Whether your cat rolled in something mysterious or just needs help with itchy skin, there comes a time when even the cleanest kitty could use a bath. But with dozens of formulas out there—hypoallergenic, medicated, waterless—how do you pick the right one?
To help you decide, we tested top-rated shampoos, combed through thousands of reviews, and even shampooed our (somewhat reluctant) Snickers. Our goal? Find the best cat shampoos for every kind of feline situation. Whether you’re dealing with flaky skin, stinky fur, or a sensitive tummy, these picks deliver.
At a Glance: Quick Comparison
When (and Why) Cats Might Need a Bath
For the most part, cats are excellent self-groomers and don’t require frequent bathing. Their tongues and paws do a great job keeping their coats clean. But there are exceptions.
Cats with mobility issues, obesity, or illness may need help with hygiene. Long-haired breeds can develop mats, and adventurous indoor-outdoor cats may get into messes they can’t clean themselves. A bath might also be necessary if your cat gets into something toxic or irritating, or if they have certain skin conditions.
And of course, some breeds—like the Sphynx—need routine baths because they don’t have fur to absorb their natural oils.
Our Top Cat Shampoo Picks
Best Overall: Earthbath Hypo-Allergenic Cat Shampoo
Key Ingredients: Purified water, coconut-based cleansers, aloe vera, and olive oil squalene.
Earthbath Hypo-Allergenic Cat Shampoo is one of the most widely recommended cat shampoos for a reason. It’s made without sulfates, parabens, dyes, or artificial fragrances—so it’s safe for sensitive cats and even kittens over six weeks old. The formula is soap-free and enriched with aloe to soothe dry or itchy skin, while still giving a gentle, effective clean.
We found that it lathers easily and rinses out quickly, leaving the coat soft and clean without a lingering scent. The fragrance-free formula makes it especially good for allergy-prone or indoor cats who dislike strong odors.
What We Liked:
- Hypoallergenic and gentle for sensitive cats
- Free from sulfates, parabens, dyes, and fragrances
- Can be diluted for easier application
- Won’t wash off topical flea treatments
What We Didn’t Like:
- More expensive than some budget options
- Subtle “clean” scent may still bother very scent-sensitive cats
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earthbath, Hypoallergenic Cat Shampoo - Fragrance Free Cat Shampoo for Allergies and Itching, Made... |
$17.99 |
View on Amazon |
Best Waterless: Burt’s Bees Waterless Shampoo for Cats
Key Ingredients: Water, coco betaine, honey, beeswax, apple extract, and oatmeal.
This spray-on, no-rinse formula is perfect for cats who absolutely hate water—or for those moments when a full bath just isn’t practical. Burt’s Bees Waterless Shampoo gently cleans and softens your cat’s coat while leaving behind a light, natural scent.
It’s pH balanced for cats, made without sulfates or harsh chemicals, and can be used alongside flea treatments. Just spritz, rub in, and towel dry. Snickers didn’t mind the spray nearly as much as we expected, and it left her coat feeling fresh between baths.
What We Liked:
- No-rinse formula—great for bath-averse cats
- Light, natural fragrance
- Affordable and widely available
What We Didn’t Like:
- Doesn’t remove deep grime or odors
- Some cats dislike the spray sound
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Burt's Bees for Pets Waterless Cat Grooming Spray with Shea Butter and Honey, 99.3% Natural Origin... |
$17.82 |
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Best Flea/Tick: TropiClean Natural Flea + Tick Cat Shampoo
Key Ingredients: Clove oil, lemongrass oil, cedarwood oil, cinnamon oil.
If you need a shampoo that pulls double-duty against fleas and ticks, TropiClean’s formula is both natural and effective. It uses essential oils to kill and repel pests—without harsh chemicals like pyrethrins or permethrins, which are dangerous for cats.
The strong herbal scent may be a bit much for some people (and cats), but it’s a safer choice than traditional flea shampoos. We found it especially helpful after outdoor adventures or during flea season.
What We Liked:
- Plant-based flea and tick protection
- No synthetic pesticides
- Safe for cats over 12 weeks old
What We Didn’t Like:
- Very strong scent
- Not for kittens under 12 weeks
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TropiClean Gentle Flea Shampoo for Cats, Flea and Tick Prevention for Cats, Powerful & Natural... |
$16.99 |
View on Amazon |
Best Budget: Hartz Groomer’s Best Hairball Control Shampoo
Key Ingredients: Water, sodium laureth sulfate, aloe, and conditioners.
For under $5, this shampoo does a decent job cleaning your cat’s coat while helping reduce loose fur and future hairballs. It’s widely available, has a light scent, and contains added conditioners to keep the coat soft.
It isn’t as natural or gentle as some other options, but for the price, it’s a solid pick—especially if you have multiple cats or are trying to stick to a budget.
What We Liked:
- Very affordable
- Light, fresh scent
- Decent hairball control for the price
What We Didn’t Like:
- Contains sulfates and artificial fragrance
- Not the best for sensitive skin
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HARTZ Groomer's Best Cat Shampoo, Extra Gentle Hairball Control, 15 Ounces |
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Best Medicated: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Medicated Shampoo
Key Ingredients: Coal tar, salicylic acid, micronized sulfur, oatmeal, allantoin.
If your cat has dandruff, ringworm, or skin infections, this is one of the most powerful over-the-counter options available. It’s a medicated formula designed to treat a variety of dermatological conditions, but still gentle enough to soothe irritated skin.
We found it helpful for occasional flare-ups, but always recommend checking with your vet before using medicated shampoos long-term.
What We Liked:
- Veterinary-strength ingredients
- Affordable for a medicated product
- Can be used weekly during flare-ups
What We Didn’t Like:
- Strong medicinal smell
- Not for regular use unless directed by a vet
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Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo for Dogs & Cats, 16 Fl... |
$8.97 |
View on Amazon |
What to Look for in a Cat Shampoo
Not all cat shampoos are created equal. Ideally, you’ll want a formula that’s free from sulfates, parabens, artificial dyes, and drying alcohols. These can irritate your cat’s sensitive skin or strip away natural oils.
Instead, prioritize gentle, soothing ingredients like aloe vera, oatmeal, coconut oil, or chamomile. These help nourish the skin and keep your cat comfortable during and after bath time. If your cat has allergies or dry, flaky skin, consider a hypoallergenic or moisturizing shampoo specifically designed for sensitive pets.
Also, think about your cat’s coat type. Long-haired cats may benefit from detangling ingredients, while short-haired breeds usually need something lighter. And if your cat hates water? A no-rinse or waterless formula might be your best bet.
Do You Really Need a Cat-Specific Shampoo?
Yes, and here’s why: cats have thinner, more delicate skin than dogs or humans. Human shampoos—even those labeled “gentle” or “baby”—can throw off a cat’s skin pH and lead to dryness, flaking, or itchiness.
Even many dog shampoos are too harsh for feline skin. Some contain ingredients like permethrin that are safe for dogs but toxic to cats. That’s why it’s always safest to stick with products made specifically for felines, even if it means keeping two separate bottles under the sink.
Is There a Cat Shampoo That’s Truly “Best”?
The best cat shampoo really depends on your cat’s needs—whether they struggle with allergies, fleas, dry skin, or just need a freshen-up between baths. All of the picks above are safe, well-reviewed, and Snickers-approved. But if you’re simply looking for a gentle, go-to option for regular use, we recommend the Earthbath Hypo-Allergenic Cat Shampoo. Just be sure to avoid human shampoos and always follow label instructions. Your kitty (and your nose) will thank you.
Cat Shampoo FAQs
How often should I bathe my cat?
For most cats, a full bath isn’t needed more than every 4–6 weeks. However, long-haired breeds, older cats with mobility issues, or cats with skin problems may benefit from more frequent baths using a gentle shampoo.
Can I use human or baby shampoo on my cat?
No — human shampoos (even baby ones) aren’t pH-balanced for cats and can irritate their skin. Always use a shampoo made specifically for felines.
Which cat shampoo is best for dandruff or dry skin?
The Earthbath Hypo‑Allergenic Cat Shampoo is a great choice for dandruff‑prone or itchy skin. It’s fragrance‑free, gentle, and contains aloe vera to soothe dryness.
Are waterless shampoos safe for cats?
Yes — most waterless cat shampoos are safe as long as they’re made for pets. They’re great for spot cleaning or nervous cats that don’t tolerate water, but they shouldn’t replace regular bathing if your cat has specific skin conditions.
Can I use flea shampoo on a kitten?
Always check the label — many flea shampoos are not safe for kittens under 12 weeks. Instead, look for vet-recommended options or gentle alternatives made for young cats.
