Cats are known for being able to groom and keep themselves clean. Their rough tongues have small hooks that catch dirt and debris from the fur and brush out their fur of knots. Many cats can keep themselves clean without needing human interference, but some cats, especially kittens, may need a bit of help.
Kittens are constantly exploring their surroundings, so it should not be surprising if they get themselves dirty and need to be bathed. The best kitten shampoo is safe to use on kittens without harming their skin, fur, or eyes.
There are a variety of shampoos you can use, like dry shampoo for cats or sprays. If your kitten has never been bathed in water, then it may be difficult at first. But if you have the right kitten shampoo, then the struggle to bathe your kitten will be worth it. Take a look at the shampoos we have suggested to find the right one for your kitten.
Top-Rated Kitten Shampoo
TropiClean Hypo-Allergenic Kitten Shampoo is gentle on the kitten’s skin and fur and provides thorough cleaning.
Key Features
- Natural ingredients
- Ideal for sensitive pets
- Safe for all ages
TropiClean’s Hypo-Allergenic shampoo uses natural and soap-free ingredients to keep kittens clean, and their eyes tear-free. The extra-mild soap is ideal for pets with sensitive skin as it won’t irritate their skin or cause rashes. It can also remove allergy-causing dander before it becomes an issue for your kitten. Coconut is used as a natural cleanser while the aloe replenishes moisture to the skin, so you can be sure your kitten will have the freshest and healthiest skin and fur.
You can use this shampoo on pets young and old as it is gentle and provides thorough cleaning. To use this shampoo effectively, wet your kitten’s coat and massage the soap into their fur for about five minutes and rinse well. You can repeat if necessary or bathe your pet regularly for a long-lasting cleanse.
Pros
- Can be used daily safely
- Minimal ingredients to reduce irritation
Cons
- Has a strong scent some young kittens may be irritated by
It is best to get a kitten used to bathing as soon as you can by using TropiClean Hypo-Allergenic Kitten Shampoo.
2. Frisco
Your kitten will have healthy skin and fur when using Frisco Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo for Puppies and Kittens.
Key Features
- Plant-based cleansers
- Added vitamins
- Uses no harmful ingredients
As the saying goes, less is more, and that even applies to kitten shampoo. This hypo-allergenic shampoo does not use any dyes, parabens, fragrances, or perfumes as they can be harmful to the skin and fur of pets, even if they don’t have skin sensitivities. Instead, this shampoo uses plant-based cleaners to provide a strong cleansing. Lathering coconut removes odors from the fur while certified organic aloe vera juice hydrates the skin and restores volume to the coat.
For a bonus health benefit, Frisco has added pro-vitamins B5 and vitamins A and E to support healthy, non-flaking skin and nourish fur for a long-lasting effect. Your kitten will surely feel comfortable being bathed with this shampoo alongside having healthy skin and fur after each bath.
Pros
- Has no fragrances to avoid irritating sensitive pet noses
Cons
- Can be harmful to pets if accidentally put in the eyes or ingested
You need to be sure that you are bathing your young kitten with a non-harmful shampoo such as Frisco to avoid irritations.
3. Burt’s Bees Waterless
Burt’s Bees Waterless Shampoo for Cats provides a bathing alternative if your kitten is not comfortable being bathed in water.
Key Features
- 99.8% natural
- Contains no sulfates
- pH balanced for cats
Some cats don’t do well in water, but still need to be bathed. So, Burt’s Bees offers this waterless alternative. 99.8% of the ingredients are natural, such as apple and honey being used to support a super soft and shiny coat. No sulfates or colorants are used, and the shampoo is produced cruelty-free.
Cats have a different pH balance than we do and need a shampoo that helps maintain their skin at an ideal pH level. Burt’s Bees has made this shampoo with gentler ingredients, so it produces less acidity that will then, in turn, keep the pH balance of your cat’s skin in healthy ranges. All you need to do is spray your cat and gently rub the shampoo into the fur and towel off any excess shampoo.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Does not use any water
Cons
- Harmful to pets and humans if it gets in the eye or is ingested. Use with precaution around the face
To avoid scaring your kitten away from baths forever, get them used to bathing by using Burt’s Bees Waterless Shampoo for Cats.
4. Advantage Flea & Tick Treatment
Fleas are a burden, so keep them away from your kitten by using Advantage Flea & Tick Treatment for Cats and Kittens.
Key Features
- Scientifically formulated to remove fleas
- Unscented
- Provides immediate protection
Advantage has created this scientifically formulated shampoo that contains a highly effective combination of ingredients that will kill fleas and ticks on contact. Killing the fleas will not only prevent a flea infestation, but will also prevent flea dermatitis, and other diseases fleas carry. It is unscented so that kittens with fragrance sensitivities will have little to no irritations to the shampoo.
When you bathe your kitten with the shampoo it creates an abundant lather so you can cover your kitten from head to toe for immediate protection. You may see fleas rise to the surface of the water as you bathe your kitten, which is gross at first, but proves that you have effectively removed the fleas bothering your little kitten.
Pros
- Can be used as part of a comprehensive flea prevention program
Cons
- Must not be repeated until 7 days have passed
- Cannot be used on kittens under 12 weeks of age
While you treat your home for fleas, treat your beloved kitten by bathing them with Advantage Flea & Tick Treatment for Cats and Kittens.
5. Espree Tear-Free
Bathe your kitten with a gentler shampoo by using Espree Tear-Free Aloe Vera Kitten Shampoo.
Key Features
- Hypo-Allergenic
- Uses organic ingredients
- Uses no harmful ingredients
Espree specifically designed their tear-free kitten shampoo so that it will not harm your kitten’s skin or cause any fur loss. Even the most sensitive of kittens should not feel any irritations to the hypo-allergenic formula. This shampoo is 99% natural and 65.9% organic, which is achieved by using human-grade ingredients and not including and detergents, chemical dyes, or parabens added to the shampoo.
Organically grown aloe vera will cleanse and return moisture to your cat’s skin and fur. Natural jojoba will clean your kitten and leave behind a pleasant scent. Kittens of all ages can be bathed this shampoo, and it should not cause them any issues, even expectant mother cats can be bathed without fear of harming their unborn kittens.
Pros
- Limited ingredient shampoo
- Animal cruelty-free testing
Cons
- Has a strong odor some pets may be irritated by
Espree Tear-Free Aloe Vera Kitten Shampoo has been specially made to cleanse your kitten without harming their skin or fur.
6. Davis Bathless
Avoid bathing your kitten with water by bathing them with Davis Bathless Dog and Cat Spray.
Key Features
- Leaves no residue
- Chemical-free
- Easy to use
Davis Bathless spray gives you the chance to wash your kitten without getting either of you wet. It is easy to use as all you need to do is spray your kitten, rub the spray into your kitten’s fur, and towel off any grime or extra spray. You can cover large areas of your kitten’s fur or spot clean due to the spray being able to be sprayed from all angles, even upside down. No residue will be left behind when this spray is used thanks to the soothing and cleansing power offered by chamomile and sunflower oil.
No chemicals like sulfates or dyes have been used so that the spray can be used on pets of all ages safely. The spray will leave a pleasant fragrance behind that should not irritate your kitten’s skin or bother their highly sensitive noses.
Pros
- Can be sprayed at all angles
- Mimics a traditional bath
Cons
- Can be harmful if sprayed in the eyes
Bathing your kitten with water can be a pain for some owners, so avoid the toil and struggle by bathing them with Davis Bathless Dog and Cat Spray.
7. Earthbath
If your kitten suffers from dry skin, then they will benefit from being bathed with Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog and Cat Shampoo.
Key Features
- Contains no harmful ingredients
- Restores health to the skin and fur
- Ideal for pets with dry skin
To combat against your kitten’s dry and itchy skin, Earthbath has made this soap-free shampoo. Oatmeal and aloe work together to restore moisture to dry skin and fur. The shampoo will heal scratched skin, soothe any irritated patches on the skin, and reduce the amount of time your kitten will spend scratching themselves.
The vanilla and almond scent will neutralize stinky pet odors without irritating your pet’s nose or skin. Earthbath also made sure that their soap would not interfere with any current topical flea treatments. When you apply the soap onto your kitten, rub it into your kitten’s fur into a generous lather and leave it on your kitten’s fur for at least 90 seconds to allow the shampoo to work properly.
Pros
- 100% biodegradable
- Can be used on pets six weeks and older
Cons
- Is harmful to both humans and pets if it gets in the eye or is ingested
Your kitten’s fur and skin will be rejuvenated if they are regularly bathed with Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog and Cat Shampoo.
8. Paws & Pals
Paws & Pals Oatmeal Shampoo will ease any skin irritation your kitten may be suffering from.
Key Features
- Made of all-natural and organic ingredients
- Restores health to skin and fur
Paws & Pals uses all-natural and vegan ingredients to make their shampoo safe for pets of all ages to use. To relieve painful and itchy skin, Paws & Pals uses an organic mix of aloe, jojoba oil, and coconut oil. Oatmeal, shea butter, and natural rosemary extract work together to soothe fur and moisturize even the most brittle coats.
A delicate balance of vet recommended essential oils will provide deep coat care from the roots and up. This shampoo is non-toxic and can be used regularly without drying out their fur and skin more than they are.
Pros
- Uses irritant-free ingredients
- Tear-free formula
Cons
- Some pet owners have stated the after smell is not pleasant
You will see a major improvement in the health of your kitten’s skin and fur when bathing them regularly with Paws & Pals Oatmeal Shampoo.
9. Vet’s Best Waterless
Vet’s Best Waterless Cat Bath has been veterinarian approved for a deep and soothing cleansing experience.
Key Features
- Leave-in formula
- Veterinarian formulated
- Cleans and soothes skin
Vet’s Best obtained the opinions from vets to create their no-rinse shampoo. The leave-in foam just needs to be worked into your kitten’s fur, and you are done, no need to use water or wipe anything off. By using aloe vera, neem oil, vitamin E, and oatmeal, your kitten’s skin should be soothed if it is dry, and their fur should be soft to the touch.
The calming fragrance will help your kitten feel relaxed after their bath, not irritated, or having their nose bothered by the scent. If you have started to use flea treatments on your kitten, do not worry, this shampoo has been specially made not to affect any current topical flea treatment. You can use this foam bath regularly or as needed with no stress or strain on your kitten’s sensitive bodies.
Pros
- Ideal for cats 12 weeks and older
- Irritant-free fragrance
Cons
- Will cause pain and irritation if it gets in the eyes
Vet’s Best Waterless Cat Bath gets deep into your cat’s coat to leave them feeling fresh and clean without needing to use water.
10. TropiClean Waterless
TropiClean Waterless Hypo-Allergenic Cat Shampoo will get rid of the stink on your kitten without irritating them.
Key Features
- No-rinse formula
- Uses 70% organic materials
- Deep cleansing and deodorizing
This shampoo is made up of 70% organic materials making it a hypoallergenic shampoo ideal for pets with sensitive skin. The all-natural formula can be used on pets of all ages without harming them. You will not need to use any water with this shampoo as it forms an easy to apply foam that you need only to rub into your kitten’s fur.
Coconut and aloe come together to cleanse and deodorize and even restore the health of your kitten’s fur and skin. Your kitten will be smelling fresh longer thanks to this pet shampoo.
Pros
- Made in the USA
Cons
- May leave a bit of residue on the fur
You will have an easier time keeping your kitten clean by bathing them with TropiClean Waterless Hypo-Allergenic Cat Shampoo.
11. Davis Dry
Davis Dry Dog & Cat Shampoo helps remove dirt and oils from your kitten’s fur to keep them fresh between baths.
Key Features
- Dismisses excess oil and debris
- Contains no harmful ingredients
- Safe for all ages
You can keep your kitten’s fur feeling fresh by bathing them with this dry shampoo. This dry shampoo soaks up excess oils and filth and restores volume and texture to the fur. Since kittens are sensitive, you want to be sure that the shampoo has no harmful ingredients. Davis doesn’t use any sulfates or parabens for a safer, more natural cleansing experience.
Pets of all ages can use this shampoo without worries. It is also easy to use this shampoo as you need only spray your pet, massage it into their fur, and remove any extra shampoo with a towel.
Pros
- Can be used on all fur types
Cons
- Regular baths are still recommended between using this dry shampoo
You can remove oils or add volume back to your kitten’s fur whenever you bathe them with Davis Dry Dog & Cat Shampoo.
12. Nootie
Do you have a white kitten and want to keep their fur bright white? Then you need to use Nootie Sweet Pea & Vanilla Shampoo.
Key Features
- Natural brightening ingredients
- No harmful ingredients
- Won’t disturb topical flea treatments
Nootie offers this bleach-free shampoo to brighten white fur and remove any stains from it naturally, so you see a bright shine year-round. There are no sulfates, soaps, or parabens used for the strong brightening power, only natural and safe ingredients that won’t harm your fluffy kitten.
Jojoba oil has been added to clean your kitten without drying out their beautiful fur. Instead, it will cleanse and restore moisture into dry fur. It will also not cause any skin irritations and reduce the amount of dry and flaky skin.
Pros
- Can be used on pets of all ages
- Has a fresh, non-irritating scent
Cons
- Some customers have claimed that the scent does not last very long
You will see how bright your white kitten will look after each bath you give your kitten with Nootie Sweet Pea & Vanilla Shampoo.
13. Adams Plus
When looking for a waterless flea shampoo, one of the better options you can choose is Adams Plus Plea & Tick Foaming Shampoo.
Key Features
- Sensitive formula
- Kills all flea life stages
- Deep conditioning
Fleas are irritating bugs that can cause several health issues for young kittens. This foaming shampoo contains active ingredients that kill fleas, ticks, flea eggs, flea larvae, and lice. Other ingredients prevent a re-infestation of fleas for up to 28 days.
It is sensitive skin-friendly as it contains aloe, lanolin, coconut extract, and oatmeal, all ingredients that moisturize and aid in dry skin issues. Your kitten will also get a deep conditioning bath as it removes dandruff, dirt, and scales from your kitten.
Pros
- Safe to use on kittens 12 weeks and older
- Leaves a pleasant and non-irritating scent
Cons
- May need multiple uses to remove all fleas completely
Stop fleas from becoming an issue for your young kitten by regularly bathing them with Adams Plus Flea & Tick Foaming Shampoo.
14. Ark Naturals Waterless
Ark Naturals Waterless Cat & Dog Shampoo makes it easier for you to keep your cat clean between their regular baths.
Key Features
- Uses natural ingredients
- Needs no water
- Cleans and moisturizes
Ark Naturals is a rinseless, waterless, and foaming shampoo ideal for spot cleaning between baths. You can pump the shampoo into your hands or directly onto your kitten’s coat and gently massage in the shampoo, no need to use a towel or comb unless your kitten has long fur.
This shampoo cleans and moisturizes your kitten’s fur using a combination of natural ingredients. A natural botanical formula containing balsam, cedarwood, rosemary, and orange oil will get rid of any stinky pet odors and leave your kitten smelling fresh and appealing.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Ideal for pets of all ages and lifestyles
Cons
- Dangerous to pets and humans if ingested or it gets in the eyes
Struggle less to keep your kitten feeling fresh and smelling clean with the easy to pump foaming Ark Naturals Waterless Cat & Dog Shampoo.
15. Four Paws Magic Coat
You wouldn’t want stinging soap in your eyes, and your kitten wouldn’t either. Bathe them with Four Paws Magic Coat Cat and Kitten Shampoo to avoid teary eyes.
Key Features
- Contains helpful ingredients
- Will not irritate eyes
- Safe for cats of all ages
Along with their sensitive skin, kittens have sensitive eyes that can quickly get irritated. Four Paws Magic Coat created this tearless shampoo so that you can safely clean your kitten’s face knowing that the shampoo will not irritate their eyes if it were to get in their eyes accidentally.
A combination of proteins and lanolin has been added to the shampoo for a moisturizing effect and to add extra shine to furry coats. The shampoo will also remove knots, mats, and tangles from the fur, so brushing will be a breeze during and after their baths. You will have a happy and clean kitten thanks to this kitten friendly shampoo.
Pros
- Can be used on cats of all ages and fur types
Cons
- Harmful to humans if accidentally swallowed
Your kitten will not cry when they are bathed with the tearless shampoo Four Paws Magic Coat.
Bottom Line
Bathing your kitten can be an enjoyable bonding experience for both of you. Before bathing your kitten, you will want to slowly introduce them to the water and having it poured on their body. It may take a few attempts to get your kitten comfortable with being bathed.
Depending on if your cat enjoys the bath or not, you need to be sure that you are praising them for allowing you to wash them. Give them their favorite treat, play with them, or give them all the pets and cuddles that they could want.
While they are kittens, your cat may need more frequent baths, but once your cat is older, they may not get into as many messy situations. But while they need your help, your kitten will need you to bathe them and keep them and their fur clean.
Head over to the PetStruggles homepage for all your cat needs!
The Review
Kitten Shampoo
Finding the perfect shampoo for your kitten is easy with our detailed reviews & ratings.
Review Breakdown
- Frisco
- Tropi Clean
- Burts Bees
- Advantage
- Espree
- Bathless
- Earthbath
- Paws & Pals
- Vets Best
- Tropiclean waterless
- Davis
- Nootie
- Adams Plus
- Ark Naturals
- Four Paws
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