What Shampoo is Good for Cats With Dandruff?

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Our Top Pick
Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo

Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo

With a broad range of uses and a fair price point, this is our top pick for the best overall cat dandruff shampoo.

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Best Medicated
Pet MD Benzoyl Peroxide Medicated Shampoo

Pet MD Benzoyl Peroxide Medicated Shampoo

Pet MD's formula is able to treat dermatitis, dandruff, folliculitis, and several other skin issues.

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Best Rejuvenating
Breezytail PetO’Cera Cat Shampoo

Breezytail PetO’Cera Cat Shampoo

This shampoo features a moisturizing formula that soothes and nourishes the skin using allantoin and ceramide.

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Best Eco-Friendly
VetWELL Micoseb Medicated Shampoo for Cats

VetWELL Micoseb Medicated Shampoo for Cats

VetWELL’s shampoo uses sustainable ingredients and production practices.

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Best Cruelty-Free
John Paul Oatmeal Shampoo for Cats

John Paul Oatmeal Shampoo for Cats

An eco-conscious product that soothes the cat’s skin and hydrates, thus helping manage dandruff issues.

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Best Waterless
TropiClean Dander Reducing Shampoo

TropiClean Dander Reducing Shampoo

A waterless cat shampoo formula that is effective on dandruff symptoms and can be used on the go.

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Does Cat Dandruff Shampoo Work?

Yes, cat dandruff shampoo works. It moisturizes dry skin and helps condition a cat’s coat to keep the hair healthy down to the follicle and prevent flaky, itchy skin prone to dandruff. High-quality dandruff shampoo is an essential part of the cat grooming kit.

The Best Cat Dandruff Shampoos Reviewed

Finding the best cat shampoos for dandruff management can be tricky. To help cat owners make the right choice, we have reviewed some of the trending best-sellers on Amazon and Chewy.

Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoos

Summary: Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Pet Shampoo is formulated with hydrating ingredients to replenish your cat’s skin without the use of soaps, parabens, or synthetic dyes. The shampoo gives complete pet care.

Shampoo Scent: Unscented

Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, vitamin E, and colloidal oatmeal

Pros
  • Anti-dandruff cat and dog shampoo
  • Soap-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free formula
  • Made in the USA with a 100% money-back guarantee
Cons
  • The bottle has been known to leak during shipping

Review: Over 80% of Amazon reviews rate this product 5 stars. Consumers were happy with the improvements they saw in their pet’s dandruff, although some were disappointed to find the bottle had broken open during transit.

Pet MD Benzoyl Peroxide Medicated Shampoo for Dogs

Summary: Formulated for dry skin, itch relief, and acne, Pet MD is a trusted source for medicated shampoos made without the use of harsh chemicals. The shampoo is safe for pets with sensitive skin and irritations.

Shampoo Scent: Citrus

Key Ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, and salicylic acid

Pros
  • Moisturizes, deodorizes, and provides overall relief
  • Formulated for a variety of skin conditions
  • Made in the USA without harsh chemicals and additives
Cons
  • May cause an allergic reaction in some pets

Review: Thousands of people have reviewed this product and rated it highly. They have noted how well it handled their pet’s symptoms and skin conditions. However, some customers mentioned it gave their pet an allergic reaction.

Breezytail PetO’Cera Cat Shampoo

Summary: BreezyTail PetO’Cera Cat Shampoo is made with allantoin and ceramide and formulated to provide itch relief and rejuvenate your cat’s coat. The brand is fully transparent when it comes to its ingredient list and is proud of its cat-safe, natural ingredients.

Shampoo Scent: Unscented

Key Ingredients: Sodium cocoyl glutamate, lauryl betaine, sodium cocoyl isethionate

Pros
  • Gentle, tearless formula that can be used as a kitten shampoo
  • Enhanced with allantoin and botanicals for healthy skin
  • Made in the USA with a transparent manufacturing process
Cons
  • Not as cost-friendly as some of its competitors

Review: Most consumers expressed satisfaction with the results this product offered. Some went as far as to say it was one of the “best shampoos I’ve ever used.” Negative reviews often revolve around an allergic reaction to the use of shampoo.

VetWELL Micoseb Medicated Shampoo for Cats

Summary: VetWELL uses a powerful formula of 2% miconazole nitrate and 2% chlorhexidine to tackle tough symptoms of skin infections and discomfort in both cats and dogs. The potent cat shampoo formula work for several skin conditions.

Shampoo Scent: Unscented

Key Ingredients: Miconazole, chlorohexidine, and aloe

Pros
  • Treats a wide variety of skin conditions, including dandruff
  • Eco-friendly ingredient sourcing and manufacturing
  • Made in the USA with carefully selected ingredients
Cons
  • Since it is sulfate-free, it does not lather easily

Review: Consumers on Amazon touted this cat dandruff shampoo for its ability to resolve skin infections and even allergies, with some stating this is a “must-have” for cat owners. The most common complaint was the lack of lather.

John Paul Oatmeal Shampoo for Cats

Summary: Made with animal support in mind, John Paul Oatmeal Shampoo for Cats is formulated with botanical extracts, oat protein, and aloe to gently cleanse and moisturize your pet’s fur. It is a highly-moisturizing formula that also helps deodorize smelly cats.

Shampoo Scent: Vanilla almond

Key Ingredients: Oatmeal, aloe vera, and almond oil

Pros
  • Formulated with premium quality ingredients
  • Soothes and moisturizes the skin and deodorizes the coat
  • Made in the USA with cruelty-free manufacturing
Cons
  • Contains methylchloroisothiazolinone

Review: The majority of reviews are positive. They state the shampoo not only did a good job but left their cat smelling great as well. Critical reviews seemed to express concern over the inclusion of methylchloroisothiazolinone as an ingredient.

TropiClean Dander Reducing Waterless Shampoo for Cats

Summary: TropiClean uses a natural formula of mild cleansers to create a foaming, no-rinse dry shampoo that is both easy to use and effective in treating cats with dander issues.

Shampoo Scent: Agua de Coco

Key Ingredients: Purified water, mild cleansers, odor neutralizer

Pros
  • Safe and quick-acting dander-reducing dry shampoo
  • Paraben, sulfate, paraben, and soap-free formula
  • Does not wash off topical flea and tick treatments
Cons
  • Ingredients are not well listed

Review: Over 5,000 people have reviewed this product, with the majority of them rating it 5 stars. While the positive reviews noted satisfaction with the results this product had to offer, others were put off by the lack of transparency in ingredients and the thickness of the shampoo.

What Should I Look for in Cat Dandruff Shampoo?

Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Cat Shampoo is the best cat dandruff shampoo. Made with natural and soothing ingredients, the formula is gentle enough to be used in cats with sensitive skin. Plus, the shampoo comes at an affordable price. The pet shampoo is safe for adult cats and kittens over the age of 12 weeks.

Here are some things to consider when buying a cat dandruff shampoo:

  • Natural Ingredients. Dandruff can be caused by dry skin and allergies. Natural shampoos are typically made with soothing and moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, oatmeal, and honey.
  • No Harsh Chemicals. A high-quality cat dandruff shampoo must be free from harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients (more details below).     
  • Ease of Use. The shampoo should be of the right consistency and lather easily. It should also come in an easy-to-use and practical bottle (like a pump bottle).
  • Brand. Finally, check the brand – a reliable one will be transparent about its ingredients and manufacturing practices. Always read reviews from other pet owners before purchasing.
Best Seller
Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo
9.4/10Our Score
  • Colloidal Oatmeal and Organic Aloe Vera are recommended by veterinarians to combat skin irritations, promote healing, and re-moisturize sensitive, dry skin.
  • Will not wash off topical flea applications. Safe for all animals over 6 weeks old.
  • Soap free and pH-balanced to clean and deodorize safely and thoroughly.

What Ingredients Should Not be in a Cat Shampoo for Dandruff?

Harsh and artificial ingredients should not be found in a cat dandruff shampoo. Here are some of the ingredients to avoid:

  • Sulfates. Sulfates work as cleaning agents and help create lather. However, they are harsh and associated with exacerbated skin symptoms, skin irritation, and dermatitis.
  • Parabens. Parabens are chemical preservatives used to extend the shampoo’s shelf life. They get absorbed through the skin and accumulate in the body, causing hormonal disorders.
  • Lanolin. Lanolin is a controversial ingredient that can cause organ toxicity. Also, lanolin is very often contaminated with dioxane and ethylene oxide.
  • Phthalates. Phthalates usually hide under the label fragrances. They are added to improve the scent of the shampoo but may cause hormonal disorders.
  • Artificial Fragrances. Artificial fragrances are derived from various ingredients and may cause reproductive issues, developmental toxicity, and some types of cancer.
  • Artificial Colors. Synthesized from petroleum, dyes are associated with different health issues such as allergic reactions, organ failure, birth defects, and cancer.

Can I use Human Dandruff Shampoo on My Cat?

No, you should not use a human dandruff shampoo on your cat.

Human dandruff shampoos will cause skin dryness. Human shampoos are made for different skin pH levels. If used regularly, they strip the natural oils in the cat’s skin and lead to dry skin.

Plus, human shampoos may contain ingredients that are harmful or even toxic to cats.

How Often Should You Bathe a Cat With Dandruff?

When treating a cat for dandruff, you may need to bathe them up to twice per week. Bathing cat helps decrease dry, flaky skin and keeps a healthy pH balance. However, bathing too often may increase the severity of the skin symptoms and make the dandruff issue even worse.

How Fast does Dandruff Shampoo for Cats Work?

Generally speaking, it takes up to five minutes for the dandruff shampoo for cats to start working.

Always read the manufacturer’s label and consult with your veterinarian for more specific guidance as the time frame may change depending on the brand and ingredients.

Although the shampoo starts working from the first use, it may take up to several bath times for the improvement to become visible.

How Long does Dandruff Shampoo for Cats Last?

How long the cat dandruff shampoo will last depends on how often it is used. The frequency of use depends on the underlying cause of the dandruff issue.

Consult with your trusted vet to determine the cause of dandruff. The vet will also help choose the right shampoo and time frame to expect the issue to be resolved.