Best Cat Brushes for Shedding and Undercoat (2026)
Sam's paws-on picks. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Not veterinary advice.
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I am a British Shorthair mix. My coat is dense, plush and, according to my human, everywhere.
Regular brushing removes loose fur before it ends up on your sofa, reduces hairballs and keeps the coat healthy. The right tool depends on your cat's coat and patience. Here's what works.
Quick comparison
| Pick | Best for | Sam's take | |
|---|---|---|---|
| FURminator Deshedding Tool for Cats | Best for undercoat | Removes loose undercoat fast | Check price |
| Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush | Best everyday brush | Gentle pins, one-click cleaning | Check price |
| Grooming Glove for Cats | Best for brush-haters | Feels like petting | Check price |
| Steel Grooming Comb | Best for long hair and mats | Find tangles before they mat | Check price |
The picks, reviewed
FURminator Deshedding Tool for Cats
A fine steel edge reaches through the topcoat and pulls out loose undercoat. Very effective on dense-coated cats. Use light strokes and not too often, since overdoing it can irritate skin.
Good: removes a lot of loose fur, great for shedding season
Not so good: use gently; not for every day on thin-coated cats
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Fine bent pins detangle and lift loose fur, and a button retracts the pins so the fur slides off. Good for daily brushing on most coat types.
Good: gentle, easy to clean, works on most coats
Not so good: press lightly; pins can scratch if you push hard
Grooming Glove for Cats
Rubber nubs on a glove catch loose fur while you pet. Many cats who run from brushes tolerate this. Less thorough, but far better than nothing.
Good: cats accept it, easy to use
Not so good: less effective on thick undercoat
Steel Grooming Comb
A simple metal comb with wide and narrow teeth. Great for checking long-haired cats for tangles behind the ears, under the arms and on the belly.
Good: cheap, precise, lasts forever
Not so good: not enough on its own for heavy shedders
How often should you brush a cat?
Short-haired cats: once or twice a week, more in spring and fall shedding season. Long-haired cats: every day or every other day to prevent mats.
How to brush a cat who hates being brushed
- Keep sessions short. One or two minutes, then stop while it's still pleasant.
- Start where they like being petted, usually cheeks and back.
- Reward with treats during and after.
- Try a glove first if the brush itself is the problem.
- Never pull mats. Severe mats should be handled by a groomer or vet.
When shedding isn't normal
Bald patches, red skin, scabs or sudden heavy shedding can be signs of a skin problem, parasites or stress. Check with your vet.
FAQ
What is the best brush for a cat that sheds a lot?
A deshedding tool like the FURminator removes loose undercoat on thick-coated cats. Use it gently and pair it with a slicker brush for everyday brushing.
How often should I brush my cat?
Short-haired cats once or twice a week, more during shedding season. Long-haired cats daily or every other day.
Does brushing reduce hairballs?
Yes. Brushing removes loose fur before your cat swallows it while grooming, which usually means fewer hairballs.
Can you over-brush a cat?
Yes, especially with deshedding tools. Use light strokes and stop if the skin looks red or your cat gets upset.