8 Best Cat Brushes 2024 | UK Veterinarian Reviewed
Although cats are meticulously clean creatures, brushing is still an essential part of caring for your cat. Not only does regular brushing reduce shedding (and stray cat hairs) and improve skin health, it is also a great way to bond with your pet. Some grooming products are designed to be used by your pet in its own time (loaded with catnip to be enticing), most are handheld brushes and some - called cat's tongue brushes - even mimic the way cats groom each other!
The many different types of brushes, from slicker brushes to detangling combs and silicon grooming gloves, can be overwhelming and selecting the very best one will depend on your cat - their personality and the type of fur they have. Whether you have a long-haired Persian or a British Shorthair, we've created this buying guide to help you out. Moreover, We have partnered with veterinarian Natalia Ramírez for reviewing and fact-checking the article to deliver you the best information.
Quick List - Top Cat Brushes
FURminator
High-Quality, Long-Lasting Brushes Available in Various Sizes to Suit All Hair Types
KTL
A Long-Lasting, Dual Sided Grooming Brush, Great for Those With Multiple Cats
Natalia is a veterinarian with 10 years of experience, specialising in topics related to responsible pet ownership, preventive animal health and nutrition issues that she is currently deepening in her master's studies. She also helps new pet parents by delivering all the necessary information from their arrival at home to different stages of their life.
A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- Fact-Checked & Approved by Veterinarian Natalia Ramírez
- How to Choose a Cat Brush in the UK
- Choose a Brush Based on the Type and Length of Fur Your Cat Has1
- Pick From Metal, Silicone or Bristle Brushes Based on Your Intended Purpose for Grooming2
- Handheld Brushes Are Readily Available and Easy to Use, but Gloves Are Better for Anxious Cats Who Don’t Like Being Groomed3
- How to Get Your Cat Used to Grooming
Fact-Checked & Approved by Veterinarian Natalia Ramírez
Natalia is a veterinarian with 10 years of experience, specialising in topics related to responsible pet ownership, preventive animal health and nutrition issues that she is currently deepening in her master's studies. She also helps new pet parents by delivering all the necessary information from their arrival at home to different stages of their life.
How to Choose a Cat Brush in the UK
- To Choose a Suitable Brush, Consider the Type and Length of Fur Your Cat Has
- Based on Your Intended Purpose for Grooming, Pick a Metal, Silicone or Bristle Brush
- Handheld Brushes Are Popular, Although Gloves Are Better for Anxious Cats
Choose a Brush Based on the Type and Length of Fur Your Cat Has
If You Have a Short-Haired Cat, a Comb With Closely Spaced Teeth Will Get Rid of Loose Hair and Remove Dirt
Just because short-haired cats are lower maintenance and are less prone to matting and tangles, this doesn’t mean they don’t need brushing! Brushing them regularly is still good practice as it helps to promote a healthy coat and skin, as well as reducing shedding, which all cats are prone to do.
As their fur is shorter, you won’t have to spend too long on the grooming process. A comb with closely spaced teeth is a good choice, as not only will it help with combing out any loose hair, it will also help with removing any dirt and dander.
An All-Purpose Slicker Brush Is Perfect for a Weekly Groom on Medium-Haired Cats
If you have a medium-haired cat, such as a Bengal or Siberian, you probably already know that as these are lower maintenance breeds than longer-haired cats, brushing weekly will usually be sufficient for them. An all-purpose tool like a slicker brush may be the best option. These are slanted brushes with thin pin-like bristles, often made of metal, that are great for removing dead skin, loose fur and any dirt.
For Long-Haired Cats, Use a Combination of Shedding Blades, Combs and Bristle Brushes to Get Rid of Matts, Tangles and Dirt
When it comes to long-haired cats such as Persians or Ragdolls, their fur somehow seems to get everywhere! This is due to just how much fur they have, making long haired breeds more prone to tangling and matting, so they require more regular brushing sessions.
Due to the specific needs of a long-haired cat, it is necessary to use different brushes for different jobs. A shedding blade helps remove both the topcoat and the undercoat, while a comb is used to detangle any knots in your cat's fur first. To finish off the job, a bristle brush will help give your cat’s coat a nice shine.
Pick From Metal, Silicone or Bristle Brushes Based on Your Intended Purpose for Grooming
Metal Brushes Are Sturdy, Long-Lasting and Great at Removing Dead Hair and Matting
Metal is often used for slicker brushes, shedding blades and combs. Such brushes are sturdy and long-lasting, and are especially effective when it comes to removing dead hair and detangling any matted sections of fur. However, you need to be gentle with metal brushes, particularly when detangling, as you don’t want to pull too hard and accidentally hurt your pet.
A Silicone Brush Is Waterproof and Gentle Enough for Cats With Sensitive Skin
Silicon is best for cats with sensitive skin, as it is the most gentle material. Not only do silicon brushes effectively groom your cat’s fur, but they also provide a massage that is perfect for improving your cat’s circulation. As they are waterproof, silicone brushes are suitable to use when bathing your cat (if you dare!) and when using them on dry fur they can be rinsed after each use, meaning the brush stays hygienically clean.
For Cats With Dandruff and Dead Skin Issues, Bristle Brushes Are Ideal
Bristle-haired brushes, either made from synthetic materials like nylon, or animal hair such as boar or badger, are another great option as they’re gentle on the skin and fur and are suitable for all breeds of cats with short to medium coats.
If your cat has dandruff, this is the best option, as the gentle massage of bristles will help remove the dead skin from your pet's coat. Plus, these brushes are great for finishing your grooming session as they help remove dust, dirt and loose hair and stimulate natural oils, keeping your cat's coat shiny, clean and healthy.
For some more practical pet products, take a look at our our best wet cat foods and best cat litter suggestions.
Handheld Brushes Are Readily Available and Easy to Use, but Gloves Are Better for Anxious Cats Who Don’t Like Being Groomed
Consider whether you would prefer to use a traditional handheld brush, or a non-conventional option. A handheld brush is the easiest to find and use, but some cats may not like the feeling. For these cats, you may want to consider a wearable glove with flexible bristles, so you can groom your cat whilst you pet them. If they are particularly shy, there are hands-free tools/toys that help with grooming, so your pet can play freely and be brushed at the same time.
For more fun suggestions, check out our best cat toys.
8 Best Cat Brushes in the UK
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | FURminator Undercoat De-Shedding Tool | | High-Quality, Long-Lasting Brushes Available in Various Sizes to Suit All Hair Types | |
2 | KTL Double Sided Pet Grooming Brush | | A Long-Lasting, Dual Sided Grooming Brush, Great for Those With Multiple Cats | |
3 | KONG Zoom Groom Rubber Cat Brush | | Cat-Shaped Soft, Rubber Brush for Sensitive, Shedding Cats | |
4 | Jaswell Dual Sided Undercoat Rake | | A Dual Sided De-matting Rake for Long-Haired Cats | |
5 | Szlishuo Self Cleaning Slicker Brush | | An All-Purpose Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush for Cats Who Shed a Lot | |
6 | Catit Senses 2.0 Self Groomer | | A Self-Grooming Toy for All Fur Lengths Featuring an Enticing Cat Nip Compartment | |
7 | H HandsOn Gloves Grooming Gloves | | A Grooming Glove For Short-Haired Cats With Sensitive Skin | |
8 | Niyin204 Cat Tongue Brush | | A Novelty Tongue-Shaped Grooming Tool to Develop a Closer Bond With Your Cat |
High-Quality, Long-Lasting Brushes Available in Various Sizes to Suit All Hair Types
The FURminator deShedding Tool is one of the most popular cat brushes amongst pet-owners and groomers alike. It comes in different sizes to suit cats of all breeds and hair types and is made from high-quality stainless steel, making it a long-lasting product.
The teeth are able to effectively reach deep into your cat's undercoat, to get rid of any hidden loose fur. In fact, the FURminator claims to reduce shedding by up to 90%, which will help keep your pet's coat looking sleek and smooth - your soft furnishings will thank you too!
A Long-Lasting, Dual Sided Grooming Brush, Great for Those With Multiple Cats
This double-sided grooming brush offered by KTL is a great option for those with multiple cats, if they have different needs. One side features plastic pins, perfect for detangling and brushing, whereas the other side features a bristle brush, for finishing off the grooming session.
The high-quality brush handle is made from fast-growing bamboo, ensuring this tool is a durable and long-lasting option that is environmentally more sustainable, naturally antibacterial and easy to clean.
Cat-Shaped Soft, Rubber Brush for Sensitive, Shedding Cats
Brought to you by popular pet brand KONG, this ZoomGroom rubber brush is a top choice amongst cat owners. Though we especially recommend it for sensitive cats who dislike harsher metal brushes.
Featuring soft and flexible silicon pins, this cute cat-shaped tool easily brushes and massages at the same time, removing your pet’s loose fur and dander. If your cat is prone to lots of shedding, this tool is particularly useful as the dead fur easily sticks to the silicon material, ensuring a straightforward brushing session - plus the rubber can be rinsed in water afterwards.
A Dual Sided De-matting Rake for Long-Haired Cats
For longer-haired cats, this undercoat rake is an excellent grooming option. The dual-sided comb has both closely spaced and larger set teeth for combing out any tight knots and matted tangles, whereas the shedding blade is perfect for thinning and de-shedding.
We love how easy this handheld tool is to use, with an anti-slip ergonomically-friendly handle to ensure comfort for you as you groom. Those with long-haired cats will really appreciate using this on their pet, during long grooming sessions.
An All-Purpose Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush for Cats Who Shed a Lot
Slicker brushes are a great all-purpose grooming option for cats of all breeds. These brushes are excellent for removing dander and loose hair, particularly in longer-haired breeds that shed a lot, as the thin bristles are able to reach deep into your cat's coat and the rounded tips stops them being harsh on the skin.
If you have a cat that sheds a lot, this is a great option for you. This slicker brush has a self-cleaning function, allowing you to retract the bristles at the push of a button. So you can easily wipe away and bin the loose hair trapped by the brush.
A Self-Grooming Toy for All Fur Lengths Featuring an Enticing Cat Nip Compartment
This is a relaxed, hands-free grooming option, for cats who hate to be brushed. Not only does this self-groom cats of all fur lengths, but best of all there is a compartment for catnip inside to ensure it becomes your pet's new favourite play-thing!
With long rubber tips, this toy is able to remove and collect dead skin and fur from your pet as it plays with the toy. However, it won't be capable of thoroughly grooming every part of your cat. So you will still need to brush their undersides and any areas they may not be able to reach.
A Grooming Glove For Short-Haired Cats With Sensitive Skin
These grooming gloves are perfect for cats with sensitive skin - who don't like the feeling of being brushed. The gloves allow you to stroke your pet without them knowing they're being groomed.
The best thing about these gloves is that the fingertips have longer rubber nodules, with rounded nodules on the palms, allowing for a greater massaging experience. Unfortunately, the nodules are quite small, so they're better suited for shorter-haired cats rather than long haired.
Niyin204Cat Tongue Brush
A Novelty Tongue-Shaped Grooming Tool to Develop a Closer Bond With Your Cat
This product isn't the usual cat brush for grooming, but it is a fun way to bond with your cat. Rather than a hand-held tool or a glove, this brush goes in your mouth (it is made of food-grade material) to allow you to groom your cat via a "licking" action, much like how a mother cat grooms a kitten.
Although this may not be the most efficient way of grooming your pet, it is a great novelty product. Plus it might just work on a pet that dislikes all other grooming options!. However, you will in addition, need another more mainstream brush, to ensure an optimum grooming routine is maintained.
How to Get Your Cat Used to Grooming
The UK's largest cat welfare charity, Cats Protection made this video to show how to help your cat get used to being brushed. They suggest the Groom - STOP – Reward method. So introduce the grooming tool slowly and give lots of treats and praise, then gradually you can build up to longer brushing sessions.
Top 5 Cat Brushes
No. 1: FURminator｜Undercoat De-Shedding Tool
No. 2: KTL｜Double Sided Pet Grooming Brush
No. 3: KONG｜Zoom Groom Rubber Cat Brush
No. 4: Jaswell｜Dual Sided Undercoat Rake
No. 5: Szlishuo｜Self Cleaning Slicker Brush
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Search by category
Automotive
Agricultural vehicle parts & equipment, Car & motorbike care, Car & vehicle electronicsBaby Products
Activity & entertainment, Car seats & accessories, Carriers & accessoriesBeauty
Bath & body, Fragrances, Hair careBooks
Antiquarian, rare & collectable, Arts & photography, Biographies & memoirsBusiness, Industry & Science
3D printing & scanning, Abrasive & finishing products, Agricultural equipment & suppliesComputers & Accessories
Accessories, Barebone PCs, Components & replacement partsDIY, Garden & Tools
Building supplies, Construction machinery, ElectricalElectronics & Photo
Accessories, Camera & photo, Car & vehicle electronicsFashion
Baby, Boys, GirlsGrocery
Baby foods, Bakery, Beer, wine & spiritsHealth & Personal Care
Baby & child care, Dental care, Diet & nutritionHome & Kitchen
Arts & crafts, Artwork, BathroomLarge Appliances
Beer & wine storage & dispensers, Compact kitchens, Dishwashers & dish dryersMusical Instruments & DJ
Bass guitars & gear, DJ & VJ equipment, Drums & percussionPC & Video Games
Currency & subscription cards, Handheld game systems, Legacy systemsPet Supplies
Birds, Cats, DogsSports & Outdoors
Accessories, Fitness, Hunting & fishingStationery & Office Products
Art & craft supplies, Calendars, planners & personal organisers, Envelopes & mailing suppliesToys & Games
Arts & crafts, Baby & toddler toys, Building & construction toys