Most healthy cats don’t need to bathe as they can keep themselves clean. thank you. However, in some circumstances, bathing may be necessary. For example, a hairless cat may need to take a regular bath, while a cat with skin condition or medical problems may need to take a bath according to what the vet is saying.
Unfortunately, some ingredients are toxic to cats, so it is essential to rule out the inclusion of these ingredients in the products you choose to bathe in cats. Read on to find out what to avoid.
Which ingredients are bad for cats?
There are a lot of ingredients to avoid when buying cat shampoo. Using products containing these ingredients can cause a variety of issues, including irritation, allergic reactions, dryness, flakeness, and skin pain. When they get into their eyes, this causes pain and irritation.
Some ingredients, such as phenols, are toxic to cats and can cause some serious consequences, including liver and kidney damage and neurological problems. Unfortunately, like other toxic ingredients, phenols can be fatal for cats as well.1 This is why it is so essential to check the label before using new products on your cat.
Other ingredients to avoid:
- Paraben
- Pyrethroid
- Phenol
- Pyrethrin
- Permethrin
- Artificial fragrance
- Artificial colour
- dye
- Sulfate
- Formaldehyde
- alcohol
- Mineral oil
- Phthalates
- Sodium Lauryl
- camphor
- Glycol
- D-Limonene and Linaloll
- Polysorbate
- Methylchloroisothiazolinones and other isothiazolinones
- Ethyl acetate
- Steerate
- Benzaldehyde
- Sodium benzoate
What about essential oils?
Cat-toxic essential oils, like tea tree oil, are commonly used in cat shampoos, but are highly diluted. As long as it is a product specifically formulated for use in cats, the concentrations are very low and should not be considered toxic, but it is highly recommended to check with your veterinarian first. This applies to new shampoos used on cats.
If you need to talk to your veterinarian, but you can’t reach one, Pangovet. Online service possible Talk to your vet online And you’ll receive the personalized advice you need for your pet – all at a reasonable price!
Never apply essential oils to cat skin except for veterinary approved products specifically formulated for cats with diluted concentrations. Topical application or oral ingestion is fatal.
Can I use human shampoo?
No, human shampoos are not safe for cats and should not be used for bathing. For one thing, human pH balance is different from cat pH balance, and human shampoos are formulated to be more acidic than pet shampoos. Cats are more sensitive because they have less skin layers than us. Using human shampoos will interfere with the pH balance of your cat and cause dry skin.
Furthermore, many of the ingredients found in human shampoos (including the list above) are not safe for cats. Sodium sulfate salts, parabens, artificial fragrances and colours are some of the ingredients commonly found in human shampoos, all of which can irritate cat skin.
Can I use dog shampoo?
no. Some ingredients used in dog shampoos are safe for dogs, but not for cats. For example, permethrin, an ingredient used in flea control products for dogs, is toxic to cats, like some essential oils. Therefore, do not use human or dog shampoos on cats. The only exception is shampoos formulated with both cats and With the dog it is clearly marked that way.
How to Choose a Safe Shampoo for Your Cat
There are several factors to consider when hunting the right shampoo for moggies.
- Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.
- Keep your list of harmful ingredients convenient to check labels.
- Make sure the product is formulated specifically for cats.
- Find something gentle that doesn’t remove natural oils.
- Look for a simple shampoo that doesn’t have sulfate.
- Even products labeled “natural” or “organic” can contain ingredients that are harmful to cats.
- Avoid brands that do not list ingredients.
There are plenty of pet shampoos to choose from, but some are far better than others. I love these two options created by Hepper, each offering something uniquely different. Colloid Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Occasionally with a full bus Waterless Snow Rinse Dry Shampoo Perfect for cats who prefer to leave them dry! Both are made with all-natural ingredients and a pH-balanced formula designed to gently lift dirt and debris, softly hydrate your cat’s coat and skin. Find out the table below to see what’s right for you.
| image | product | detail | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hepper Colloid Oatmeal Pet Shampoo |
Effective cleaning formula The kitten’s skin is well balanced Cleaning will make you moisturize |
Check the price |
|
Hepper Waterless No Linse Pet Shampoo |
Purify without water and deodorize thoroughly Natural ingredients and pH balance Fresh scent |
Check the price |
At Catstar, we have long admired Hepper and decided to take control of ownership so that we can benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!
Final Thoughts
Again, most cats don’t need to bathe, but if yours is, it’s essential to do your research and carefully check what’s in the shampoo you use in them.
Not all brands list their ingredients. According to the American Pet Products Association, pet shampoos are not “generally” necessary. It is highly recommended to avoid such products and stick to a reputable and trustworthy brand that your vet lists the ingredients.
Featured Image Credits: reshetnikov_art, shutterstock
