be diluted at a 10 part water to 1 part shampoo ratio, which is useful if you need to bathe a kitten and want to ensure it is gentle on the skin of a young cat.

The shampoo is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. It also works with anti-flea treatments and does not wash them away, making it the greatest all-around cat shampoo in the UK.

However, because Earthbath Hypo-Allergenic Fragrance Free Cat Shampoo is unscented, it may not be the greatest choice if you’re searching for a shampoo to disguise a strong odor.

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Will not wash away flea and tick treatments
  • Can be diluted further

Cons

  • It is possible that it will not be effective against stains and foul odors.

 

Best Value Mikki Cat and Kitten Shampoo
 

  • Lifestage: All
  • Shampoo formula: liquid
  • Scent: Pear
  • 250 millilitres in volume

Kitten shampoo has many of the same advantages as baby shampoo. It is gentler and should have a tear-free recipe, so it will not stress out your young kitten or produce any harmful side effects.

It must, however, be excellent at cleaning and conditioning their coat.

Mikki Cat And Kitten Shampoo is appropriate for both kittens and adults, however because it produces less lather, it is particularly aimed at kittens.

Less rinsing means less stress, and the gentle formula will not bother sensitive skin. It has a fresh pear aroma that is also moderate and not overbearing.

It is also very cheap and suitable for both adult cats and kittens, making it the finest cat shampoo for the money in the UK.

It is a gentle shampoo that is thinner than other shampoos, so you may need to use extra if your kitty requires a wash.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Adult cats and kittens are welcome.
  • The aroma of pears is pleasant but not overpowering.
  • Less lather equals less rinsing and stress.

Cons

  • Texture is really thin.

 

Premium Nootie Waterless Cat Shampoo Wipes
 

  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Wipes as shampoo
  • Cherry Blossom scent
  • 70 wipes in total

No matter how gentle a shampoo you use, some cats simply cannot stand being bathed, even if you started them as a kitten.

There may be times when you are unable to bathe your cat. For example, if you need to prevent getting particular sections of your cat wet while traveling.

In these circumstances, Nootie Waterless Shampoo Wipes For Dogs & Cats are a feasible alternative. They are pH calibrated for cats and contain oatmeal and aloe vera to clean and condition the coat.

They have a cherry blossom aroma and there is no need to rinse your kitty after wiping. The scent is pretty strong and smells more chemically than naturally.

While a long-lasting perfume is beneficial if you have a stinky cat, it might be overbearing.

Because it may take a few wipes to clean your cat, these are more expensive than a bottle of shampoo, but they are more convenient and effective than most cat wipes.

Pros

  • Long-lasting fragrance
  • There’s no need to rinse.
  • Perfect for a fast clean

Cons

  • More costly than a bottle of shampoo
  • The wipes smell chemically.

Natural Kitten Shampoo Espree – Best for Kittens
 

  • Lifestage: Kitten
  • Shampoo formula: liquid
  • Baby Powder scent
  • 354 millilitres in volume

Espree Natural Kitten Shampoo mixes aloe and jojoba to create a hypoallergenic shampoo with a tear-free recipe that is ideal for kittens and sensitive cats who respond negatively to chemical-based shampoos.

Aloe not only cleans and conditions the coat, but it can also relieve and soothe irritation, rashes, and sensitivity caused by the sun or other environmental factors.

This is a wet shampoo that is reasonably priced, and Espree also manufactures a wipe version of their cat shampoo. The shampoo has a baby powder aroma, which may be somewhat overpowering at maximum dosage.

Espree Natural Kitten Shampoo, on the other hand, may be diluted at a ratio of up to 16 parts water to 1 part shampoo, which not only makes the shampoo last longer but also dilutes the powerful smell while still cleaning and cleansing all but the dirtiest kittens.

Pros

  • Kittens can use the tear-free formula.
  • It is highly diluted.
  • While scrubbing and cleansing, aloe calms inflamed skin.

Cons

  • The strong fragrance of baby powder might be unpleasant.

 

Feline Great Cat Shampoo by Animology
 

  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Shampoo formula: liquid
  • Scent: Peach
  • 250 millilitres in volume

Animology Feline Great Shampoo contains a built-in conditioner and is paraben-free. It contains aloe vera extract, which helps improve the quality of your cat’s coat while also relieving any skin irritation caused by skin disorders or over-grooming.

According to Animology, the shampoo is lightweight, which decreases the time it takes to bathe your cat and, as a result, the amount of stress you both have to endure. According to Animology, the solution can also aid with dandruff.

The shampoo is reasonably priced, and it has a lovely peach scent that fades slightly once applied to the cat. It does not lather easily because it is designed for faster bathing.

Owners of long-haired cats, in particular, will find that they need to use more shampoo to obtain a good, thorough clean.

Pros

  • Pleasant peach aroma
  • Cleans and conditions
  • Shorter bathing sessions result from less lather.

Cons

  • There isn’t much lather.
  • The peach smell is not as powerful on the cat as it is in the bottle.

 

TropiClean 2-in-1 Luxury Cat Shampoo
 

  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Shampoo formula: liquid
  • Papaya and Coconut scent
  • Volume: 3.78L

TropiClean Shampoo For Pets is a soap, paraben, and dye-free shampoo with a papaya and coconut aroma. It claims to clean, moisturize, and condition the coat and skin of cats and dogs and is pH balanced.

The shampoo cleans with coconut cleanser, oatmeal, and salt and smells naturally with papaya. This is a huge bottle, containing 3.78 litres, which helps to greatly minimize the cost.

It is an excellent solution for parents of large and extended pet families, as well as professional groomers and grooming businesses, because it is suitable for dogs and cats.

However, the natural aroma does not stay long and will require a smaller container to siphon the shampoo into. Using this shampoo, it will also take a number of washes to eliminate any persistent dirt.

Pros

  • Natural foods such as coconut, papaya, and oats were used.
  • Bottle of 78 litres
  • It is safe to use on both dogs and cats.

Cons

  • A big bottle is inconvenient.
  • The natural aroma fades quickly.
  • For obstinate filth, it takes a few of washing.

 

Natural Waterless Cat Bath Shampoo by Vet’s Best
 

  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Foaming shampoo
  • Scent: Chamomile
  • 150 millilitres in volume

Some cats are particularly afraid of water, and no amount of coaxing or layers of clothing will make bath time possible. However, if your cat need cleaning, there is still an option.

Waterless shampoo is a foam-like shampoo that is applied to the cat’s coat without first wetting or dampening it. It is left in and does not need to be rinsed out.

Vet’s Best Natural Waterless Cat Bath is a waterless foam shampoo containing vitamin E, aloe vera, and oats, as well as chamomile, which has relaxing properties. This is a little bottle, and it is a costly alternative.

In addition to being pricey, the shampoo contains certain contentious components, such as sodium laureth sulphate, which can cause skin irritation in some cats. The shampoo may also leave behind an oily residue.

Pros

  • No water is required.
  • Vitamin E, aloe, and oats are among the ingredients.
  • Chamomile was added for its relaxing properties.

Cons

  • Expensive
  • It can be greasy.
  • Ingredients under scrutiny

 

Vet Cat Flea Cleansing Cat Shampoo by JVP Johnsons
 

  • Lifestage: All
  • Shampoo formula: liquid
  • Scent: Citrus
  • 200 millilitres in volume

Fleas are an issue that almost all cat and dog owners have had to deal with at some point in their lives. They are an annoyance to people and can cause major skin problems in your cat. It is critical to receive regular and effective treatment.

JVP Johnsons Vet Cat Flea Cleaning Shampoo is a flea shampoo with a citrus component that cleans as well as kills fleas. The shampoo is pricey, but it does a wonderful job of washing cats and leaving them looking nice.

However, the citrus and natural herb aroma is quite light and short-lived, and the shampoo alone will not address most flea issues. It will almost certainly need to be combined with a flea medication, flea collar, or another option.

Pros

  • Natural odor
  • Developed to combat fleas

Cons

  • It will not kill fleas on its own.
  • Expensive
  • The scent does not last long.

 

Glamour Puss Cat Shampoo by Animology
 

  • Lifestage: All
  • Shampoo form: spray
  • Scent: Peach
  • 250 millilitres in volume

Animology Glamour Puss Cat Shampoo is a spray bottle of no-rinse, waterless shampoo. Simply spray the shampoo on your cat’s coat, groom it through, and then allow it to dry naturally.

The water-free washing method is ideal for cats who dislike baths or showers, but it does not produce as clean a result. The shampoo contains aloe vera extract and leaves your cat with a natural peach aroma.

Although the shampoo is reasonably priced, it takes more to guarantee that your cat is properly covered, making it an expensive means of bathing. And, while the peach smell is lovely, it rapidly fades.

Pros

  • Rinse-free formula
  • The scent of peach is pleasant.

Cons

  • A lot of effort is required to remove stains and tenacious grime.
  • The smell of peaches fades rapidly.
  • It is costly since a large amount of product is required.

 

Animigo Cat Flea and Tick Shampoo
 

  • Lifestage: Adult
  • Shampoo formula: liquid
  • Scent: Chamomile
  • 500 millilitres in volume

Animigo Flea & Tick Shampoo is a liquid shampoo that kills fleas and ticks while also soothing itchy skin and cleansing and conditioning the coat.

Oatmeal, coconut oil, avocado oil, tea tree oil, and chamomile are among the ingredients. Animigo says that the mixture wipes away fleas and ticks without the use of potentially dangerous or irritating chemicals.

The shampoo is said to be simple to rinse. It is more expensive than most of the other shampoos on the list, and while it is helpful at soothing irritated skin, it is less successful at killing and getting rid of fleas and ticks.

As a result, for the best benefits, it will need to be coupled with other treatments.

Pros

  • Shampoo for easy rinsing
  • Skin irritation is relieved.

Cons

  • It’s quite pricey.
  • Not very effective at killing fleas and ticks.

Choosing the Best Cat Shampoo in the UK: A Buyer's Guide

Cats are typically thought to be clean animals. They put in a lot of effort to groom themselves and, in most circumstances, they can keep themselves clean.

However, some cats enjoy rolling about in dirt, while others want to avoid the burden.

Unless your veterinarian advises otherwise, bathing your cat every few months is typically regarded safe, however some breeds may require more regular washes.

When bathing them, make sure you use a high-quality cat shampoo rather than human shampoo. Human shampoo not only cleans but also deodorizes your cat’s coat.

Some shampoos even claim to eliminate fleas and ticks, as well as heal inflamed and itchy skin.

Is it necessary to shampoo cats?

Most cats are extremely competent at grooming themselves, but there are instances when they require assistance.

If your cat is unable to clean itself completely or correctly, or if they become really unclean, they will require shampooing much like humans do.

Too much shampooing and bathing, on the other hand, might cause more harm than good by stripping the protective oils from your cat’s coat, resulting in dry skin and matted fur.

Only wash your cat when absolutely essential or as directed by your veterinarian.

Shampoo Kind

The following are the most common varieties of cat shampoo:

Traditional shampoo is liquid shampoo. It is a liquid that must be applied on your cat when they are wet. It should lather up and be massaged through the cat’s coat from tip to root before being properly rinsed out.

This type of shampoo is the most effective because the foam it produces penetrates deep into the roots. However, if you have a water-averse cat, using a liquid shampoo may be impossible.

Foam shampoo is applied to a dry cat, groomed through, and then allowed to air dry.

The biggest advantage of using this form of shampoo is that you don’t have to try submerging your cat in the bath, which can be a terrifying and unpleasant process for everyone involved.

Some foam shampoos, on the other hand, can leave an oily or greasy behind, which is somewhat counterproductive. Spray shampoo is an additional option. This is often applied dry and must be groomed into the coat.

Brushing the spray shampoo ensures that it reaches the roots and provides a thorough and deep clean. Spray shampoos can be costly because more shampoo is need to be applied.

Shampoo wipes are disposable pieces of fabric that have been covered in a shampoo or other cleaning solution. Because you can stroke your cat with them, they are perfect for untrusting cats.

They can be a decent solution for traveling or spot cleaning a stain, but they are less effective than other methods because it is difficult to get to the base of your cat’s coat.

Hypoallergenic Shampoo: Hypoallergenic shampoos contain fewer well-known allergens, despite the fact that cats, like humans, can be allergic to nearly any substance or ingredient.

Because chemical chemicals are more likely to evoke a negative physiological response from your cat, the term hypoallergenic is occasionally used to describe shampoos that contain natural ingredients.

Hypoallergenic shampoos are ideal for cats with sensitive skin or in poor coat condition.

Flea Shampoo: Fleas are a bother. They can be uncomfortable and painful for both your cat and you. They can even cause anaphylactic shock.

Even if your cat isn’t allergic, persistent biting might cause overgrooming, itching, and biting. This, in turn, might result in sores and skin problems.

It is critical to treat fleas as soon as they appear. Flea shampoo contains chemicals that are designed to kill fleas and keep them from returning.

Flea shampoos are rarely successful on their own, and you may need to combine them with a spot treatment and a house treatment.

2-in-1 shampoos contain both shampoo and conditioner to clean and moisturize the hair. These should leave your cat clean and with a nice coat. They can help prevent dandruff, but they are also more expensive. Unless your cat’s coat is in desperate need of conditioning, you may find it unnecessary.

5 Cat Bathing Tips

Bathing cats can be a tricky task. However, there are several pointers that can make the experience less painful—both metaphorically and literally.

  • Start When Your Cat Is Young: If you begin bathing your cat when he or she is a kitten, there is a chance that they will develop acclimated to the treatment. However, some cats will never become accustomed to water, and most cats should not be bathed frequently.
  • Don’t Dawdle: Before grabbing the cat, make sure you have everything you need ready. Shampoo, a cup or jug, a washcloth, towels, and a fine-tooth comb are all required. The washcloth is used to clean the area around the eyes. The comb is required because your cat will groom themselves extensively once the trauma is over, and removing stray hairs can help prevent excessive furballs.
  • Obtain Assistance: Having at least two persons will make the task much easier. You can each hold the cat while the other rinses. At the very least, there will be two of you to catch the cat if it attempts a daring escape.
  • Don’t Overfill the Bath: You only need a few inches of warm water in the bath, and very few cats will enjoy more than this amount.
  • Consider Utilizing a Professional Grooming Service: If all else fails, consider using a professional grooming service. They have dealt with vicious felines before, and they have the gear and setup to get the job done swiftly and properly.

Is it OK to use human shampoo on my cat?

Human shampoo should be avoided on cats in general. If used too regularly, it can damage your cat’s fragile coat because it is made to meet the pH value of human hair rather than cat hair.

It may also contain harsh chemicals, and because your cat will lick themselves after the bath, it may create major complications.

Is Baby Shampoo Harmless to Cats?

Baby shampoo contains less chemicals and has a tear-free composition. It should not be used on a daily basis for your cat, but in an emergency, a decent grade baby shampoo should be fine.

When Should You Bathe Your Cat?

Cats are generally competent at keeping themselves clean, although they may require assistance from time to time. Bathe your cat only when absolutely required, and try to stick to the three or four-times-a-year rule.

Some breeds require more regular bathing, while others may not require a bath at all. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice first.

Is It Safe to Allow My Cat to Air Dry?

Ideally, you should towel dry your cat after a bath and keep the house warm enough for them. You want your cat to be dry as quickly as possible.

If there are two of you bathing your kitty companion, make sure your helper stays long enough for you both to get to work with the towel.

Even on the lowest setting, avoid using a hairdryer. If it’s too hot, it can cause significant injury, and in most circumstances, a hairdryer will startle a cat, making bathing them even more difficult the next time they roll in anything disgusting.

Conclusion

Cat shampoo is made in a different way than human shampoo. It’s intended for the relatively neutral pH of a cat’s coat, although it can take numerous forms.

BestForPets‘ (bestforpets.org) reviews and guide to the best cat shampoos in the UK should have helped you figure out which one is best for your cat. 

Earthbath Hypoallergenic Shampoo was shown to be gentle on cats’ coats and may be diluted to make it even gentler, making it the best overall choice.

Mikki Cat And Kitten Shampoo, while a touch thin, is a great value and has a pleasant, albeit fleeting, pear scent.

Author Image

Dr. Deborah Fletcher

Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.

Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher

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