As a pet parent you may be wondering what is a slicker brush for cats. Grooming is an essential part of looking after your cat, whatever length of hair, so finding the right brush is paramount.
There are a variety of different grooming brushes for cats available, but how do you know which is best? Certain brushes like the slicker can be used on either long or short haired cats, whereas rakes and pin brushes are best for those with long hair.
What is a slicker brush?
Slicker brushes have very thin wire teeth closely packed together. As they’re angled slightly there’s less danger of scratching the skin. However, having said that, the wires are very sharp, so too much pressure could damage your cat’s delicate skin.
Slicker brushes can be used on both cats and dogs and are great for removing dead hair. This type of brush is especially good for breeds with thick undercoats such as Persians. Always make sure you buy the correct size slicker brush as those for large dogs will be a lot bigger and not suitable for cats.
Some brush heads even have a button for ejecting loose hair, making it easy to clean. There’s nothing worse than having to keep stopping during a grooming session so you can pull piles of hair from the brush.
How to use a slicker brush
Basically, slicker brushes are very easy to use, but you should always start by looking for any tangles or mats first. Use a wide toothed comb for removing knots just as you would your own hair.
If tangles are stubborn, try gently pulling apart with your fingers. Sometimes this works fine, just as it does for us long haired humans, but if your cat gets agitated, take a break.
Use gentle pressure as you brush your cat to avoid scratching, especially if she has short hair. You’ll find these brushes are great for removing dirt and debris. This is a plus particularly for long haired cats. It’s not uncommon for leaves and bits of twig to stuck in the tail and ruff area of the chest.
Another benefit of using a slicker brush on your cat is it helps distribute natural oils giving a nice shiny appearance and improving coat condition. Never use a slicker brush on your cat if she has broken skin, infections, or flea bites. Always treat those first, and allow damaged skin to heal.
Which is the best slicker brush for your cat
The following slicker brushes are recommended based on research and my own opinions. I will get a small commission if you buy through my links, but this in no way reflects the price you pay.
Shed Titan Self Cleaning Slicker Brush & Dematting Pet Comb Value Kit
The Shed Titan slicker brush has a non-slip handle making it easy to grip. In addition, a handy self cleaning button allows you to remove all hairs quickly and easily.
This is a great feature if you’re grooming a Persian or other breed with thick under coats.
The additional detangler comb makes this a great value product. The comb has both long and short teeth for easy removal of tangles. It’s also great for removing mats. Always comb in the direction of growth as combing in the opposite direction will feel uncomfortable.
It’s claimed this brush can be used on both long haired and short haired cats making it very versatile. This may be ideal for you if you have a multi-cat household.
The brush and comb are available in an attractive bright yellow color making them a pleasure to use. Make sure you thoroughly clean grooming tools after each use. This helps avoid spreading any fleas that may be on your cat’s coat.
The thing I like about this brush is it comes in a kit with a grooming comb. You don’t always get the best deal buying tools separately, and in addition they’re color coordinated!
Average rating 4.7 out of 5
You can buy Shed Titan Self Cleaning Slicker Brush & Dematting Pet Comb here
Pet Craft Supply Self Cleaning Calming Slicker Pet Grooming Brush for Dogs and Cats with Short to Long Hair
Pet Craft slicker brush has stainless steel pins for a longer lasting product. Stainless steel is tough and very durable, while an ergonomically designed head makes the brush comfortable to use. In addition, an easy grip handle prevents accidents while giving added comfort.
The self cleaning button makes the brush easy to clean as the pins retract back inside the head. The button is large with grooves, ensuring an easy grip.
Pet Craft claims their brush effectively remove loose hair from your cat’s undercoat without damaging the skin. In addition they claim you can safely use this brush on both short and long haired cats.
Average rating 4.4 out of 5
You can buy the Shed Titan Self Cleaning Slicker Brush here
Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush
Hertzko self cleaning slicker brush has a non-slip handle and they claim it can be used on all types of cat hair. In fact, if you’re the owner of a shorthair cat like me, I’m sure you’ve noticed just how much they can shed.
Apart from British Shorthairs most have an undercoat. Fine wisps of hair floating in the air after you’ve petted your cat aren’t uncommon. Slicker brushes are great for removing loose hair from the undercoat as well as dirt and debris.
Hertko designed their brush with a thumb rest as well as non-slip handle. This is is great for comfort and ease of use. In addition, it’s lighter than many other brands, and even has a hook hole for hanging and easy storage.
One tip is to always store a retractable slicker brush with the teeth inside the brush head. This helps prevent damage and keeps it clean. However, always remove hairs and wash the brush first before storing.
Average rating 4.6 out of 5
You can buy Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush here
Tminnov Self Cleaning Slicker Brush, Dog Brush/Cat Brush for Shedding and Grooming, Deshedding Tool
This retractable slicker brush has a non slip handle and is very easy to clean. Tminnov claim this is the best brush for removing mats and tangles as well as dander and dirt.
However, your cat would be the best judge of that!
One of the things I like about the Tminov slicker brush is it has 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. You get a 90 day money back guarantee or replacement.
This gives you plenty of time to try it out on your cat and request a refund if your picky kitty disapproves! We all know how awkward our feline friends can be when it comes to grooming!
Average rating 4.5 out of 5
You can buy Tminnov Self Cleaning Slicker Brush here
In conclusion
So now you know what is a slicker brush for cats do you think you’d get one for your feline friend? Of course, there are other types of brushes, but one of the things I like about the slicker is it’s ease of use and versatility. Most are far easier to keep clean than regular bristle brushes, and make great shedding tools.
All slicker brushes in this post are very similar, but for value I definitely recommend the Shed Titan grooming kit. Hertzko is one of the most well known and trusted brands in the pet market today.
In addition if you’re looking for a lightweight slicker brush that’s easy to clean and store, Hertzko may be right for you.
Lastly, if you want a slicker brush with good customer service and money back guarantee, you may decide Tminnov is the best choice. Whichever brush you decide to get for your cat it’s essential you groom her regularly.
Not all cats like being brushed and it can take a lot of time and patience to gain a cat’s trust. If your kitty runs for cover at the mere sight of a brush you could always try a grooming glove.
If you’ve enjoyed this post please share. I don’t mind if you save this pin to your pets board. Also, if you have any questions or would like to share your experiences, please comment below.
Wishing you a purrfect day:)
Kathy
Anyone who has ever owned a cat knows how valuable this item is. Cats do leave a lot of hair all year long and having a slicker brush is a lifesaver. Thanks for sharing these recommendations. Shed Titan seems like the best choice indeed.
Thanks Ivan, glad you found this post useful:) Yes, cats do tend to shed hair for much of the year, especially with central heating. Slicker brushes are indeed a lifesaver, and can help keep loose hair at a minimum. Glad you like the Shed Titan brush as well:)
Thanks for sharing this review on cat brushes. I keep forgetting where I put my cat brush. I have a short-haired Bombay and the end of summer is approaching soon, and I will need to find that brush. I have avoided long-haired cats because I don’t like all the hair all over everything. (and I like how a short-hair feels when you pet her)
Many blessing… Brian
Hi Brian, glad you enjoyed this post, and hope you find your cat brush! Some short hair cats can moult almost as much as those with long hair. I have a black shorthair and often find wisps of black fur on the floor:)
Hi Kathy,
I lost my grooming brush, so I need to get a new one. I am just not sure what I should get. My cats are short hair cats. One of them has a little longer hair but it is still short enough, and he does not like to be groomed. He loves being cuddled and petted, but as soon as he sees the groom, he gets nervous and he runs off. He does not like the sight of it, I think he sees it as a threat … He used to be feral, but although he is domesticated and he is the sweetest, most loving boy now, there are things that trigger a “run/hide and save your life” behavior from him. A grooming glove might be a solution, or what do you propose?
Hi Christine, yes, a grooming glove is definitely the best option for your nervous cat. Brushing your cat with it is exactly the same as stroking him so he should be fine. I have the same problem with my cat and as soon as he sees a brush he gets scared. Thanks for your input and glad you found this post useful:)
Thanks Kathy for such great information about Slicker Brushes. I definitely like the easy or self-cleaning options. I have 2 cats and a small dog and think this will come in real handy as shedding season starts soon. Love your articles. Keep up the great work.
Thank you Denise:) Yes, slicker brushes will definitely come in handy for you, especially with two cats and a dog! Glad you enjoyed this post and found it useful:)
Thanks for this informational post. I personally don’t have a cat, but my Spanish teacher has 4 or 5 and she always talks about how messy it can get. I believe this brush could be the answer for her.
Thank you Delyana, glad you found this post useful, and I can well understand how your Spanish teacher finds her house messy with 4 or 5 cats lol! Yes, I’m sure she’d find the slicker brush a fantastic grooming tool!:)
I have a very nice self-cleaning slicker brush for my cat, but I noticed one day that its bristles were too pointed and not well rounded at the ends. That would probably cause a cat to get hurt if we did not take care. So I have changed it. I encourage other owners to definitely check out their brushes too.
Regards,
Aparna
Thank you Aparna, that’s a great point to mention. Some brushes have rounded tips which can fall off over time. It’s probably a good idea to check brushes regularly so you don’t end up scratching your cat’s skin. Thanks for stopping by and glad you enjoyed this post:)