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11 Best Cat Shampoos for Shedding – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks

Sophie Herlihy

By Sophie Herlihy

wet cat in the bathtub having shower

Our pet cats offer us endless benefits: early morning serenades, mice for breakfast, and a furniture redesign. Just kidding! We love our cats for their love, loyalty, and companionship. But having cats means we also have cat fur at home.

Most cat breeds will shed, especially as the seasons change and their undercoat adapt to changing temperatures. It can be tiresome to vacuum every day or sneeze when you get a face full of cat hair. Managing your cat’s shed is key to reducing the mess in the home and promoting a healthy shed.

While bathing a cat is not always a pleasant experience, baths can help remove loose shed hair, and nourishing shampoos can help restore the skin and coat vitality.  To help you out, we have hand-picked our favorite shampoos for de-shedding, each backed with genuine reviews.

 

hepper cat paw divider

A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo
  • Long-lasting aloe vera and cucumber scent
  • Free from soaps, glutens, dyes, DEA, sulfates, and phthalates
  • soothing colloidal oatmeal formula
  • Second place
    EZ Groom Filthy Beast Pet Shampoo EZ Groom Filthy Beast Pet Shampoo
  • Only requires a small amount for lather
  • Detangles and de-mats
  • Tearless (gentle on the eyes)
  • Third place
    TropiClean OxyMed Treatment Rinse TropiClean OxyMed Treatment Rinse
  • Medicated for skin irritations
  • Oatmeal, chamomile, and aloe for soothing
  • Fatty acids for skin and coat vitality
  • Envirogroom Natural De-shed Envirogroom Natural De-shed
  • Safe for all ages
  • Limited and natural ingredient list
  • Soy protein restores damaged follicles
  • Earthbath Shed Control Pet Shampoo Earthbath Shed Control Pet Shampoo
  • Paraben and phosphate-free
  • Eco-friendly
  • Removes shed, dander, and allergens
  • The 11 Best Cat Shampoos for Shedding

    1. Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo – Best Overall

    Chartreux cat with towels and hepper oatmeal shampoo
    Image Credit: Hepper

     

    Size: 16 oz
    Scent: Aloe and Cucumber scent

    Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is this year’s pick for the best overall cat shampoo for shedding. It balances eco-friendly and naturally derived ingredients with effectiveness.

    It targets not only the shedding issue but dryness and allergens in your cat’s fur, helping to keep their skin and coat healthy. The shampoo is full of hydrating, natural ingredients so you know it will be gentle on your kitty’s skin.

    Thanks to the pH-balanced recipe and colloidal oatmeal formulation, this combination shampoo fulfills several needs. First, it cleanses and conditions the coat, lifting excess fur and dander, and leaves it with a subtle cucumber and aloe fragrance of freshness. Second, it moisturizes and nourishes the skin. And third, it reduces any existing irritation and prevents pets from scratching post-bath. 

    All in all, we think this is the best cat shampoo for shedding.

    Pros
    • Eco-friendly
    • Free from soaps, glutens, dyes, DEA, sulfates, and phthalates
    • Removes shed, dander, and allergens
    Cons
    • Some may not love the cucumber scent

    2. EZ Groom Filthy Beast Pet Lover’s Edition

    EZ Groom Filthy Beast Pet Lover's Edition

    Size: 16 oz
    Scent: Both natural and artificial fragrances (floral)

    Our pick for best budget buy cat shampoo for shedding was “Filthy Beast” by EZ Groom. The 16-ounce bottle is already very affordable, but reviewers say the bottle also lasts a long time. Only a small amount of product is needed to create a cleansing lather.

    The shampoo helps to lift and remove shed and detangle and de-mat areas of neglected fur. The formula is “tearless,” so it’s gentle on the eyes. This is especially important for those whose cats don’t still nicely for a bath—99% of us!

    The formula is paraben-free but still contains sulfates which may dry out extra sensitive skin. It’s infused with botanicals for anti-inflammatory properties, which creates a pleasant scent, but it’s also supplemented with artificial fragrance.

    Pros
    • Only requires a small amount for lather
    • Detangles and de-mats
    • Tearless (gentle on the eyes)
    Cons
    • Contains sulfates some cat-owners may want to avoid

    3. TropiClean OxyMed Medicated Oatmeal Treatment Rinse

    TropiClean OxyMed Medicated Oatmeal Treatment Rinse

    Size: 20 oz, 1 gal, 2.5 gal
    Scent: General artificial fragrance

    For a shedding cat experiencing a lot of irritation and itching, something more powerful may be required. This medicated shampoo rinse from TropiClean utilizes chemical and natural ingredients for fast-acting relief.

    Alpha hydroxy acids (Ahas) penetrate the skin to target irritations at their root. Ahas remove the top layers of dead skin—taking dander and shed with it—and increase the thickness of deeper layers of skin.

    After a deep skin clear out, natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, oatmeal, aloe, and vitamin E restore moisture and reduce inflammation. As a medicated product, it’s most effective when it’s left to sit on the skin, which can be a real challenge for impatient cats.

    Pros
    • Medicated for skin irritations
    • Oatmeal, chamomile, and aloe for soothing
    • Fatty acids for skin and coat vitality
    Cons
    • Needs to sit for 3+ minutes for effectiveness

    4. Envirogroom Natural De-shed

    Envirogroom Natural De-shed

    Size: 17-oz
    Scent: Naturally fragrance of jojoba

    There is not much negative to say about this natural deshedding shampoo from Envirogroom. The product seems to perfectly balance the line between a product that works and natural ingredients.

    It only contains seven ingredients in total, and all are naturally derived. It manages to do an excellent job at de-shedding, cleaning, and nourishing the coat that even seasoned groomers are raving about—all without harsh soaps!

    Due to the organic components, the shampoo is safe for pets of all ages, while many other shampoos aren’t suited for kittens. However, the product is a concentrate and while they say it can be safely used as is, it’s probably best to begin use as a dilution. This will ensure the shampoo agrees with your cat’s skin.

    Pros
    • Safe for all ages
    • Limited and natural ingredient list
    • Soy protein restores damaged follicles
    Cons
    • Requires dilution

    5. Earthbath Shed Control Green Tea & Awapuhi

    Earthbath Shed Control Green Tea & Awapuhi

    Size: 16 oz
    Scent: Naturally derived scents of green tea and awapuhi

    This shed control shampoo from Earthbath is another top choice for cat shampoo for shedding. It balances eco-friendly and naturally derived ingredients with effectiveness.

    It targets not only the shedding issue but dander and allergens in your cat’s fur, helping to keep their skin and coat healthy and your home free from fur and cat allergens. The shampoo is full of moisturizing ingredients but is also complemented with a separate conditioner. For best results, the use of both is recommended by the manufacturers.

    Pros
    • Paraben and phosphate-free
    • Eco-friendly
    • Removes shed, dander, and allergens
    Cons
    • Recommended to buy the complimenting conditioner, adding to overall expense

    6. Best Shot Ultra “Dirty” Wash

    Best Shot Ultra “Dirty” Wash

    Size: 16-oz
    Scent: Naturally “musk” scented

    For the most part, cats stay out of situations where they may get dirty, but some more adventurous cats may return home looking extra bedraggled. This “Dirty” shampoo from Best Shot deeply cleans the greasiest of messes while stripping the shed from the coat.

    It’s naturally scented with a “musk” fragrance packed full of citrusy and floral components. However, Best Shot recommended the use of two additional products—conditioner and mist spray—to get the best results.

    Pros
    • Deodorizing
    • Effective on heavy soiling
    • Made in the U.S.A.
    Cons
    • Recommended use of conditioner and mist spray for best results
    • Require dilution

    7. Shed Defender Shed Defense

    Shed Defender Shed Defense

    Size: 16-oz
    Scent: Natural chamomile and lavender extracts

    Shed Defense from Shed Defender targets loose sheds specifically. Vitamin E and omega acids soften skin allowing shed to be stripped with ease. The formula also aims to improve the general health of the skin to reduce future excess shedding.

    The shampoo is free from all the common irritants like sulfates, parabens, dyes, and fragrances so it has a high chance of working for most cats. However, Shed Defender has a range for sensitive skin also.

    Pros
    • Tear-free
    • No sulfates, parabens, or artificial dyes and fragrances
    • Omegas restore skin moisture
    Cons
    • Needs to sit for 2 minutes

    8. Best Shot UltraMax Conditioner

    Best Shot UltraMax Conditioner

    Size: 17 oz, 1.1 gal
    Scent: Natural sweet pea essence

    Amongst the reviews for this shampoo from UltraMax are multiple groomer recommendations. The product may be finicky to use on a squirming cat as it’s designed for post-shampoo use (sometimes it can be hard enough to wash your cat just once!)

    However, the formula is deeply conditioning and can help maintain skin and coat health, effortlessly pulling out old fur.

    It’s also reviewed well as a detangler, so it’s an excellent choice for cats with long, unruly fur. Hydrolyzed silk protein treats hair follicles to strengthen fur with use, reducing further shedding issues gradually.

    Pros
    • Deeply moisturizing
    • Silk protein for coat strength
    • Great detangler
    Cons
    • For use after shampooing

    9. Frisco Shed Control Conditioner with Aloe

    Frisco Shed Control Conditioner with Aloe

    Size: 20 oz, 1 gal
    Scent: Artificial fragrance (sweet nectar)

    Frisco’s shed control conditioner is designed to be used to return moisture to the coat after the use of the “sister product” shed control shampoo. This product can be used on its own if you aren’t looking for a cleaning effect (your cat has already got that under control) but want assistance in shed control.

    Natural oils and proteins nourish the skin, strengthen the coat, and manage loose, tangled fur. Reviewers that didn’t like it say they saw no difference, while positive feedback says that the results take time, but this product helps with long-term healthy shedding.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Plant-derived cleansers
    • Silk and oat protein
    Cons
    • Artificially fragranced
    • Results take time

    10. Perfect Coat Shed Control Tropical Mist

    Perfect Coat Shed Control Tropical Mist

    Size: 16 oz
    Scent: Artificial fragrance (tropical)

    This shed control shampoo from Perfect Coat may just do the trick for you for something simpler and cheaper. It contains artificial additives like colors, preservatives, and fragrances, so it may not suit sensitive skin.

    These artificial additives are the price you pay on affordability, though, and this shampoo comes in a decent-sized bottle for a low price. It contains some moisturizing agents to reduce shedding and sweep away loose sheds.

    Some owners didn’t like the amount of product they had to use to build a lather, but this shampoo is non-lathering. This makes the shampoo a lot easier to rinse out of the fur without leaving behind any residue and making the whole bath shorter.

    Pros
    • Cheap
    • Easy rinse formula
    Cons
    • Artificial colors, preservatives, and fragrances
    • Lots of product needed

    11. FURminator FUR deShedding Rinse-Free Foaming

    FURminator FUR deShedding Rinse-Free Foaming

    Size: 5 oz
    Scent: Artificial fragrance (unstated)

    Not all cats are bath-able, or at least without some serious damage to their egos, your hands, or both! Instead of wrangling an angry cat into a bathtub of water, you may want to try some like this waterless deshedding shampoo from FURminator.

    Your cat’s fur does not need to be wet before application, and the shampoo itself does not need to be rinsed out. Simply massage the shampoo into their fur. Owners like this dry shampoo as it’s a foam applicator, not a spray that freaks their cat out.

    Some people didn’t like it because the scent is overwhelming, and the texture can be pretty sticky.

    Pros
    • Waterless application
    • Hydrolyzed proteins
    • Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids
    Cons
    • Strongly scented
    • Sticky

    hepper cat paw divider

    Buyer’s Guide: Finding the Best Cat Shampoo for Shedding

    After browsing through our list today, you may realize that not all shedding shampoos are the same, and each has different ingredients and benefits. Picking out what shampoo will be best for you and your cat comes down to personal circumstances. Here are some things to consider.

    cat taking a bath
    Image Credit: Irina Kozorog, Shutterstock

    What To Look for In Cat Shampoo

    Ingredients

    You know your cat better than anyone, and if they have overly sensitive skin, you should opt for gentler ingredients. Look for shampoos that are free from drying compounds such as parabens and sulfates and incorporate soothing additives like aloe or oatmeal.

    If your cat has allergies, you should seek vet advice on shampoo recommendations as common allergens can be hiding in plain sight on pet product ingredient lists.

    The Reality of Bathing Your Cat

    If you have a cat that sits nicely while you bathe them or even enjoys a bath, consider yourself very lucky! Generally, cats are reasonably intolerant to water, especially being manhandled in a bathtub.

    The whole bathing experience can be stressful for both you and your moggy, so look for shampoos that will make the ordeal smoother. Consider products that are easy to rinse out, so you can half the time spent in the tub.

    If the reality of getting your cat into a bathtub is laughable, look into purchasing a waterless shampoo that can offer similar benefits without a bath time battle.

    cat looking scared and hating bath time
    Image Credit: JSep, Shutterstock

    Eco-friendly

    The environmental impact of shampoo probably means very little to your cat, but for many humans, our product use is significant to us (and rightly so!) There are many natural and plant-derived shampoo options, some of which have graced our top ten list today.

    Some of these may vary in efficiency when lacking commercial chemicals, so read the reviews closely to hear others’ experiences. These products can often garner higher price tags due to ingredient quality.

    Added Benefits

    Of course, you are aiming for a shampoo that will help manage your cat’s shed, but many offer even more benefits than just this. Many of these will help promote your cat’s general skin and coat health, which can contribute to healthy sheds in the future.

    Some benefits include:
    • Conditioning
    • Soothing
    • Medicated
    • Tear-free
    • Anti-itch

    Tips For Reducing Shedding In Cats

    Shedding is normal for most cats, some shed all year round, and others have one or two heavy seasonal sheds. The amount of shedding generally relates to your cat’s breed and coat type, two things you can do nothing to change!

    tabby cat taking a bath
    Image Credit: Marie-Claude Lemay, Shutterstock

    However, you can utilize a few tricks to reduce the amount of shedding if you are experiencing excess shed.

    • Brush often: Shedding brushings can comb deeply through your cat’s fur, picking up all that excess shed before it finds itself on your couch. Brush thoroughly and regularly to keep on top of it. We recommended introducing the brush to your cat from a young age with lots of positive reinforcement, so grooming is loved, not tolerated.
    • Professional grooming: Some cats have high-maintenance coats, and there’s little you can do about it. Other cats may be struggling to maintain their hygiene; they may be obese, elderly, or disabled, preventing them from cleaning themselves properly. A professional groomer can help keep things under wraps.
    • Supplements for a healthy coat: Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and various other vitamins and minerals can boost your cat’s nutrition to maintain healthy skin and fur from within. Speak to your vet about the best supplement for your cat.
    • Hydration: Lack of moisture in the body can lead to brittle fur. Keep your cat well hydrated to maintain moisture in the coat. Cats are often poor at drinking from stagnant bowls. Mix your cat biscuits with wet food to add water to the diet and consider a cat water fountain to attract your cat to drink on its own.

    Grooming your pet is a process that they either love or hate.

    Hepper Deshedding Cat Brush
    • ONE PUSH RELEASE - This kitten brush / cat brush pops out fur with just a simple press, leaving you...
    • DURABLE - Cat shedding can be a tough ordeal. Made of resilient ABS plastic and metal bristles with...

    If your cat tends to despise their grooming sessions, you can make it a bit more enjoyable with our Hepper Cat Brush. With soft pins and a one-click button for easy clean-up, this brush is something that both you and your cat will enjoy. This is our product, but we love it so much we just had to share! 

    Causes of Excess Shedding in Cats

    Your cat shedding more than usual can be frustrating. You may not have the cleaning equipment needed to keep on top of the fur, or the extra dander can cause mild allergies. If your cat’s shedding has changed recently, it is likely a cause.

    • Seasonal
    • Allergies or skin irritation
    • Skin infection
    • Hormonal changes (pregnancy, sexual maturity)
    • Old age
    • Poor food quality
    • Stress

    hepper cat paw divider

    Conclusion

    Our favorite deshedding shampoo for cats is Hepper’s Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo. This naturally derived product does not sacrifice effectiveness for sustainability and hits both marks perfectly. Backed with great reviews, it is simply a great all-round product.

    For the best budget buy, we picked EZ Groom Filthy Beast. This deeply cleansing shampoo is super affordable, and the product itself goes a long way. You can’t go too wrong with a simple but effective deshedding shampoo.


    Featured Image Credit: Vladeep, Shutterstock

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