So, are you considering getting a new cat? Congratulations! If this is your first cat, you may wonder which supplies your new cat will need once you bring them home. For example, what do you need to keep your cat clean and tidy? While your cat’s needs will vary somewhat based on their coat type, here are 10 essential cat grooming supplies to get you started.
The 10 Essential Cat Grooming Tools
1. Shampoo
- Our Picks: Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo
Yes, cats sometimes need a bath too. While you probably won’t bathe your cat as often as you would a dog that goes out and rolls in the mud, you should still be prepared by stocking up on bathing supplies. When bathing a cat, you need a shampoo made for pets and human formulas should be avoided. Pet shampoos do not dry out your cat’s skin and coat like human shampoo.
Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is a pH-balanced option made with natural ingredients. Oatmeal keeps your cat’s skin and coat moist while cleaning it. Hepper’s soap-free shampoo is made in the USA and has a lovely cucumber and aloe scent.
2. Brush your teeth
- Our Picks: Frisco Cat and Dog Pin Bristle Brush
A sturdy brush is one of the most important tools for grooming your cat. If your cat has long hair, you probably use a brush every day to keep his coat tangle-free. Short-haired kittens don’t need to be brushed as often, but the activity is a great way to bond with your cat while reducing the amount of shedding.
The Frisco Cat and Dog Pin Bristle Brush is a great all-around model because it has bristles suitable for both long and short coats. The brush is gentle and easy to use, but it doesn’t have a self-cleaning feature.
3. Nail clippers
- Our Picks: JW Pet Gripsoft Cat Nail Clippers
If your new cat is a kitten, start nail trimming as soon as possible. The sooner your cat gets used to having their paws touched and their nails clipped, the easier your life will be as they grow. Cats spend a lot of time scratching and sharpening their nails, but you need to keep them trimmed regularly.
Ingrown toenails can be run over and torn or grow into paw pads, and sharp nails can damage your furniture or other pets. JW Pet Gripsoft Cat Nail Clippers are the right size for your kitty’s paws. The easy-grip handle is designed for left- and right-handed people.
4. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Our Picks: CET Dog and Cat Poultry-flavored Toothpaste and Toothbrush Kit
A cat’s mouth can be dirty, and you need to make dental care a regular part of your cat’s grooming routine. Again, teaching your cat to accept the process when they are young is your best option. Choose a toothpaste designed for pets rather than a human brand.
The CET Dog and Cat Poultry-flavored Toothpaste and Toothbrush kit has everything you need to keep your cat’s teeth clean. The delicious toothpaste acts as a treat for your cat while you brush. The CET toothbrush head is small and set at an angle, which is ideal for reaching the corners of a smaller cat’s mouth.
5. Comb
- Our Picks: Andis Steel Pet Comb
For long-haired cats, such as Maine Coons or Ragdolls, you need a comb and brush. Combs remove dirt and mats from your cat’s coat and provide a final fluff so your cat always looks Instagram-ready.
The Andis Steel Pet Comb is lightweight and features coarse and fine teeth for all areas of the cat’s body. Because it is made of stainless steel, the Andis comb is more durable than other brands. It is well tolerated by most cats, based on user reviews.
6. Ear Cleaner
- Our Picks: Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner for Dogs and Cats
Some cats rarely need to have their ears cleaned, while others need weekly swabbing. If your cat suffers from frequent ear infections, your vet may instruct you to clean their ears more often. Be prepared by stocking a pet-formulated ear-cleaning solution with your grooming supplies.
Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner for Dogs and Cats is often sold and recommended by veterinarians. The solution is gentle on your cat’s ears and helps reduce odors. You can use a cotton ball or pad to wipe off the excess cleaner.
7. Dental Water Additive
- Our Picks: OxyFresh Premium Cat and Dog Dental Water Additive
If you’re worried that you don’t have time or your cat can’t tolerate brushing, a dental water additive is an easy way to provide dental care for your kitty. Although it doesn’t provide the same cleaning action as brushing, a dental water additive can fight tartar and keep your kitty’s breath fresh.
OxyFresh Premium Cat and Dog Dental Water Additive is odorless and tasteless, increasing the chances that your cat will drink it. It is non-toxic and also made in the USA. It helps reduce plaque and fight bad breath.
8. Pet Wipes
- Our Picks: Hepper Wash Wipes
Pet wipes provide a handy solution when your cat needs a quick cleanup instead of a full bath. You can also use them at bath time to easily clean your cat’s face and paws. Choosing pet-safe wipes over those designed for babies ensures that your cat’s skin won’t be irritated.
Hepper wash wipes are hypoallergenic and designed to clean and deodorize your cat. They are durable enough to rub your cat with and feature a refreshing scent.
9. Deshedding Tool
- Our Picks: Furminator Long Hair Cat Deshedding Tool
You’ll need a slightly stiffer than traditional brush and comb for cats that shed a lot. Deshedding tools are designed to reach the cat’s undercoat and remove as much loose hair as possible. They can reduce the amount of hair in your home while keeping your cat away from uncomfortable mats.
The Furminator Long Hair Cat Deshedding Tool is durable, comfortable to hold, and won’t damage your cat’s skin when used as directed. It features a handy “Furjector” function for easy cleaning. The Furminator removes excess hair without the need for excessive pressure and is generally tolerated by cats, based on user reviews.
10. Grooming Gloves
- Our Picks: HandsOn All-In-One Pet Bathing and Grooming Gloves
For sensitive cats or older adoptees who have never learned to brush, grooming gloves can be an effective tool to get them up to speed on a coat care routine. Your cat will think you’re just petting him, but you’re removing dead hair and helping his coat stay shiny and clean. Mitts are most effective for cats with short hair and cannot remove stubborn tangles or mats.
HandsOn All-In-One Pet Bathing and Grooming Gloves can be used inside the bath or outside. They collect loose hair as you “comb” your cat instead of sending it into the cloud. The gloves are relatively easy to clean, but some users have reported that fine hair is difficult to remove from the gloves. However, your cat will probably enjoy a massage while you groom his coat.
Conclusion
Regardless of the length or type of your cat’s coat, it needs regular grooming to keep it healthy. Even hairless cats need frequent bathing or wiping to keep their skin moisturized and in good condition. These 10 essential cat grooming tools should give you everything you need to get started when you bring your new pet home. If you are unsure or unsure of how to do grooming tasks like nail trims, ask your vet or their staff to teach you all their tips and tricks.
Featured Image Credit: RJ22, Shutterstock
