The Best Cat Grooming Brushes

The Best Cat Grooming Brushes: Cats are famously clean animals. Their natural grooming instincts help them stay tidy, but they still need human help especially long-haired breeds or older cats who can’t groom as effectively. One of the easiest and most important ways to support your cat’s grooming routine is with the right brush.

Not only does brushing remove loose fur and prevent mats, but it also improves circulation, reduces hairballs, and strengthens your bond with your feline friend.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best cat grooming brushes available in 2025, breaking down which ones are best for different fur types, grooming goals, and cat personalities. Whether your cat loves being pampered or resists the brush like it’s their nemesis, there’s a solution that fits.

Why Grooming Matters

Before jumping into product picks, it’s important to understand why grooming is essential for your cat:

• Prevents matting and tangles
• Reduces shedding and fur around the house
• Lowers the risk of hairballs
• Promotes healthy skin and circulation
• Helps detect fleas, ticks, or skin issues early
• Strengthens trust and bonding

The best grooming experience starts with choosing the right brush for your cat’s fur type and temperament.

Best Cat Grooming Brushes of 2025

1. Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

Best for: Long-haired and shedding cats
Price: ~$25

This is a perennial favorite among pet owners. It features fine, bent wires that reach deep into the undercoat without scratching your cat’s skin. The best part? A button retracts the bristles, instantly ejecting trapped fur.

Why we love it:

• Ideal for de-shedding
• Ergonomic handle for comfort
• Easy cleanup with one-button self-cleaning
• Reduces matting and dander buildup

Best for: Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and other long-haired breeds.

2. Furminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool (2025 Edition)

Best for: Heavy shedders
Price: ~$35

The Furminator is the gold standard in deshedding tools. It reaches deep into the undercoat to remove loose hair without cutting the skin or topcoat. It’s incredibly effective—use it weekly to significantly reduce shedding.

Why we love it:

• Stainless steel edge
• Skin guard to prevent poking
• Curved design for comfort
• Helps reduce hairballs

Best for: Cats with thick coats that shed seasonally.

3. SleekEZ Original Deshedding Grooming Tool

Best for: All coat types
Price: ~$20

SleekEZ uses a unique wave pattern on its stainless steel blade to remove dirt, dander, and loose hair gently. Unlike many brushes, it works on all fur types and is excellent for sensitive cats.

Why we love it:

• No tugging or pulling
• Simple wooden handle
• Reduces airborne fur
• Durable and rust-resistant

Best for: Cats who dislike typical brushes or are new to grooming.

4. HandsOn Grooming Gloves

Best for: Nervous or brush-shy cats
Price: ~$30

These flexible gloves feature rubber nodules on the palms and fingers. Just stroke your cat like you’re petting them—no intimidating brushes involved. They’re perfect for anxious cats or those who love affection.

Why we love it:

• Mimics petting for bonding
• Works on wet or dry fur
• Easy to clean and store
• Great for bath time, too

Best for: Kittens or cats who resist traditional grooming tools.

5. JW Pet GripSoft Cat Slicker Brush

Best for: Short to medium coats
Price: ~$12

Lightweight and affordable, this brush is gentle yet effective. Its angled pins remove loose hair and dander without irritating sensitive skin. The soft grip handle is especially helpful during longer grooming sessions.

Why we love it:

• Budget-friendly
• Gentle on skin
• Ergonomic design
• Compact and easy to store

Best for: Domestic Shorthairs or Abyssinians.

6. Safari Cat Shedding Comb

Best for: Removing tangles and undercoat
Price: ~$14

This comb is a great follow-up to brushing sessions. It detangles while reaching deep into thick undercoats. The rounded tips make it gentle on skin while being incredibly effective at removing buildup.

Why we love it:

• Dual-length teeth for full coverage
• Smooth, skin-safe tips
• Ideal for finishing touches after brushing

Best for: Persian or Himalayan cats with double coats.

7. Pawradise Cat Grooming Comb with Rotating Teeth

Best for: Sensitive skin
Price: ~$18

Designed to minimize tugging, the rotating teeth of this comb move with the fur rather than against it. This makes it especially good for elderly cats or those prone to skin issues.

Why we love it:

• Rotating teeth reduce pulling
• Removes loose fur and small mats
• Compact for travel or home use

Best for: Senior cats or those recovering from skin allergies.

READ ALSO: 10 Tips for Caring for a Pregnant Dog

Tips for Choosing the Right Brush

1. Match the Brush to Your Cat’s Coat Type

• Short hair: Slicker brushes, rubber grooming gloves
• Medium/long hair: Undercoat rakes, deshedding tools, pin brushes
• Curly or fine hair: Wide-toothed combs or gentle detanglers

2. Consider Your Cat’s Temperament

If your cat is timid or brush-averse, start with gloves or a soft-bristled brush to acclimate them.

3. Check for Comfort and Grip

Choose brushes with ergonomic handles or gloves that reduce wrist strain, especially if you groom regularly.

How to Make Brushing a Positive Experience

1. Start slow: Let your cat sniff the brush and explore it first.
2. Use treats: Reward with snacks during and after brushing.
3. Brush gently: Avoid yanking on tangles—use detanglers or combs.
4. Choose the right time: Brush when your cat is relaxed, like after meals.
5. Keep sessions short: End before they get restless, and build up duration over time.

FAQs

How often should I brush my cat?

It depends on the coat. Short-haired cats usually need brushing once or twice a week, while long-haired cats benefit from daily brushing to prevent mats.

What’s the best brush for a cat that hates being groomed?

Try grooming gloves or soft-bristle brushes. Cats that hate grooming often do better when brushing feels like petting.

Can brushing help reduce hairballs?

Yes! Regular brushing removes loose fur before it can be ingested, significantly reducing hairball formation.

Is it normal for cats to shed year-round?

Yes, especially indoor cats exposed to artificial lighting. However, seasonal shedding increases during spring and fall.

Are there grooming brushes specifically for kittens?

Yes. Choose gentler brushes or gloves for kittens with fine fur and sensitive skin. Always supervise closely and be extra gentle.

Should I bathe my cat before brushing?

Generally, brushing before bathing is more effective to remove loose fur and tangles. Only bathe cats if necessary, using cat-safe shampoo.

What should I do if I find mats in my cat’s fur?

Use a detangling comb or a mat splitter gently. Never yank or cut mats unless you’re trained—seek help from a professional groomer or vet if needed.