Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Grooming Tools For Your Cats In 2025
- Nick
- Oct 2
- 11 min read
*This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Read our affiliate disclosure | Read our product review guidelines
If you live with a cat, you already know one truth: no matter how independent they seem, they rely on us to keep them looking and feeling their best. Cats are fastidious groomers by nature, but that doesn’t mean they can handle everything on their own. Even the most self-sufficient kitty sometimes needs a helping hand (or brush). This is where you'll need the right grooming tools.
And here’s the thing: walk into any pet aisle or browse in 2025, and you’ll be overwhelmed with options. Slicker brushes, self-cleaning rakes, grooming gloves, even “smart” tools that promise to do the job for you — it’s hard to know where to start. Do you really need a $60 automatic self-grooming station? Or will a $15 slicker brush do just fine? The answer depends on your cat’s coat, their personality, and how much effort you’re willing to put into grooming sessions.
I think choosing wisely will matter here more than you think. For example, the wrong brush will irritate your cat’s skin, damage their coat, and perhaps end up collecting dust in a drawer. But the right one? It becomes a bonding ritual; you're looking at reducing shedding, preventing painful mats, cutting down hairballs, and giving your cat that silky, healthy shine that makes them strut like royalty.
In this guide, I've prepared everything you need to know before buying grooming tools in 2025. I've done coat types, the latest smart gadgets, and safety features to go for. By the end, you’ll know exactly which tools belong in your grooming kit, and which ones to skip.
Because let’s be honest: a happy, well-groomed cat does not only feel great to cuddle, but also feels good in their own skin. And isn’t that what every cat parent wants?
Now, we lock in.
Understanding your cat’s coat type
Not all cat coats are created equal — and that means not all grooming tools will work for every cat. If you’ve ever tried brushing a sleek short-haired tabby with a heavy-duty undercoat rake, you’ll know what I mean. I reckon that the right tool depends on whether your cat has a fine, single-layer coat, a thick double coat, or that long, luxurious mane that tangles at the drop of a hat. Choosing a tool designed for your cat’s specific coat type is going to make the process faster, safer, and far more enjoyable for both of you.
So here are the tools I deem worthy for the respective coat types.
Short-haired cats
Short-haired breeds like Siamese or Bengals don’t usually mat, but they shed plenty. For these cats, grooming is less about detangling and more about removing loose fur before it spreads to your sofa. You'd want to go for the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush. I found this ideal because the fine wire bristles grab onto loose hair without scratching delicate skin. Another great choice is the Burt’s Bees Double-Sided Brush — the pin side helps lift dead hair, while the bristle side smooths the coat for a glossy finish. Both are lightweight, easy to handle, and gentle enough for daily use.
Long-haired cats
If you have Maine Coons, Persians, and Ragdolls, you'd agree that they may look majestic, but their thick fur can quickly turn into mats if not brushed regularly. These cats need a tool that goes deep without causing pain. The Maxpower Planet Double-Sided Dematting Tool is a lifesaver here: one side with wider teeth breaks up tangles, while the finer side thins out the undercoat. For heavier shedding seasons, the FURminator deShedding Tool for cats is a fan favorite (and my favorite). You get a stainless steel edge which reaches through the topcoat to gently remove loose undercoat fur before it tangles. Both tools save hours of combing and keep coats manageable.
Thick or double-coated cats
Well, breeds like British Shorthairs or Norwegian Forest Cats have dense undercoats that can hide a surprising amount of loose fur. Slicker brushes won’t cut it alone — you’ll need something sturdier. Fix your eyes on PAKEWAY Self-Cleaning Cat Brush, which combines firm bristles with a one-click cleaning button. This is perfect for thick coats, and saves you from manually pulling hair out of the brush. Another option is the SleekEZ Deshedding Tool, designed to remove dirt, dander, and loose fur from thick coats in a single stroke. These tools dig deeper without being overly harsh, which is key for undercoat-heavy breeds. You'd want to try it out.
Sensitive or senior cats
Some cats simply hate grooming, while others (especially older cats) have fragile skin that needs extra care. For them, you want to go for gentler brushes like the Mars Coat King Boar Bristle Brush. Its soft, natural bristles and reported to massage the skin and smooth the coat without pulling. Grooming gloves — like silicone-tipped mitts — can also work wonders for sensitive cats, turning grooming into a petting session. And for ultra-cautious cats, go for stationary tools like the PawSwing Automatic Groomer. This one lets them rub themselves on bristles at their own pace. I liked my time with it.
Winding up this section, fellow cat owners, start with your cat’s coat type and you’ll avoid 90% of the frustration people feel when grooming.
Smart & semi-smart grooming tools in 2025: Are they worth it?
Let’s face it, people; tech has crept into every corner of our lives, and cat grooming is no exception. Scroll through the internet today, and you’ll see grooming gadgets that promise “automatic self-cleaning,” “steam-powered brushing,” and at some point,“360° self-grooming stations.” But are these tools genuinely helpful, or just expensive gimmicks? The truth lies somewhere in between.
Let's find out.
Self-cleaning slicker brushes
If you checked, one of the biggest upgrades in recent years has been the self-cleaning slicker brush. Classic slickers work well, but nobody likes digging clumps of hair out of the bristles. Tools like the itPlus Cat Grooming Brush, PAKEWAY Self-Cleaning Cat Brush or the Swihauk self-Cleaning Slicker Brush solve this with a simple button that retracts the bristles, letting you wipe away fur in seconds. While not “smart” in the app-connected sense, these brushes are game-changers for busy cat parents like myself. I loved Swihauk the most. It didn't matter the length of the hair; it did a fine job on short hair too.
Automatic self-grooming stations
If your cat is the independent type, an automatic grooming station might be the ultimate lazy solution. The PawSwing Automatic Self Groomer is a standout here for me: it’s basically a 360° brush box your cat can walk through. Cats rub against the bristles and get brushed without you lifting a finger. When I used it on my Melly, I came to the realization that these are especially useful for cats who hate being handled but love rubbing against furniture. Just place it near their favorite spot, and let them groom themselves. The only downside is that it won’t replace thorough brushing for long-haired cats. Nevertheless, it’s a great supplemental tool.
Steam & multi-function grooming brushes
As you may already know, a newer trend in 2025 is the steam grooming brush, like the 3-in-1 Steam Pet Comb I used. This one combined brushing with gentle steam to loosen dirt, dander, and stubborn hair. Think of it as a spa day for your cat — the steam not only helped with deep cleaning but can also made coats shinier. Some even come with heat or vibration functions, though those features are hit-or-miss depending on your cat’s tolerance. While promising, these tools are best for patient cats who don’t mind new sensations. Skittish cats may find them overwhelming. But these are worth a try.
Ergonomics & safety
Every cat parent knows the struggle: you sit down with a brush, and your cat either bolts under the couch or tolerates it for two strokes before swatting your hand. The truth is, you want to go for tools your cat can tolerate. That’s where ergonomics and safety come in. A well-designed tool should feel natural in your hand, be gentle on your cat’s skin, and include features that cancel the risk of injury. Otherwise, grooming time will turn into battle time.
Why ergonomics matter
Let’s start with you, the groomer. Brushing a long-haired cat like a Maine Coon can take a good 15–20 minutes, and if your brush has a slippery grip or awkward handle, your wrist will feel it. That’s why tools like the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush get rave reviews for it cushioned, anti-slip handle. I used this one sometime back. The angled bristles reach deep without forcing you to press hard. Ergonomics is about making sure you can groom consistently without dreading the task.
Gentleness for cats
On the cat’s side, safety is everything. Sharp, rigid bristles can scratch sensitive skin, especially on short-haired breeds. For these cats, softer tools like the Burt’s Bees Double-Sided Pin & Bristle Brush or the Mars Coat King Boar Bristle Brush are fantastic choices. They glide over the coat without pulling, turning grooming into something closer to a massage.
Safety features to look for
Indeed, not all brushes are created equal, so it pays to check the details. Look for:
Rounded bristle tips: These prevent scratches on delicate skin.
Breakaway or flexible parts: Some grooming stations, like the PawSwing
Automatic Groomer: Are designed to move if pushed too hard, so cats don’t get stuck.
Self-cleaning buttons: These are not just convenient, but hygienic. They mean business; less hair pulling means fewer chances of accidentally tugging your cat’s fur.
No sharp edges: Be sure to avoid cheaply made rakes or combs with poorly finished teeth.
Safety with effectiveness
Some tools, like the Maxpower Planet Double-Sided Dematting Tool, try to go about safety and effectiveness in a perfect balance. They have sharp enough edges to cut through mats, but are designed with rounded tips to protect skin. Others, like the FURminator deShedding Tool, require a gentler hand; while highly effective. Pressing too hard can irritate your cat. A good rule of thumb: if your cat flinches or tries to bite after just a stroke or two, the tool may be too harsh.
Durability & maintenance
This is where you get the most of your grooming gear. A grooming tool is only as good as its lifespan. Sure, you can grab a $10 brush that works great for a month, but if the bristles bend, the handle cracks, or the self-cleaning button jams, you’ll be back on shopping again. In the long run, friend, durable tools save your money.
With cat grooming, durability is about two things: how well the tool stands up to daily use, and how easy it is to keep clean and functional. Always remember that.
Materials that last
High-quality grooming tools will use stainless steel, flexible yet sturdy plastics, or reinforced rubber grips. For example, the FURminator deShedding Tool is built with a stainless steel edge that doesn’t dull quickly, even with heavy use on thick coats. Similarly, the Maxpower Planet Double-Sided Dematting Tool is known for its rust-resistant blades and solid handle — making it a go-to for owners of long-haired breeds who need regular detangling sessions. You should try them if you're after those that last.
On the flip side, cheaper knockoff rakes and slickers may look similar in photos but might come with poorly finished edges that bend or break after a few uses. Be keen to notice.
The convenience of self-cleaning tools
To me, durability is both surviving rough use and ease of maintenance. Brushes like the PAKEWAY Self-Cleaning Cat Brush or the Swihauk self-Cleaning Slicker Brush are a good start. They come with retractable bristles and one-click cleaning systems. I found them far easier to keep hair-free than traditional slickers, which require you to claw fur out of tiny wire bristles. Over time, self-cleaning brushes hold up better because less force is used to clear them, and you get reducing wear on the bristles.
Waterproof & easy to wash
Another factor is how well the tool stands up to cleaning. You want something easy to clean. Cats produce oils, dander, and saliva that can build up on grooming tools, so washable or waterproof designs are a big plus. The SleekEZ Deshedding Tool is praised for its easy-to-rinse design, which helps prevent bacteria buildup. Likewise, bristle brushes like the Burt’s Bees Brush can be cleaned with mild soap and water without losing shape.
When to replace your grooming tools
Even the best tools don’t last forever. If bristles are bent, edges are dull, or parts are loose, it’s time for a replacement. A worn-out brush won’t just be ineffective; it could actually irritate your cat’s skin. Think of grooming tools like kitchen knives: when sharp and well-maintained, they work beautifully; when dull or damaged, well, they cause more harm than good.
I take it that you're an intentional cat parent. So, invest in grooming tools with strong materials, self-cleaning features, and washable designs. They’ll last longer, work better, and save you money in the long run. While budget brushes can be tempting (they've always been), go for durable picks like the FURminator, Maxpower Planet, or PAKEWAY self-cleaning slickers are worth every penny.
Budget vs. Premium
When shopping for cat grooming tools, you’ll notice the price range is all over the place. Some slicker brushes cost less than a pizza, while premium tools like the FURminator can set you back $30–$40. So the big question is: do you really need the expensive stuff, or will a budget brush do the trick? The answer depends on your cat’s coat type, tolerance level, and how much grooming you’re planning to do.
Here's how you make that decision.
Budget grooming tools
If you're conscius on budget, you're in the right place. Budget tools, like the Burt’s Bees Double-Sided Pin & Bristle Brush, are great for short-haired cats and households on a budget. They’re lightweight, easy to use, and effective for basic coat care. Many self-cleaning slicker brushes on fall into the $10–$15 range, and for casual use, they do a fine job. If your cat is low-maintenance and sheds only moderately, budget-friendly tools will cover all your needs without breaking the bank.
But there's a catch: Cheaper tools may wear out faster, especially with heavy use. Plastic handles can crack, bristles bend, and low-quality blades in de-matting tools can dull quickly. If you only groom once in a while, it might not matter. But for frequent grooming, the costs add up over time.
Premium grooming tools
Premium picks like the FURminator deShedding Tool or Maxpower Planet Double-Sided Dematting Tool are worth considering if you’ve got a long-haired, thick-coated, or heavy-shedding cat. These tools are engineered for durability, efficiency, and comfort. The FURminator, for example, reportedly reduces shedding by up to 90% and lasts for years with proper care. While the upfront price is higher, the performance is leagues ahead of most budget alternatives.
Premium tools also tend to come with thoughtful designs. It is how you'll know. Look for ergonomic grips, rounded tips (for safety), and self-cleaning features. For cat parents who groom weekly or daily, the investment pays for itself in time saved and fur managed.
Budget grooming tools work well for short-haired, low-maintenance cats and occasional grooming sessions. Premium tools, however, are a must for thick-coated or long-haired breeds where mats and shedding are constant battles. Think of it like kitchen knives — if you cook once a week, a budget set works; if you cook every day, a premium chef’s knife is worth every cent.
In 2025, pet parents have more options than ever — from smart self-grooming stations like the PawSwing Automatic Groomer, to premium picks like the FURminator and Maxpower Planet Dematting Tool. The key is to choose based on your cat’s coat type, sensitivity, and grooming needs. Remember: comfort, safety, and durability should always come before price tags. At all times. A tool that works well and lasts long is an investment in your cat’s well-being.
With the right gear, it becomes a bonding ritual — one your cat might even look forward to.
FAQs
1. How often should I groom my cat?
Short-haired cats may only need brushing once or twice a week, while long-haired breeds like Persians or Maine Coons benefit from daily grooming to prevent mats and tangles.
2. Are self-cleaning slicker brushes worth it?
Yes — they save time and frustration. In equal measure. Tools like the PAKEWAY Self-Cleaning Cat Brush let you clear hair with one click, making regular grooming much easier.
3. Do grooming gloves really work for cats?
They’re great for sensitive or grooming-shy cats. Gloves don’t replace heavy-duty tools for mats, but they mimic petting and help reduce shedding on short-haired breeds.
4. Can I use a dog brush on my cat?
Not recommended. Dog brushes are too large or harsh for cats’ delicate skin. Always choose cat-specific tools for safety and comfort. Make sure it is specified for cats.
5. What’s the best grooming tool for long-haired cats?
A combination works best: the Maxpower Planet Double-Sided Dematting Tool for mats, plus the FURminator deShedding Tool to manage undercoat shedding.