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  3. 10 Best Cat Shampoos in 2022 (Burt's Bees, Earthbath, and More)
  • 10 Best Cat Shampoos in 2022 (Burt's Bees, Earthbath, and More) 1
  • 10 Best Cat Shampoos in 2022 (Burt's Bees, Earthbath, and More) 2
  • 10 Best Cat Shampoos in 2022 (Burt's Bees, Earthbath, and More) 3
  • 10 Best Cat Shampoos in 2022 (Burt's Bees, Earthbath, and More) 4
  • 10 Best Cat Shampoos in 2022 (Burt's Bees, Earthbath, and More) 5

10 Best Cat Shampoos in 2022 (Burt's Bees, Earthbath, and More)

A good shampoo will nourish and keep your cat's skin and coat soft, moisturize, and healthy. Some shampoos are even formulated with active ingredients to soothe certain skin conditions such as itching and dandruff. However, given the plethora of products available online today, it's tough to know which shampoo is the best for your cat. 


To give you some options, we've combed through the Internet and found the 10 cat shampoos that are loved by reviewers. Our best pick was Pro Pet Works' Oatmeal Pet Wash Shampoo + Conditioner. It contains many nourishing ingredients such as aloe vera, vitamin E, and almond oil to keep your cat's coat and skin healthy. If you need some tips and tricks in choosing a cat shampoo, check out our buying guide at the end as well! 

Last updated 09/26/2023
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Table of Contents

How to Choose Cat Shampoos

To choose a cat shampoo, make sure to consider the condition of your cat's skin. Some cats with certain skin conditions might need medicated shampoos, while cats with dry skin might need shampoos infused with moisturizing ingredients.

1

Choose a Shampoo Based on Your Cat's Condition

To choose a shampoo that works well for your cat, you should think about their skin and fur. For example, if your cat has sensitive skin, we recommend avoiding a formula with potential irritants. 

A Moisturizing Formula is Great for Cats With Dry Skin

A Moisturizing Formula is Great for Cats With Dry Skin

Dry weather and nutritional deficiencies can dry out your cat's coat and lead to flaky skin, dandruff, and itching. Those skin issues can make your cats feel uncomfortable. They may lick and scratch their coat excessively for some relief, thus leading to skin infections.   


To prevent and treat dryness, choose a shampoo with moisturizing ingredients, such as oatmeal, aloe vera, and shea butter. Dryness will also make the coat of your cat dull. So look for ingredients like honey and keratin to add healthy luster to their coat. 


To alleviate itching, consider ingredients such as lavender oil, chamomile flower extract, and oatmeal. Although these ingredients are toxic to cats in plant form if eaten, they're diluted enough in oil form that they're not considered harmful. 

For Cats With Sensitive Skin, Avoid Potential Irritants

For Cats With Sensitive Skin, Avoid Potential Irritants

If your cat has sensitive skin, choose a formula that's free from potentially irritating ingredients, such as soaps, sulfates, and alcohols. Alcohol can dry out your cat's coat and lead to itching. Sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate or ammonium lauryl sulfate are great cleansing agents but might cause skin irritation


Soaps offer a good clean, but they might strip their coat and skin of their natural moisture, leading to excessive dryness. Shampoos without certain soaps might not lather as well, but they are still effective! 


You may think that a natural formula is safe for cats, but cats are allergic to many natural ingredients. According to the Canadian Veterinary Medicine Association, essential oils such as tea tree, clove, bergamot, and thyme might be toxic to cats. So be wary of these ingredients when choosing a natural shampoo. You should consult with your vet when in doubt

A Medicated Formula Targets a Specific Skin Issue

A Medicated Formula Targets a Specific Skin Issue

If your cat has a yeast infection, bacterial infection, or skin allergies, they might need a medicated shampoo with active ingredients that target those issues. Some medicated shampoos contain antibacterial ingredients to alleviate bacterial skin infections, such as pyoderma. 


To alleviate fungal infections like yeast and ringworm, go for an antifungal shampoo with ingredients like chlorhexidine and ketoconazole. Some shampoos will help combat fleas and ticks, too! To ensure that a medicated shampoo is designed specifically for your cat's condition, read the product's description carefully. 


Keep in mind that the active ingredients formulated in a medicated shampoo might be too strong for your cat. Be sure to use it sparingly! Check with your vet before purchasing to see if the shampoo can truly help with your cat's condition, too. 

For Cats Who Hate Water, Opt for a Dry Shampoo

For Cats Who Hate Water, Opt for a Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo, or waterless shampoo, offers an easy and convenient way of cleansing senior cats or those afraid of water. This type of shampoo doesn't need to be rinsed with water. If you're traveling with your cat, waterless shampoo can also be helpful.


Most dry shampoos for cats come in the form of foam. Simply massage the foam directly into your cat's coat from head to paw. 

For Hairless Breeds, Make Sure the Shampoo isn't Drying

For Hairless Breeds, Make Sure the Shampoo isn't Drying

Cat's fur helps keep oil and dirt away from the skin. Since hairless breeds have no hair, dirt and oil are likely to build up, causing your cat's skin to get dirty and oily easily. So, to keep your hairless cat healthy and hygienic, you need to wash them regularly


Choose a shampoo that doesn't contain potentially harsh ingredients, like alcohols and sulfates, that may strip the natural oils away from your hairless cat's delicate skin. Shampoos infused with coconut-based surfactants might be a good choice, as they can gently cleanse their skin of daily grime without drying it out

2

Consider a pH-Balanced Formula

Consider a pH-Balanced Formula

Compared to human skin, a cat's skin is thinner, more acidic, and more sensitive. It's prone to dryness as well, so go for a shampoo with a pH-balanced formula. It doesn't strip your cat's coat and skin of its natural oil and prevents moisture loss, too. 


An imbalance in pH levels might lead to skin irritation as well. As a result, choosing a pH-balanced shampoo will help your cat stay healthy and prevent potential diseases. Also, keep in mind that feline skin is more alkaline than canine skin. So don't use a dog's shampoo for your cat unless it's labeled as suitable for cats.

3

Make Sure the Shampoo is Kitten-Safe

Make Sure the Shampoo is Kitten-Safe

The skin of a kitten is more sensitive than that of an adult cat. Therefore, they will need a shampoo with a gentle formula. Some shampoos might contain strong cleansing agents that aren't suitable for kittens. So check the product's description and ensure the shampoo is suitable for kittens.


The active ingredients in medicated shampoos can be quite harsh on the delicate skin of your kitten, too. So, double-check with your vet before purchasing a medicated shampoo. 

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10 Best Cat Shampoos Ranking

Here are the best Cat Shampoos, ranked according to 10 Best Cat Shampoos (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Pro Pet Works

Oatmeal Pet Wash Shampoo + Conditioner

Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Pet Wash Shampoo + Conditioner 1

$14.29

High Mid

2-in-1 Shampoo With Vitamin E and Aloe Vera

2

John Paul Pet

Oatmeal Shampoo

John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo 1

$7.56

Low

A Gentle Formula for Cats With Sensitive Skin

3

Earthbath

2-in-1 Conditioning Cat Shampoo

Earthbath  2-in-1 Conditioning Cat Shampoo 1

$14.99

High Mid

Effectively Moisturizers Your Cat's Fur

4

Bayer Animal Health

HyLyt Shampoo

Bayer Animal Health HyLyt Shampoo 1

$11.99

Mid

Essential Fatty Acids to Improve Your Cat's Skin Barrier

5

Burt's Bees

Hypoallergenic Shampoo

Burt's Bees Hypoallergenic Shampoo 1

$11.54

Mid

Shea Butter and Honey Soften and Add Shine to Fur

6

Adams

Flea & Tick Shampoo

Adams Flea & Tick Shampoo  1

$10.59

Mid

Highly Effective in Combating Fleas

7

Four Paws

Magic Coat Gentle Tearless

Four Paws Magic Coat Gentle Tearless  1

$9.59

Low Mid

Delivers a Fresh, Citrusy Scent

8

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care

Antiseptic & Antifungal Medicated Shampoo

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic & Antifungal Medicated Shampoo 1

$8.58

Low Mid

A Solution for Your Cat's Skin Problems

9

Vet's Best

Flea & Tick Shampoo for Cats

Vet's Best  Flea & Tick Shampoo for Cats 1

$9.00

Low Mid

A Plant-Based Formula That Eliminates Fleas and Ticks

10

Shampoo

Advantage Shampoo

Shampoo Advantage Shampoo 1

$17.99

High

Dry Shampoo Ideal for Cats Afraid of Water

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Pro Pet WorksOatmeal Pet Wash Shampoo + Conditioner

Oatmeal Pet Wash Shampoo + Conditioner 1
Source:amazon.com
Oatmeal Pet Wash Shampoo + Conditioner 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$14.29
High Mid
Reference price
$14.29
High Mid

2-in-1 Shampoo With Vitamin E and Aloe Vera

This shampoo and conditioner is infused with soothing vitamin E, aloe vera, oatmeal, and almond oil to help with itching and prevent dryness. It also doesn't contain harsh chemicals that might irritate your cat's sensitive skin, such as sulfates, soap, and alcohol. Plus, it works for dogs, rabbits, and even guinea pigs! 


A few buyers find the consistency too watery and mention that they have to use more of the shampoo to clean their cat thoroughly. 


Meanwhile, the nourishing formula of this shampoo receives many compliments from reviewers. They say it makes their cat's fur very soft and removes any unpleasant odor. Many are happy that their cat doesn't get any allergic reactions. Their itching seems to go away, too. 

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

John Paul PetOatmeal Shampoo

Oatmeal Shampoo 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$7.56
Low
Reference price
$7.56
Low

A Gentle Formula for Cats With Sensitive Skin

This shampoo from John Paul Pet is designed for cats with sensitive skin. It's enriched with many nourishing ingredients, such as oatmeal, aloe vera, and chamomile flower extract, to soothe itchiness while taking care of flaky and dry skin. It also has a mild nutty scent from the sweet almond oil.


Some buyers wish that the scent lasted longer. On the other hand, most reviewers agree that this shampoo helps moisturize and soften their cat's fur. They are happy with the gentle formula, saying that it doesn't irritate their cat's skin. Many also notice that their cat no longer has itchy skin issues after using this shampoo. 

No.3

Earthbath 2-in-1 Conditioning Cat Shampoo

2-in-1 Conditioning Cat Shampoo 1
Source:amazon.com
2-in-1 Conditioning Cat Shampoo 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$14.99
High Mid
Reference price
$14.99
High Mid

Effectively Moisturizers Your Cat's Fur

With gentle coconut-based cleansing agents, this shampoo is less likely to irritate the sensitive skin of your cat. It doubles as a conditioner, too! It uses aloe vera to deeply moisturizes and nourishes their skin, leaving it smooth and soft


A few buyers note that their cat doesn't like the cherry scent of this product. However, reviewers also praise the gentle and moisturizing formula of this shampoo, saying it cleans their cat's fur while keeping it soft. They add that it produces a lot of suds up and rinses off easily. 

No.4

Bayer Animal HealthHyLyt Shampoo

HyLyt Shampoo 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.99
Mid
Reference price
$11.99
Mid

Essential Fatty Acids to Improve Your Cat's Skin Barrier

This shampoo contains collagen, safflower oil, and glycerin to hydrate and condition your cat's coat. The formula is packed with essential fatty acids to help repair the protective barrier of your cat's skin, thus reducing flaking problems. Plus, this shampoo doesn't have soap and won't strip your cat's skin of its natural moisture. 


The majority of reviewers compliment the gentle formula, saying it doesn't trigger allergic reactions. They love the pleasant coconut scent, but some wish that it lasted longer. Still, many reviewers praise the moisturizing formula, noting that it helps with skin problems such as itching and flaking.

No.5

Burt's BeesHypoallergenic Shampoo

Hypoallergenic Shampoo 1
Source:amazon.com
Hypoallergenic Shampoo 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.54
Mid
Reference price
$11.54
Mid

Shea Butter and Honey Soften and Add Shine to Fur

Formulated with shea butter, this shampoo is ultra-moisturizing and can keep your cat's fur soft while preventing dry, flaky skin. The addition of honey gives fur a nice shine. Plus, the formula is pH-balanced and free from potential irritants, such as fragrances and sulfates. It works for kittens as well. 


Some reviewers say that this shampoo is difficult to fully rinse out. Nevertheless, the majority compliment its moisturizing properties, saying it makes their cat's fur soft. Plus, they said this shampoo doesn't cause any allergic reactions. 

No.6

AdamsFlea & Tick Shampoo

Flea & Tick Shampoo  1
Source:amazon.com
Flea & Tick Shampoo  2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$10.59
Mid
Reference price
$10.59
Mid

Highly Effective in Combating Fleas

This medicated shampoo is formulated specially to combat fleas, flea eggs, and ticks. It's also infused with soothing ingredients, such as aloe vera, oatmeal, and lanolin, to keep your cat's coat hydrated while calming irritation. This product works for kittens that are older than 12 weeks. 


Many reviewers comment that this shampoo effectively kills fleas and eggs. But some people do note that the formula is quite strong and suggest using it only once in a while. On another note, a lot of buyers mention that their cat's coat becomes softer after using the shampoo. They also note that it lathers up nicely and has a clean scent. 

No.7

Four PawsMagic Coat Gentle Tearless

Magic Coat Gentle Tearless  1
Source:amazon.com
Magic Coat Gentle Tearless  2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$9.59
Low Mid
Reference price
$9.59
Low Mid

Delivers a Fresh, Citrusy Scent

This cat shampoo features a nourishing formula with aloe vera, lanolin, and keratin to keep your cat's fur and skin moisturized. Also, it's formulated with fragrance and has a citrus scent. 


A few buyers complain about the thin consistency. But according to many others, this shampoo cleans well and rinses off easily without leaving behind greasy residue. They are glad that it's non-irritating and soothes all itching. Plus, many people love the mild scent and are happy that this shampoo makes their cat's coat soft and smooth. 

No.8

Veterinary Formula Clinical CareAntiseptic & Antifungal Medicated Shampoo

Antiseptic & Antifungal Medicated Shampoo 1
Source:amazon.com
Antiseptic & Antifungal Medicated Shampoo 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$8.58
Low Mid
Reference price
$8.58
Low Mid

A Solution for Your Cat's Skin Problems

Made with ingredients with strong antibacterial properties, such as benzethonium chloride and ketoconazole, this medicated shampoo helps alleviate yeast and bacterial infections. There's also aloe vera to calm irritation, too. Since this is a medicated shampoo, it might be harsh on your cat's skin. So, check with your vet before using it. 


A few buyers note that you have to use it repeatedly to see results. Meanwhile, many reviewers vouch for this shampoo's effectiveness in relieving itching, flaking, and rashes. Others mention that it works for ringworms, too. Most users add that it cleans fur well, leaving it soft and smooth. 

No.9

Vet's Best Flea & Tick Shampoo for Cats

Flea & Tick Shampoo for Cats 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$9.00
Low Mid
Reference price
$9.00
Low Mid

A Plant-Based Formula That Eliminates Fleas and Ticks

Infused with clove and cottonseed oils, this shampoo effectively targets fleas and ticks. The plant-based formula doesn't contain any harsh chemicals and is suitable for both cats and kittens older than 12 weeks. 


The majority of reviewers say it lathers nicely and gets rid of fleas well. However, some mention that it isn't able to get rid of flea eggs. Yet, most still highly recommend this product, noting that it has a pleasant herbal scent that deodorizes their cat. Their cat's fur seems to become softer, too. 

No.10

ShampooAdvantage Shampoo

Advantage Shampoo 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$17.99
High
Reference price
$17.99
High

Dry Shampoo Ideal for Cats Afraid of Water

Instead of using chemical surfactants, this dry shampoo relies on coconut-derived surfactants that gently clean your cat's fur without causing any allergic reactions. It contains laureth-7 citrate and capryl betaine, two plant-based ingredients that moisturize their fur. This gentle formula is suitable for cats of all ages. 


Some reviewers complain that the shampoo leaves residue on their cat's fur. However, many users mention that its pump is easy to use. They also compliment the lightweight consistency, saying it absorbs quickly and is easy to spread. Many said this dry shampoo works great for young kittens, senior cats, and cats scared of water. They like its clean and mild scent, too. 

More Fantastic Products for Your Cats

Cats are fickle in nature, and there is no single way to keep them entertained. If you're in search of ways to make your cat happy, check out our product guides! 

Top 5 Cat Shampoos

No. 1: Pro Pet WorksOatmeal Pet Wash Shampoo + Conditioner

No. 2: John Paul PetOatmeal Shampoo

No. 3: Earthbath 2-in-1 Conditioning Cat Shampoo

No. 4: Bayer Animal HealthHyLyt Shampoo

No. 5: Burt's BeesHypoallergenic Shampoo

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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