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  • 10 Best Cat Shampoos 2024 | UK Veterinarian Reviewed 1
  • 10 Best Cat Shampoos 2024 | UK Veterinarian Reviewed 2
  • 10 Best Cat Shampoos 2024 | UK Veterinarian Reviewed 3
  • 10 Best Cat Shampoos 2024 | UK Veterinarian Reviewed 4
  • 10 Best Cat Shampoos 2024 | UK Veterinarian Reviewed 5

10 Best Cat Shampoos 2024 | UK Veterinarian Reviewed

It’s common knowledge that cats are more than capable of grooming themselves. That being said, should your cat end up with a particularly dirty coat or even a dreaded infestation of fleas, it might be time to call in the cavalry - AKA cat shampoo. We're here to ensure that you have the right equipment to get the job done quickly and efficiently. But what shampoo is good for cats?


With this straightforward guide, we'll help you find the best shampoo, with recommendations for products to buy in the UK at Amazon. Whether you need a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner combo to add shine to their coat, a waterless spray, a naturally hypoallergenic formula, or even shampoo for fleas or for dandruff, we're certain that you'll find something suitable for your cat on our list! Moreover, we have partnered with veterinarian Natalia Ramírez for reviewing and fact-checking the article to deliver you the best information.

Last updated 25/03/2024

Quick List - Top Cat Shampoos

1

Earthbath

Pet Shampoo
Pet Shampoo

A Coconut-Based Cleanser That’s Hypoallergenic and Environmentally-Friendly

2

Pet Head

Strawberry Lemonade Fizzy Kitty Mousse Cleaner
Strawberry Lemonade Fizzy Kitty Mousse Cleaner

A Thick and Nourishing No-Rinse Formula for a Gloriously Glossy Coat

3

The Healthy Dog Co

Flea Shampoo for Dogs & Cats
Flea Shampoo for Dogs & Cats

Natural Formula for Both Cats and Dogs to Treat Infestations and Itchy Skin

4

Earthbath

Wild Cherry 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner
Wild Cherry 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner

Cruelty-Free and Cherry-Scented 2-In-1 Formula Featuring Soothing Aloe Vera and Coconut

5

Vet's Best

Natural Waterless Cat Bath
Natural Waterless Cat Bath

A Dry Shampoo Made With Natural Ingredients - No Rinsing Required

Natalia Ramírez
Expert
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.

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Table of Contents

Fact-Checked & Approved by Veterinarian Natalia Ramírez

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 Shampoo in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Choose Between a Traditional Shampoo, 2-In-1, or a Waterless Formula
  2. Look for Natural Ingredients to Promote a Smooth and Shiny Coat
  3. Pick a Treatment Shampoo to Get Rid of Fleas, Ticks or Mites
  4. Use a Hypoallergenic Formula for Cats With Sensitive Skin 
1

Choose Between Traditional Shampoo, 2-In-1, or a Waterless Formula Depending on Your Cat’s Fur and How Comfortable They Are Bathing

Choose Between Traditional Shampoo, 2-In-1, or a Waterless Formula Depending on Your Cat’s Fur and How Comfortable They Are Bathing

Go For a Traditional Shampoo With a Mild and Gentle Formula for Bathing Your Kitty Every 4-6 Weeks

Traditional shampoos are the most commonly available type on the market. They consist of a mild and gentle formula that can be used regularly to keep your kitty clean. Giving your cat a thorough shampooing every 4-6 weeks with this kind of product will remove dirt and leave them smelling fresh.


As you would expect, this kind of shampoo requires water and a bathtub. So, both you and your cat need to be prepared for that experience - if you have a particularly skittish kitty, then you may want to opt for one of our other suggestions!

Opt for a 2-In-1 Combo for Using on Cats With Unruly Fur to Create a Soft and Manageable Coat

A 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner combo for cats works in pretty much the same way it does for human hair. While cats don’t always need conditioner, this type of product can help to make their coat extra smooth, soft, and manageable. It's, therefore, a great choice if your cat has a mane that's particularly difficult to manage.


As this type of formula usually comes in a single bottle, it can make life easier for owners whose cat dislikes spending a long time in the water. That being said, you might want to use a separate conditioner if you find that one of the shampoos on our list works well for your pet.

If Your Cat Hates Baths, Opt For a Waterless Formula That Works Similarly to Dry Shampoo

If your cat hates getting wet, opting for a waterless shampoo will help save your arms from scratches! This type of product works similarly to dry shampoo and typically comes in either a spray or a mousse formula.

 
While there are certainly benefits to going waterless, owners of cats with sensitive skin may want to steer clear of this type of product as it tends to contain parfum and alcohol, which can cause irritation.


Most waterless formulas will require you to comb them through with a cat brush!

2

Seek Out Formulas Made From Natural Ingredients Such as Aloe Vera, Coconut and Proteins to Create a Smooth and Shiny Coat

Seek Out Formulas Made From Natural Ingredients Such as Aloe Vera, Coconut and Proteins to Create a Smooth and Shiny Coat

It might seem pretty obvious, but a good cat shampoo shouldn't contain harsh or potentially harmful chemicals. To keep your kitty clean and healthy, your best bet is to opt for natural ingredients.


Key ingredients to look for are aloe vera, coconut, and chamomile, which hydrate the skin and smooth out tangled fur. Oat or wheat proteins also strengthen your kitty's coat and leave it looking shiny, while camellia extract has anti-inflammatory properties.


As we mentioned earlier, some shampoos do contain parfum. While this will help make fur smell better, it may irritate your cat's skin. Therefore, finding a shampoo that contains plenty of natural ingredients instead will be a win-win - you’ll get the silky, fresh-smelling pet you deserve, and they’ll be left with luscious feeling fur!

3

Pick a Specific Treatment Shampoo for Treating Pests Such as Fleas, Ticks or Mites

While most cat shampoo is designed for regular cleansing, some are formulated to treat a particular issue. Most products that provide this type of specialised care will clearly state this on the bottle to help you identify them immediately when shopping.


Treatment shampoos will usually list which conditions or pests the formula can combat, such as fleas, ticks, mites, and lice. So, if your cat is plagued with an infestation, snap one of these shampoos up quickly to ease their suffering and keep the bugs at bay!

4

Try Using a Hypoallergenic Formula Without Soap, Sulphates, or Parabens on Cats With Sensitive Skin

Try Using a Hypoallergenic Formula Without Soap, Sulphates, or Parabens on Cats With Sensitive Skin

Since a cat's skin has a unique pH level and is much thinner than human skin, it's essential to ensure that the shampoo you select won't disrupt their delicate skin barrier. Most products formulated with pets in mind should take this into account anyway, but cats with sensitive skin that are prone to flare-ups or allergies will require an extra-gentle shampoo


If this sounds like your furry pal, we recommend opting for a hypoallergenic formula without soap, sulphates, or parabens. These synthetic ingredients can dry out their skin and cause flakiness, which will only lead to an unhappy kitty!


Make the bathing experience a bit nicer for your cat with some of our best cat treats!

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10 Best Cat Shampoo in the UK

mybest UK product recommendations are reviewed and curated by our writers in-house. We focus on in-depth research and analysis of product reviews to carefully select the best products available for the best prices.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Earthbath

Pet Shampoo

Earthbath Pet Shampoo 1

A Coconut-Based Cleanser That’s Hypoallergenic and Environmentally-Friendly

2

Pet Head

Strawberry Lemonade Fizzy Kitty Mousse Cleaner

Pet Head Strawberry Lemonade Fizzy Kitty Mousse Cleaner 1

A Thick and Nourishing No-Rinse Formula for a Gloriously Glossy Coat

3

The Healthy Dog Co

Flea Shampoo for Dogs & Cats

The Healthy Dog Co Flea Shampoo for Dogs & Cats  1

Natural Formula for Both Cats and Dogs to Treat Infestations and Itchy Skin

4

Earthbath

Wild Cherry 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner

Earthbath Wild Cherry 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner  1

Cruelty-Free and Cherry-Scented 2-In-1 Formula Featuring Soothing Aloe Vera and Coconut

5

Vet's Best

Natural Waterless Cat Bath

Vet's Best Natural Waterless Cat Bath  1

A Dry Shampoo Made With Natural Ingredients - No Rinsing Required

6

Animology

Feline Great Cat Shampoo

Animology Feline Great Cat Shampoo 1

A 2-In-1 Shampoo Infused With Pro-vitamin B-5 From a Multi-Award Winning Pet Care Company

7

John Paul Pets

Oatmeal Conditioning Rinse

John Paul Pets Oatmeal Conditioning Rinse 1

A Highly-Concentrated Rinse-Out Conditioner, Ideal for Cats With Sensitive Skin and Long Hair

8

Johnson's

Cat Flea Cleaning Shampoo

Johnson's Cat Flea Cleaning Shampoo 1

Highly Effective Flea Treatment to Cleanse and Deodorise Any Cat Over 8 Weeks Old

9

TropiClean

Deep Cleaning Waterless Shampoo for Cats

TropiClean Deep Cleaning Waterless Shampoo for Cats 1

A Completely Waterless Deep Clean for Especially Mucky Cats

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

Earthbath
Pet Shampoo

Pet Shampoo 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Pet Shampoo 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£14.95
High Mid
Reference price
£14.95
High Mid

A Coconut-Based Cleanser That’s Hypoallergenic and Environmentally-Friendly

Here we have another environmentally-friendly offering from Earthbath, and it's a favourite among cat owners everywhere. This coconut-based cleanser features plant derivatives and aloe vera, making it great for pets who suffer from allergies as well as those who have sensitive and sore skin. Even if your kitty has neither of these issues, it's still a nice natural option for bathtime. 


Since all ingredients are 100% plant-derived, this product can be used on kittens from six weeks old. The liquid lathers well, too, despite the lack of sulphates, and works without interfering with topical flea medications. A hypoallergenic shampoo that really does the job!

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No.2

Pet Head
Strawberry Lemonade Fizzy Kitty Mousse Cleaner

Strawberry Lemonade Fizzy Kitty Mousse Cleaner 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Strawberry Lemonade Fizzy Kitty Mousse Cleaner 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£18.91
High Mid
Reference price
£18.91
High Mid

A Thick and Nourishing No-Rinse Formula for a Gloriously Glossy Coat

While it has absolutely nothing to do with the quality of the shampoo, we have to say that this is by far our favourite bottle in terms of the design! Luckily, the fruity-flavoured contents are great too, making our job that little bit easier. This waterless solution is another non-rinse formula, meaning you'll be safe from bathtime scratches for the foreseeable future.


The formula is relatively thick, but the brand claims that this increases the cleaning capability, as it's better at picking up dirt when brushed through fur. It, therefore, it mainly benefits pets with long hair, producing a gloriously glossy coat.

No.3

The Healthy Dog Co
Flea Shampoo for Dogs & Cats

Reference price
£15.99
High Mid

Natural Formula for Both Cats and Dogs to Treat Infestations and Itchy Skin

If you have several four-legged pals at home that are different species, then this offering from The Healthy Dog Co could be the perfect solution to your bug-based woes! The formula caters to both dogs and cats, using non-toxic ingredients to deal with fleas and all sorts of other invasive insects. 


Moreover, this formula soothes itchy and sore skin, thanks to the coconut extract. If you're after a treatment shampoo that'll leave your pets with glossy, luscious-looking fur, you're onto a winner with this one!

No.4

Earthbath
Wild Cherry 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner

Wild Cherry 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Wild Cherry 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner  2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£16.95
High Mid
Reference price
£16.95
High Mid

Cruelty-Free and Cherry-Scented 2-In-1 Formula Featuring Soothing Aloe Vera and Coconut

As the name Earthbath suggests, you'll have no problems with dodgy ingredients if you purchase products from this brand. Not only is this 2-in-1 formula gentle, but it's also cruelty-free - so no cute furballs were harmed in the manufacturing process!


Alongside soothing aloe vera and hydrating coconut, this shampoo and conditioner combo has a delightful cherry scent that's derived naturally, so it shouldn't upset your kitty's pH balance. Plus, it's suitable for cats as young as six weeks, so you can get your pet used to a regular grooming routine.

No.5

Vet's Best
Natural Waterless Cat Bath

Natural Waterless Cat Bath  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Natural Waterless Cat Bath  2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Natural Waterless Cat Bath  3
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£8.00
Low Mid
Reference price
£8.00
Low Mid

A Dry Shampoo Made With Natural Ingredients - No Rinsing Required

Dry shampoo is undoubtedly the way to go if, despite your best efforts, your cat resents getting in the water with every ounce of their being! This offering is a little different from other waterless options around as rather than combing out the spray, you leave it in. It'll then work to moisturise your pet's coat without clogging their pores.


Furthermore, including natural ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and oatmeal will leave them feeling super fresh and wonderfully clean. This product can be used on cats 12 weeks and older and won't affect topical flea control products - always a bonus if you ask us!

No.6

Animology
Feline Great Cat Shampoo

Reference price
£5.50
Low

A 2-In-1 Shampoo Infused With Pro-vitamin B-5 From a Multi-Award Winning Pet Care Company

Animology was born in 1999 and has since gone on to win multiple awards for their pet care products, establishing themselves as market leaders when it comes to cat cleanliness! Their 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner, cheekily titled "Feline Great" is entirely free from parabens and alcohol.


The formula includes aloe vera extract to soothe and protect the skin and pro-vitamin B-5, which is known to nourish kitty coats. While it leaves out most nasties, this product does contain parfum, which may irritate your feline friend if they have a sensitive nose.

No.7

John Paul Pets
Oatmeal Conditioning Rinse

Reference price
£12.18
Mid

A Highly-Concentrated Rinse-Out Conditioner, Ideal for Cats With Sensitive Skin and Long Hair

Technically this is a rinse-out conditioner, but we wanted to include it in our top 10 as it's a brilliant buy for cat owners! It's ideal for cats who have the unique combination of sensitive skin and long hair. The formula not only gives a silky, luxurious feel to their fur but will also aid with moisturising the skin underneath too. 


This formula is highly concentrated, so you don't need to use a lot, and you get loads for your money - especially considering the large size of the bottle. Still, if you're strictly looking for something for cleansing rather than conditioning, skip this one!

No.8

Johnson's
Cat Flea Cleaning Shampoo

Cat Flea Cleaning Shampoo 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£6.58
Low Mid
Reference price
£6.58
Low Mid

Highly Effective Flea Treatment to Cleanse and Deodorise Any Cat Over 8 Weeks Old

This flea treatment shampoo by Johnson's is suitable for cats older than eight weeks and comes highly recommended by Amazon customers. It not only cleanses the coat but deodorises it at the same time - so your cat should come out itch-free, happy, and smelling better. 


Sadly though, information about the ingredients isn't available. As most flea treatment formulas contain chemicals rather than natural ingredients, this product may irritate kitties with sensitive skin.

No.9

TropiClean
Deep Cleaning Waterless Shampoo for Cats

Reference price
£9.00
Low Mid

A Completely Waterless Deep Clean for Especially Mucky Cats

If you've got a mischievous little pal, then you'll know that they often tend to end up in the muckiest of places! Picking up a shampoo that's designed to provide a deep clean is, therefore, an excellent choice, as it'll have your pet gleaming in no time!


This waterless option is easy to use and requires no rinsing; all you need to do is massage it into the fur, then brush it out. However, it does have a strong fragrance, which some cats might not like. Plus, it's a firm foam, so it can be hard to work in around their face - particularly delicate areas like their nose, eyes, and mouth.

Tips on Shampooing Your Cat

Tips on Shampooing Your Cat
  1. Fill the sink or bath: with about 4 inches of warm (not hot!) water. Then, gently but firmly, hold your cat with both hands while you slowly lower them into the bath or sink.
  2. Thoroughly wet your cat's fur: but avoid the face for now if you can. Once they are completely wet, pour a little shampoo onto their body and rub it into the fur to create a nice lather.
  3. Wash the shampoo out: then give them a nice rinse all over to ensure all of the shampoo is out.
  4. Wash your cat's face: by using a flannel or cloth that's been soaked in warm water (without shampoo or soap) and gently wipe their face all over!
  5. Lift your cat out of the sink or bath: and wrap them in a nice warm towel and let them dry off. You can also use a hairdryer to dry them quicker, but only if they're happy for you to do so.
  6. When they are completely dry: comb out their fur to avoid any knots or tangles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Product Should You Use When Shampooing Your Cat?

The recommendation is to use one part shampoo to five parts water. This could be anything from a teaspoon to a handful, depending on the cat's size. It doesn't matter too much if you use more; just ensure it's all been rinsed thoroughly so that nothing remains. 

How Often Should You Shampoo Your Cat?

Many factors affect this, such as if your cat is an indoor or outdoor pet or whether they tend to get particularly dirty or struggle cleaning themselves. But the general recommendation is to bathe them around once every 4-6 weeks.

Top 5 Cat Shampoos

No. 1: EarthbathPet Shampoo

No. 2: Pet HeadStrawberry Lemonade Fizzy Kitty Mousse Cleaner

No. 3: The Healthy Dog CoFlea Shampoo for Dogs & Cats

No. 4: EarthbathWild Cherry 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner

No. 5: Vet's BestNatural Waterless Cat Bath

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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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