how to pick kitten shampoo

Although most cats don’t need regular baths, your kitten may have a skin condition that necessitates bathing. It’s not a bad idea to try bathing your kitten when they’re young to desensitize them to the experience. Along with the difficult task of getting your kitten to tolerate (dare we say, enjoy?) baths, you’re faced with the decision of which shampoo to use.

Your veterinarian will likely recommend a dermatologist-formulated, soap-free shampoo that’s formulated for pets. Soapy shampoos will wash away dirt and debris but may also affect your kitten’s natural skin barrier.

There are four main types of shampoos that your veterinarian may recommend:

  • Moisturizing: These shampoos lubricate the skin and help restore the skin’s protective barrier. Oatmeal shampoos, which are a non-prescription form of moisturizing shampoo, are good over-the-counter options for routine use. These shampoos are meant to soothe and moisturize skin. 
  • Antiseborrheic: These shampoos are meant for oily (wet seborrhea) or flaky (dry seborrhea) skin. They help break down the built-up dead skin cells common with seborrheic skin conditions. 
  • Antimicrobial: Antibacterial and antifungal shampoos aren’t recommended for routine use but may be prescribed by a veterinarian for kittens with active or chronic skin infections. 
  • Antipruritic: These shampoos reduce itchiness and improve skin hydration. It’s common for these types of shampoos to contain steroids and antihistamines. They should not be used without a recommendation from a veterinarian.

You should leave most pet shampoos on for 5 to 10 minutes before washing them off. Speak with your veterinarian for specific instructions if your kitten has unique skincare needs.

You may have heard that you can use baby shampoo for your cat. We advise only using shampoos that are formulated for pet use, as their skin is a different thickness and acidity (pH) than human skin. Using human shampoo on your kitten may set them up for skin issues. 

If you notice changes to your kitten’s skin, such as excessive dandruff, red bumps or hair loss, prior to switching shampoos, we recommend booking an appointment to rule out underlying health conditions.