About Cat Shampoo

In the animal world, cats are among the most fastidious in keeping themselves clean. Unless the feline spends a good deal of time outdoors where it is subject to dirt and fleas, shampooing need not be done on a regular basis. Some owners, however, choose to shampoo their cats frequently. In such cases, it is important to use quality products.

Reasons for Shampooing a Cat

Other than applying a flea and tick shampoo to rid a cat of infestation, regular shampooing is done more for the benefit of the owner rather than the animal. Even longhaired cats, whose coats are subject to matting, benefit more from frequent brushing than shampooing. Still, special de-matting shampoos are available should the owner choose to use them. Many cat owners utilize shampoos to enhance the luster of their pet's coat. While few cats carry an odor, aromatic shampoos are applied to embellish them with an artificial fragrance. Cats that are shown at professional breeding expositions tend to be shampooed often in order that they might look their best for the judges.

Varieties of Cat Shampoos

• Human shampoos should not be used on cats. They can be a harsh irritant or even toxic. For the budget conscious, however, an occasional washing with mild baby shampoo and conditioner is not harmful. Sporadic spots of oily dirt or other staining materials can be treated with baby wipes.


• Like high quality cat food, the best shampoos also tend to be the most expensive. They will contain no parabens, which is a chemical preservative used in cosmetics and deodorants and suspected of causing tumors. Veterinarians and professional groomers can recommend the safest and most effective products. Top brands will emphasize gentleness, low-foaming, soapless shampoos.


• Dry shampoos are also commercially available and do a beneficial cleaning job without foam and water. A homemade version, consisting of oatmeal or cornmeal, is as effective and more cost-conscious. The oatmeal or cornmeal is baked in the oven until warm, rubbed into the cat's coat with a towel and brushed out afterwards.