So, you’re considering getting a new cat? Congratulations! If this is your first cat, you might be wondering what type of supplies your new kitty will need once you bring them home. For example, what do you need to keep your cat clean and well-groomed? While your cat’s needs will vary somewhat based on what type of coat they have, here are 10 essential cat grooming supplies to get you started.

The 10 Essential Cat Grooming Supplies

1. Shampoo

Yes, cats sometimes need baths too. While you probably won’t be bathing your cat as often as you would a dog who goes out and rolls in the mud, you should still be prepared by stocking up on bathing supplies. When bathing a cat, you want a shampoo formulated for pets rather than a human version. Pet shampoos won’t dry out your kitty’s skin and coat like human shampoo.

Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is a pH-balanced option made with natural ingredients. The oatmeal helps keep your cat’s skin and coat moisturized as it cleans. With a pleasant cucumber and aloe scent, this shampoo is soap-free and made in the USA.

2. Brush

A sturdy brush is one of the most important grooming supplies for your cat. If your cat has long hair, you’ll probably use the brush daily to keep their coat tangle-free. Short-haired kitties don’t need to be brushed as frequently, but the activity is an excellent way to bond with your cat while reducing the amount of shedding.

The Frisco Cat and Dog Pin Bristle Brush is a good all-around option because it features brush types that work for long and short coats. This brush is gentle and easy to use, although it doesn’t have a self-cleaning feature.

3. Nail Clippers

If your new cat is a kitten, get started on nail trimming as soon as possible. The younger your cat gets used to having their feet handled and nails cut, the easier your life will be as they grow up. Cats spend a lot of time scratching and sharpening their nails, but you’ll need to keep them trimmed regularly.

Overgrown cat nails can get snagged and torn or grow into the paw pads. Sharp kitty claws can damage your furniture or other pets. The JW Pet Gripsoft Cat Nail Clippers are just the right size for your kitty’s feet. The easy-grip handles are designed for left and right-handed people.

4. Toothbrush & Toothpaste

A cat’s mouth can be dirty, so you’ll want to make dental care a regular part of your cat’s grooming routine. Again, teaching your cat to accept this process when they’re young is your best option. Choose a toothpaste designed for pets rather than a human option.

The CET Dog and Cat Poultry-flavored Toothpaste and Toothbrush kit has everything you need to keep your kitty’s teeth clean. The tasty toothpaste essentially functions as a treat reward for your cat while you brush. This toothbrush head is small and set at an angle, ideal for reaching the corners of a smaller cat mouth.

5. Comb

For long-haired cats, such as Maine Coons or Ragdolls, you’ll want to invest in a comb as well as a brush. This grooming supply is ideal for helping remove dirt and mats from your cat’s coat. It also helps provide that finishing fluff, so your kitty always looks Instagram-ready.

The Andis Steel Pet Comb is lightweight and features coarse and fine teeth, ideal for all parts of the cat’s body. Because it’s made of stainless steel, this comb is more durable than other choices. This comb is well-tolerated by most cats, based on user reviews.

6. Ear Cleaner

Some cats rarely need their ears cleaned, while others need weekly wipe-downs. If your cat suffers from frequent ear infections, your vet may instruct you to clean their ears more often. Be prepared by stocking a pet-formulated ear-cleaning solution with your grooming supplies.

Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner for Dogs and Cats is frequently sold and recommended by veterinarians. The solution is gentle on your cat’s ears and helps decrease odor. Try using a cotton ball or cotton pad to wipe out excess cleaner.

7. Dental Water Additive

If you’re concerned you won’t have the time or the cooperation from your cat to brush their teeth, a dental water additive is an easy way to provide tooth care for your kitty. While it doesn’t offer the same cleaning action as brushing, dental water additives can help fight tartar and keep your kitty’s breath smelling fresh.

OxyFresh Premium Cat and Dog Dental Water Additive is odorless and tasteless, increasing the chances that your cat will actually drink it. It is non-toxic and made in the USA as well. It helps decrease plaque and fight bad breath.

8. Pet Wipes

Pet wipes provide a handy solution when your cat needs a quick clean-up rather than a full bath. You can also use them during bath time to easily clean your cat’s face and paws. Choosing a pet-safe wipe rather than those designed for human babies helps ensure your cat’s skin won’t be irritated.

Hepper wash wipes are hypoallergenic and designed to clean and deodorize your cat. They’re sturdy enough to scrub your cat and feature a refreshing scent.

9. Deshedding Tool

You’ll need something a little tougher than the traditional brush and comb for cats that shed heavily. Deshedding tools are designed specifically to reach down into the cat’s undercoat and remove as much loose hair as possible. This essential grooming tool helps cut down on the amount of hair in your home while keeping your cat free from uncomfortable mats.

The Furminator Long Hair Cat Deshedding Tool is sturdy, comfortable to hold, and won’t harm your cat’s skin when used as directed. It features a handy “Furjector” function for easy cleaning as well. This tool removes excess hair without requiring a lot of pressure and is typically well-tolerated by cats, based on user reviews.

10. Grooming Gloves

For sensitive cats or older adoptees that never learned to tolerate brushing, grooming gloves can be an effective way to ease them into a coat care routine. Your cat will think you’re just petting them, but in reality, you’re removing dead hair and helping their coat stay shiny and clean. The gloves are most effective for short-haired cats and won’t do much to remove tough tangles or mats.

The HandsOn All-In-One Pet Bathing and Grooming Gloves can be used inside the bath or out. They collect loose hair as you “brush” your cat rather than sending it flying off into a cloud. The gloves are fairly easy to clean, too, although some users report very fine hair is tough to remove completely. Give your cat a massage with a purpose while wearing these grooming gloves.

Conclusion

No matter what kind of coat your cat has, it’ll need regular grooming to keep it healthy. Even hairless cats need frequent bathing or wiping to keep their skin moisturized and in good condition. These 10 essential cat grooming supplies should give you everything you need to get started when you bring your new pet home. If you’re uncertain or unsure how to perform specific grooming tasks like nail trims, ask your vet or their staff to teach you all their tips and tricks.

Featured Image Credit: RJ22, Shutterstock