Cats generally don't need regular baths, but when they do—whether for medical reasons, after rolling in something unpleasant, or because they need help with grooming—it's essential to use a shampoo specifically labeled for cats. Cat shampoos are pH-balanced for feline skin and free of harsh chemicals that could irritate their sensitive skin and olfactory systems.
In this comprehensive guide, we've researched and compared the best cat shampoos available on Amazon. We've evaluated each product based on safety, gentleness, effectiveness, ease of use, and value. All products reviewed here include direct Amazon purchase links with our affiliate tag.
Quick Answer: Our Top Picks
If you're in a hurry, here are our top recommendations:
- Best Overall: Burt's Bees Waterless Shampoo for Cats - Water-free, pH-balanced, free of sulfates and harsh chemicals
- Best for Kittens: Burt's Bees Natural Tearless Shampoo - Sulfate-free, tear-free design, trusted brand
- Best for Odor: Arm and Hammer 2-in-1 Dander & Odor Control Shampoo - Effective odor reduction, dander control
- Best for Fleas: Adams Plus Flea & Tick Foaming Shampoo - Kills fleas and ticks, foaming formula
- Best for Dry/Sensitive Skin: Burt's Bees Hypoallergenic Cat Shampoo - Gentle formula, suitable for sensitive skin
- Best Wipes: Nootie Waterless Shampoo Wipes - Convenient wipes, waterless cleaning
Understanding Cat Shampoos
Cat shampoos are specifically formulated for feline needs:
- pH-Balanced: Cat skin has a different pH than human skin, requiring specially balanced formulas
- Gentle Ingredients: Free of harsh chemicals that could irritate sensitive cat skin
- Fragrance Considerations: Cats have sensitive olfactory systems, so fragrances should be mild
- Waterless Options: Many cats resist baths, making waterless shampoos valuable
- Specialized Formulas: Options for kittens, sensitive skin, odor control, and flea treatment
Important: Never use human shampoo on cats. Human shampoos are too acidic for cat skin and can cause irritation. Always use a shampoo specifically labeled for cats, and consult your veterinarian if your cat has skin issues or needs frequent bathing.
What to Look for in a Cat Shampoo
When choosing a cat shampoo, consider these important factors:
- pH Balance: Should be pH-balanced specifically for cats
- Gentle Ingredients: Free of sulfates, parabens, and harsh chemicals
- Fragrance: Mild or unscented options are best for sensitive cats
- Waterless vs. Traditional: Consider whether you need a waterless option
- Special Needs: Look for formulas designed for kittens, sensitive skin, or specific issues
- Ease of Use: Consider application method and how easy it is to use
- Veterinarian Recommended: Products recommended by vets are often more reliable
Product Comparison Table
| Product | Type | Special Feature | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burt's Bees Waterless | Waterless spray | No water needed | All-around use | $ |
| Burt's Bees Tearless | Traditional shampoo | Tear-free formula | Kittens | $ |
| Arm and Hammer | Traditional shampoo | Odor & dander control | Odor reduction | $ |
| Adams Plus | Foaming shampoo | Flea & tick treatment | Flea control | $$ |
| Burt's Bees Hypoallergenic | Traditional shampoo | Hypoallergenic | Sensitive skin | $ |
| Nootie Wipes | Waterless wipes | Convenient wipes | Quick cleaning | $$ |
Best Cat Shampoos: Detailed Reviews
1. Burt's Bees Waterless Shampoo for Cats - Best Overall
Burt's Bees Waterless Shampoo for Cats is our top pick for its combination of effectiveness, gentleness, and convenience. This water-free spray is pH-balanced for cats, free of sulfates and harsh chemicals, and works without the need for a full bath—perfect for cats who resist water.
Key Features:
- Water-free formula
- pH-balanced for cats
- Free of sulfates and harsh chemicals
- No parabens
- Mild natural scent
- 10-ounce bottle
Pros:
- No water needed—perfect for cats who resist baths
- pH-balanced specifically for cats
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Mild, natural scent
- Trusted brand
Cons:
- Spray nozzle may be insufficient for very muddy scenarios
- May not be as effective for heavy soiling
- Requires multiple applications for severe messes
Best For: Regular maintenance, cats who resist baths, gentle cleaning, waterless preference
Buy Burt's Bees Waterless Shampoo for Cats on Amazon →2. Burt's Bees Natural Tearless Shampoo - Best for Kittens
Burt's Bees Natural Tearless Shampoo is specifically designed for kittens with its gentle, tear-free formula. Like our top pick, it's sulfate-free and from a trusted brand, making it safe for young cats who need occasional bathing.
Key Features:
- Sulfate-free formula
- Tear-free design
- Safe for kittens
- Trusted brand
- Gentle ingredients
Pros:
- Safe for kittens
- Tear-free formula won't irritate eyes
- Sulfate-free and gentle
- Trusted brand reputation
- Effective cleaning
Cons:
- Not waterless—requires traditional bathing
- May be more challenging to use on resistant cats
Best For: Kittens, gentle bathing needs, tear-free requirement, traditional shampoo preference
Buy Burt's Bees Natural Tearless Shampoo on Amazon →3. Arm and Hammer 2-in-1 Dander & Odor Control Shampoo - Best for Odor
The Arm and Hammer 2-in-1 Dander & Odor Control Shampoo is specifically formulated to reduce odors and control dander, making it perfect for older cats who may not groom themselves as effectively or cats with persistent odors.
Key Features:
- 2-in-1 formula
- Odor control
- Dander reduction
- Effective cleaning
Pros:
- Effective odor reduction
- Helps control dander
- 2-in-1 convenience
- Good value
- Trusted brand
Cons:
- Contains sodium laureth sulphate
- Has added fragrance
- May not be suitable for very sensitive cats
Best For: Odor control, dander reduction, older cats, persistent smell issues
Buy Arm and Hammer 2-in-1 Dander & Odor Control Shampoo on Amazon →4. Adams Plus Flea & Tick Foaming Shampoo - Best for Fleas
Adams Plus Flea & Tick Foaming Shampoo is designed to kill fleas and ticks on contact. This foaming formula makes application easier and provides effective pest control, though it should be used with caution and preferably under veterinary guidance.
Key Features:
- Kills fleas and ticks
- Foaming formula
- Easy application
- Effective pest control
Pros:
- Effective against fleas and ticks
- Foaming formula is easy to apply
- Kills pests on contact
- Trusted brand for pest control
Cons:
- Contains harsh chemicals
- Should be used with caution
- May require veterinary consultation
- Not suitable for frequent use
Best For: Flea and tick treatment, pest control, active infestations, veterinary-guided use
Buy Adams Plus Flea & Tick Foaming Shampoo on Amazon →5. Burt's Bees Hypoallergenic Cat Shampoo - Best for Dry/Sensitive Skin
Burt's Bees Hypoallergenic Cat Shampoo is specifically formulated for cats with dry or sensitive skin. This gentle formula is free of harsh chemicals and designed to soothe and moisturize while cleaning.
Key Features:
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Moisturizing properties
- Free of harsh chemicals
Pros:
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Moisturizing for dry skin
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Trusted brand
Cons:
- Not waterless
- May require more frequent use for severe dryness
Best For: Sensitive skin, dry skin, allergies, gentle cleaning needs
Buy Burt's Bees Hypoallergenic Cat Shampoo on Amazon →6. Nootie Waterless Shampoo Wipes - Best Wipes
Nootie Waterless Shampoo Wipes offer the ultimate convenience for quick cleaning. These pre-moistened wipes allow you to clean your cat without water, making them perfect for spot cleaning or cats who absolutely refuse baths.
Key Features:
- Pre-moistened wipes
- Waterless cleaning
- Convenient and portable
- Easy to use
Pros:
- Ultra-convenient
- No water needed
- Portable for travel
- Easy spot cleaning
- Perfect for resistant cats
Cons:
- May not be as effective for heavy soiling
- Ongoing cost of wipes
- May need multiple wipes for larger cats
Best For: Quick cleaning, travel, spot cleaning, cats who resist baths, convenience
Buy Nootie Waterless Shampoo Wipes on Amazon →How to Bathe Your Cat Safely
Proper bathing technique ensures safety and effectiveness:
- Prepare Everything: Have shampoo, towels, and treats ready before starting
- Choose Right Time: Pick a calm time when your cat is relaxed
- Use Warm Water: Water should be lukewarm, not hot or cold
- Be Gentle: Work slowly and gently, speaking calmly to your cat
- Avoid Face: Keep shampoo away from eyes, ears, and mouth
- Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure all shampoo is rinsed out completely
- Dry Gently: Use soft towels to dry, and keep your cat warm
- Reward: Give treats and praise to make it a positive experience
When to Bathe Your Cat
Cats generally don't need regular baths, but bathing may be necessary when:
- Medical Reasons: Your veterinarian recommends bathing for skin conditions
- Heavy Soiling: Your cat has rolled in something unpleasant or gotten very dirty
- Grooming Assistance: Older cats or cats with mobility issues need help
- Odor Issues: Persistent odors that grooming doesn't resolve
- Flea Treatment: As part of a flea treatment protocol (under vet guidance)
Things to Consider
When choosing and using a cat shampoo, keep these considerations in mind:
- Cat's Age: Kittens may need tearless formulas
- Skin Sensitivity: Cats with sensitive skin need hypoallergenic options
- Bathing Frequency: Only bathe when necessary—cats are self-groomers
- Water Resistance: Consider waterless options for cats who resist baths
- Specific Needs: Choose formulas that address specific issues (odor, fleas, etc.)
- Veterinary Consultation: Consult your vet for skin issues or frequent bathing needs
- Never Use Human Shampoo: Always use cat-specific products
Conclusion
Finding the right cat shampoo depends on your cat's specific needs, whether you need a waterless option, and any special requirements like sensitive skin or odor control. The Burt's Bees Waterless Shampoo for Cats remains our top pick for its convenience and gentleness, but all the products reviewed here are excellent options depending on your specific needs.
Remember, cats are self-groomers and generally don't need regular baths. Only bathe when necessary, always use cat-specific shampoos, and consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about your cat's skin or grooming needs.