Cat Shampoos and Conditioners

There may come a time when your cat needs help cleaning themselves, maybe they’ve fallen into something sticky that they can’t remove or they’re prone to rolling in something particularly stinky that no amount of licking and self-grooming will make smell better. Some cats with joint or dental issues find cleaning themselves too difficult whilst those with urinary problems may frequently miss the litter tray and soil themselves. Shampoos and conditioners come in a variety of scents and there are some specifically designed to help treat common problems such as itchiness, dryness, and sensitivity. 

Oatmeal Shampoo

If your cat suffers from inflamed, itchy, flaky, dry skin or has a particularly greasy coat, then oatmeal shampoo and conditioner can help get these complaints under control. Colloidal oatmeal helps to soothe and moisturise the skin whilst leaving the coat soft and shiny. It differs from the regular oatmeal you eat for breakfast as it contains bran as well as natural oils and moisturisers. 

Many oatmeal shampoos and conditioners have the added ingredients of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which will work alongside the colloidal oatmeal ingredient to help calm inflamed skin and help restore your cat’s natural moisture balance for a healthy skin and coat. 

Flea Shampoo 

We hope you never have to deal with these pesky parasites, but if your outdoor cat has picked up unwanted friends, a flea shampoo will help get rid of them quickly. These shampoos kill fleas on contact and will require you to leave on the coat for a specified amount of time so it is important to follow instructions thoroughly so that they work to their full potential. It may take a few applications to get rid of the fleas fully, especially if your cat has a heavy flea burden and it is recommended that you use a flea comb to brush through the coat after bathing with the shampoo to help get rid of any lingering fleas. 

I can still see fleas on my cat, has the shampoo worked?

You may see fleas on your cat after bathing but, as long as you have left the shampoo on for the recommended time, these will be dying and are visible as they are trying to get off your cat. Going through your cat’s coat with a flea comb will help determine how many applications of shampoo are needed. 

I used a flea shampoo but my cat still has fleas, help! 

Check that you have followed the instructions on the shampoo, especially for how regular it should be used and for how long it needs to be left on your cat’s coat before rinsing. Flea shampoos, although effective in treating fleas, are not preventative. This means they do not stop your cat from getting fleas so it is always advised to use a monthly flea preventative. Also, make sure you treat your home as fleas lay eggs in carpets and upholstery, and with central heating, this means these eggs will hatch all year round. Always discuss flea preventatives with your veterinarian. 

Can I use flea shampoos on my kitten?

Always check the recommended age range on your flea shampoo before using it on your kitten. Kittens are very sensitive to certain ingredients used in these shampoos. If you have any concerns, contact your veterinarian.

Kitten Shampoos

Do you have a bundle of fluff that never seems to stay clean? Kittens love getting into trouble and as they are still learning to use their litter trays, often get a bit stinky! Kitten shampoos are designed to be gentle on the skin but still clean thoroughly, locking in moisture to look after the developing coat and have the added benefit of an appealing scent that won’t upset your kitten.