The best cat brushes we tested for every coat type

Cats are naturally meticulous groomers, spending up to half their day cleaning themselves. Still, both short- and long-haired cats can benefit from regular grooming with one of the best cat brushes or combs. Routine grooming with a brush or comb removes loose hair and distributes natural skin oils throughout a cat's coat, says Dr. Aimee Simpson, veterinarian and medical director of VCA Cat Hospital of Philadelphia.

To find the best cat grooming tools, we tested 35 different brushes and combs with four cats. Our favorite is the Frisco Mini Combo Brush, a versatile brush that's gentle enough for daily use on both short- and long-haired coats. One side features metal pins for working out small tangles and lifting loose fur, while the other has soft bristles for smoothing the coat, including the more delicate hair around the face.

Read more abouthow Business Insider Reviews researches and tests pet products here.

Our top picks for the best cat brushes

Best overall: Frisco Mini Combo Brush - $6 at Chewy

Best deshedding tool: Andis Deshedding Tool - $28 at Chewy

Best slicker brush: Safari Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush - $19 at Chewy

Best dematting tool: Well & Good Prostyle Dual-Sided Shedding Rake - $24 at Petco

Best comb: Chris Christensen Cat/Carding Buttercomb #013 - $64 at Amazon

Best grooming gloves: HandsOn All-In-One Bathing and Grooming Gloves - $25 at Chewy

How to choose the best brush for your cat

Best overall

Best for: Daily grooming of long- and short-haired cats, removing small tangles and lifting loose fur, gentle grooming of the face, and reaching tight spots

Skip this if: You need to remove large mats or thin out an undercoat.

A gentle, effective combo brush is our go-to for daily use. Over two months of testing, our cats purred and drooled through all five dual-sided brushes we tested, but the Frisco Mini Combo Brush stood out. It's smaller and lighter in the hand than the others, and its small head made it significantly easier to navigate the tight, sensitive nooks where tangles routinely hide on our long-haired cat, like her armpits and chest. It's also sized perfectly to reach her favorite spots, like under her chin.

One side has metal pins that gently worked out small tangles and lifted loose fur from both our long- and short-haired cats, leaving us with a small handful of fur from each after a typical weekly brushing session. The other side has soft bristles that smoothed their coats, picked up any stray hairs left behind, and were gentle enough to use around their faces.

Daniel Lioyryan, a cat groomer at Cats in the City, recommends pin brushes with soft rubber tips. This brush doesn't have those, but its pins have rounded metal tips that didn't hurt when we pressed them into our palms and didn't pierce the skin of a soft plum. Based on our cats' reactions, we think the gentle pressure felt good to them, too.

Loose pins are a common problem we see with pin brushes, whether they catch on a knot and pull out or loosen over time. When we tugged this brush's pins with pliers using medium force, they stayed firmly in place, which gives us confidence it will hold up to plenty of brushing sessions.

Best deshedding tool

Best for: Thinning out a dense undercoat on long- and short-haired cats

Skip this if: You want to remove mats or tangles, or you're looking for a gentle brush for daily or weekly grooming.

Lioyryan recommends using a deshedding tool once a month or every other month to remove excess and compacted fur and thin out dense coats. Of all the tools we tested with short- and long-haired cats, the Andis Pet Deshedding Tool is the most effective for both. With just a few strokes, it removes as much, or more, fur than other tools do in an entire brushing session.

The effectiveness of the Andis deshedder lies in its curved metal teeth, which reach beneath the topcoat to pull hair from the undercoat. The teeth gently catch and remove hair without causing discomfort or skin irritation. One of our cats loved being brushed with this tool, and the teeth's hooked design prevented us from accidentally nicking or over-raking their skin. The tool itself is lightweight, and its handle is easy to grip. The head is about 4.5 inches wide, an ideal size for getting the job done quickly yet small enough to fit into hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.

The only drawback is that the deshedder leaves behind a thin layer of loose fur on the topcoat. Lioyryan recommends using a comb or slicker brush after deshedding to remove leftover loose fur.

Best slicker

Best for: Daily grooming of short- and long-haired cats, lifting loose fur from short-haired undercoats.

Skip this if: Your cat has mats or a very dense, plush coat.

"Slicker brushes are often a cat's favorite," Lioyryan says. He adds that they are particularly useful for removing loose fur from the coat's outer layer and gripping the short strands of a short-haired cat's undercoat. For long-haired cats, a slicker brush is ideal for light daily brushing and catching pin knots, small mats, and loose clumps of fur. The Safari Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush accomplishes all this but stands out for its brush head size and retractable pins.

Safari's lightweight slicker brush has an ergonomic handle with rubber grips. Its 3-by-2-inch paddle with 288 stainless steel pins is agile enough to get into hard-to-reach places. When the pins are full of hair, simply press a button on the back to push the front plate forward and dislodge the hair.

While the brush couldn't remove every mat on a long-haired cat, it did a great job helping us combat those on the chest and under the arms. You'll need to remove tougher tangles with a comb or dematting tool. If your cat's coat is severely matted, it's important to take your cat to a veterinarian who can safely remove the mats. "Never try to cut mats out of your cat's hair with scissors," Simpson says. "This can lead to accidental laceration of the skin."

Best dematting tool

Best for: Removing stubborn mats and deshedding long- and short-haired cats with one tool.

Skip this if: The mat is too large to work out yourself, as severely matted coats require help from a veterinarian.

While you can use a comb to remove mats from your long-haired cat, you may find a rake is easier to maneuver. Lioyryan says the best dematting rakes have sharp, curved tines that dislodge mats with minimal pulling. Our top pick, the Well & Good Prostyle Dual-Sided Shedding Rake, stands out for its superior ability to grip and remove pesky mats. Keep in mind, however, that this type of tool is not appropriate for large, tight mats and is likely to cause pain if used to remove them.

This versatile two-sided tool has an ergonomic handle with rubber grips and a 3-inch wide head. On one side of the head is a seven-toothed dematting tool, and on the other, there is a deshedder with 13 teeth. In one fell swoop, you can turn the tool over in your hand to go from dematting to deshedding, removing excess fur and preventing new mats from forming.

Although our long-haired cat had no stubborn mats during testing, the tool performed well in our simulated dematting tests. We also found it incredibly easy to use the dematting side along our cat's tummy to eliminate tangles, then quickly flip to the deshedding side to thin her fur. While this rake may not remove as much hair as the Andis Deshedding Tool, it effectively clears away loose fur on long- and short-haired cats.

The only downsides are the rake's price and the lack of metal hardware connecting the teeth to the tool. Lioyryans says all-metal hardware will prove the most durable. For a more budget-friendly two-in-one tool, the Maxpower Planet Pet 2-in-1 Rake is a good option, though it's slightly heavier and has a larger head that may prove challenging when removing mats from tight underarm spots.

Best comb

Best for: Working out small mats and tangles in long-haired cats' fur, and picking up loose hair after deshedding

Skip this if: You'd rather have a comb with a handle, or your cat has large or severe mats that require help from a groomer or veterinarian

Long-haired cats are prone to developing tangled mats in their undercoat, causing discomfort and, in some cases, leading to illness. "Matting causes the hair to pull at the skin, which is painful," Simpson says. At the hind end, urine and feces may also stick to mats, increasing the risk of skin and urinary tract infections.

The best comb to smooth out matted fur is Chris Christensen's Cat/Carding Buttercomb #013, says Loel Miller, owner of Mobile Grooming by Loel. We found she was right. It excelled at digging into mats and untangling the fur caught within them. We also like using it as a finishing tool after deshedding, running it through the coat to pick up any loose hair the rake leaves behind.

The lightweight comb has stainless steel teeth embedded in a solid 6-inch spine. The teeth alternate in a pattern of long and short tines. The comb has no real handle, just about a quarter-inch-wide ridge that runs its length. It turns out that the lack of a handle makes this comb more versatile and easier to use — it can be held comfortably at any angle to work out tangles.

Best grooming gloves

Best for: Cats who are sensitive to brushing, removing fur, dirt, and dander from the top coat

Skip this if: You need to work out tangles or remove fur from the undercoat

Cats who refuse to be groomed with a brush or a comb may tolerate grooming gloves, which fit closely to the natural shape of your palm. "Using a grooming glove or a soft rubber grooming brush can acclimate your cat to the feeling of being brushed in a gentle way," Simpson says.

Compared with all of the other brushes and combs we tested, gloves are the worst at removing hair from a cat's coat. However, if your cat is sensitive to brushing, gloves will help remove some fur, dirt, and dander. The well-constructed HandsOn Grooming Gloves are the best of the brands we tested. The rubber palms are covered with rounded nubs, three clumps on each finger and two on the thumb. The other side of the glove is made of strong nylon fabric with a velcro wrist closure that keeps it secure.

The gloves come in five sizes, from junior to extra large. As an average-sized woman, the medium pair fits me comfortably. Unlike the other gloves we tested, these didn't feel overly bulky. The gloves can be used dry or wet, and so far, they have not cracked, torn, or grown mildew.

What to look for in a cat brush

We spoke to three professional groomers and two veterinarians to narrow down the best cat brushes for every coat type and budget. They recommend keeping the following features in mind when shopping for cat grooming tools:

Shape and length: The shape of the brush directly impacts how well the brush removes fur and mats, especially from hard-to-reach places. Dematting and shedding brushes with small heads, like Andis Pet Deshedding Tool and Well & Good Prostyle Dual-Sided Shedding Rake, are great for reaching problematic areas such as under the limbs. The moderate length of the Chris Christensen Buttercomb's teeth angles along the body, effectively tackling tough knots and mats.

Function: Not all brushes serve the same purpose, and you'll need more than one in your arsenal to address all of your cat's grooming needs.

• Pin brushes: These brushes are gentle enough for daily use. The metal tines effectively tackle minor tangles, while the rubber tips provide a gentle, massaging sensation without poking your cat.
• Bristle brushes: The nylon bristles remove loose hair from the topcoat and ensure the rest of the coat is smooth and lying in the same direction, which will help prevent future mats and tangles. A combo pin and bristle brush is particularly suitable for multi-cat households with both short- and long-haired cats.
• Slicker brushes: These are effective for light daily brushing, removing loose fur, and managing small tangles. The metal tines are numerous and slightly bent at the ends, making them especially useful for grabbing loose hairs from the undercoat of short-haired cats.
• Skip tooth combs: This type of comb has a single row of steel tines with alternating lengths, designed to penetrate the undercoat of long-haired cats. If a comb has teeth that are all the same length and closely spaced, you might push the undercoat down instead of effectively brushing through it, says Lioyran. Combs are the ideal weekly or as-needed tool for small mats and grooming following a deshedding.
• Deshedding tools or rakes: These tools have curved times to grip and remove excess fur. The number of tines varies, and Lioyryan says you might need to experiment with several deshedding rakes before finding the one that best suits your cat. He recommends using deshedding rakes monthly or every other month to eliminate loose fur and thin out thick coats. Even short-haired cats require deshedding, given their higher hair follicle count than long-haired cats, according to Lioyryan.
• Dematting rakes: If a stubborn mat pops up, a dematting rake is the best tool. Our experts strongly advise against using scissors on your cat's fur. Lioyryan recommends dematting tools with curved tines rather than straight ones because they tend to have a better grip.
• Grooming gloves: These are gentle enough to acclimate cats to grooming and are less likely to overstimulate cats who are sensitive to touch.
• Curry brushes: These versatile brushes with rubber nubs effectively remove loose hair, massage your pet, remove hair from clothing and upholstery, and lather shampoo during baths.

Comfort: The tines of a brush shouldn't poke and prod at your cat, and a tool should never excessively tug at the fur. To ensure your cat's comfort, opt for a pin brush with rubber-tipped tines and slickers with a soft brush pad that allows the tines to move with the curvature of your cat's bones. The best cat brushes also have ergonomic and rubber handles for the groomer's comfort.

Some cats may still dislike their grooming tools even if they check all the right boxes for comfort. "Just like people, some cats love being brushed, and they tolerate tension on their fur very well. Other cats do not," Lioyryan says. "If a cat doesn't like a particular tool, it doesn't necessarily mean that the tool is wrong." He suggests holding the skin taut to reduce pulling when using a deshedding rake and being mindful when brushing over bones.

Introducing your cat to grooming tools early increases the likelihood that they will tolerate and even enjoy the grooming process. For cats sensitive to grooming, grooming gloves such as HandsOn All-In-One Gloves may be the best option.

How we tested the best cat brushes

To identify the most effective cat brushes and combs for this guide, we conducted the following tests with 35 brushes and combs.

Hair removal test: To objectively compare the brushes in the deshedding tool and slicker brush categories, we used a different grooming tool for one to three days to give our tester cats — two short-haired cats and two long-haired cats — a complete brushing. The removed hair was placed in labeled plastic bags that were laid side by side to reveal which tool removed the most.

Ease of use test: While using each grooming tool, we evaluated the following characteristics:

• How easy the tool was to use overall
• The weight of the tool
• The size of the tool and how well it fit in our hands
• How well the tool accessed hard-to-reach places
• How easy the tool was to clean after use
• The durability of the tool

Dematting test: This test was devised for the products in the dematting comb category. For each comb, we began by rolling, mashing, and entangling a large pile of undercoat fur removed from a long-haired cat using a deshedding tool. We then attempted to restore the fur to its smooth, unmatted state with the comb. The top three tools went on to tackle the small mats on one of our tester cat's chest and under his forelegs, where he has trouble reaching during grooming. The comb that dematted the hair most easily and efficiently was declared the winner.

Cat brush FAQs

What is the best type of brush to use on a cat?

The right brush for your cat depends on their coat type, specific grooming needs, and individual preferences for touch. For most cats, a combination pin-and-bristle brush is the best choice for everyday grooming, whether they have short or long hair. The pins remove loose hair and small tangles while the bristles smooth the top coat. However, a single brush can't meet every grooming need. Long-haired cats require monthly or every-other-month grooming with a deshedding rake, comb, or pin brush to remove loose fur and handle small tangles. To handle bigger knots and mats, you'll need a dematting tool. If you have a short-haired cat, you can skip the comb but should use a slicker or pin brush to tackle small tangles and remove loose hair from the undercoat. You may also need a deshedding rake and a dematting tool. Some cats may prefer the gentle touch of a soft rubber curry comb rather than a pin or slicker brush. A grooming glove is another good option for short-haired cats, particularly if they are sensitive to handling.

Are cat brushes good for cats?

Yes. Brushing removes loose hair and dead skin cells that would otherwise be swallowed during self-grooming or shed around your home. Reducing the amount of hair a cat consumes can help minimize hairballs. Brushing also distributes natural oils throughout the coat to keep it shiny, stimulates blood circulation, and helps strengthen the bond between a cat and their caregiver if the cat enjoys the experience.

How often should you brush your cat's fur?

Opinions differ even among professionals regarding how often a cat should be brushed. The ASPCA recommends brushing your cat once or twice a week to keep your cat's coat healthy. VCA Animal Hospitals recommends daily brushing, particularly for cats with long hair or a thick coat. Pet groomer Melissa Tillman's rule of thumb is to brush your cat as often as they will let you. Harper doesn't have a universal rule but recommends running your hands, if not a brush or comb, over your cat's body at least once daily. Older cats that cannot groom themselves may need more regular sessions than younger cats.

How often should I use a deshedding tool on my long-haired or thick-coated cat?

Lioyryan recommends using a deshedding tool on long and short-haired cats once a month to every other month. Afterward, brush them with a skip tooth comb, slicker brush, or pin brush.

How long should I brush my cat?

Rather than brushing for a set amount of time, pay close attention to your cat's body language. If they become agitated or try to move away from the brush or comb, stop the session and pick it up again later.

How do you brush an unwilling cat?

The earlier you start introducing your cat to brushing, the better. "Kittens that are regularly groomed and have their nails trimmed become used to being handled," Simpson says. To help set your cat up for success, she recommends positioning them in a comfortable, quiet area and pairing gentle brush strokes or combing with delicious treats. Lickable treats, such as Inaba Churu, are especially high-value for many cats. You can spread food on a Lickimat or scatter treats in front of your cat to keep your hands free. Simpson says cats are less likely to be anxious if you work alone without restraining them. When it comes to all home care routines for cats, using a positive, cooperative care approach supports the human-cat bond.

Should cats go to groomers?

If you have a cat who dislikes being brushed, don't hesitate to hire a groomer to do the basics. "It's best not to push the limits of a cat where you are in danger of being injured," Miller says. Cats who are easily stressed during trips to the groomer may benefit from a mobile grooming service that will come to your home. Anytime a cat is heavily matted, it's best to consult your veterinarian.

The post The best cat brushes we tested for every coat type appeared first on Business Insider