Best Brushes for American Bobtails

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

We independently research and pick every product. When you buy through our links we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. How this works.

🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool for Cats — best for Reducing shedding and preventing hairballs. Why it wins: Reduces shedding by up to 90%.

American Bobtails have a distinctive medium shaggy double coat that sheds moderately, making regular brushing essential to prevent matting and hairballs. Their coat's texture and length require a brush that can gently detangle and remove loose hair without causing breakage or irritation. With their moderate shedding, American Bobtails benefit from brushes that reduce shedding and prevent hairballs, which can be a significant health concern for this breed. The breed's coat type and shedding level also mean that they require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, which can be painful and uncomfortable for the cat. A good brush should be able to navigate the coat's layers, removing loose hair and preventing matting, while also being gentle on the cat's skin. For American Bobtails, the right brush can make all the difference in maintaining their coat's health and reducing the risk of hairballs and matting. With the right tool, owners can keep their cat's coat looking its best and prevent potential health issues.

What to look for

Coat Type and Length

American Bobtails have a medium shaggy double coat that requires a brush that can navigate its layers and remove loose hair. A brush with flexible pins or teeth is ideal for this coat type, as it can gently detangle and prevent matting. The brush should also be able to reach the undercoat, where loose hair tends to accumulate, and remove it without causing breakage or irritation.

Shedding and Hairballs

American Bobtails shed moderately, which means they require regular brushing to prevent hairballs and reduce shedding. A brush that reduces shedding by up to 90% can be a game-changer for this breed, as it can significantly reduce the amount of loose hair and prevent hairballs from forming.

Matting and Tangling

American Bobtails' coats are prone to matting and tangling, which can be painful and uncomfortable for the cat. A brush that can gently detangle and prevent matting is essential for this breed, as it can help reduce the risk of skin irritation and discomfort.

Gentle on Skin

American Bobtails have sensitive skin, which means they require a brush that is gentle and won't cause irritation. A brush with soft pins or flexible teeth is ideal for this breed, as it can navigate the coat without causing discomfort or skin irritation.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool for Cats	Reducing shedding and preventing hairballs
2	Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush	Detangling and smoothing the coat
3	Safari Cat Shedding Comb	Lifting loose undercoat and detangling
4	KONG ZoomGroom Cat Grooming Brush	Massaging and removing loose hair
5	Hartz Groomer's Best Combo Brush for Cats	Detangling and smoothing the coat

FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool for Cats

Best for Reducing shedding and preventing hairballs

The FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool is specifically designed for cats with medium to long coats, making it an ideal choice for American Bobtails. Its stainless steel edge reaches the undercoat, reducing shedding by up to 90%, and its FURejector hair release button makes it easy to clean. This brush is perfect for American Bobtails, as it can help reduce shedding and prevent hairballs, while also being gentle on their skin.

✓ Reduces shedding by up to 90%
✓ Gentle on skin
✓ Easy to clean

✕ May not be suitable for cats with very sensitive skin

Check price →

Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

Best for Detangling and smoothing the coat

The Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is a great choice for American Bobtails, as it features fine bent wires that detangle gently and a self-cleaning retractable bristle design. This brush is perfect for navigating the breed's medium shaggy double coat and preventing matting and tangling.

✓ Detangles gently
✓ Self-cleaning design
✓ Ergonomic handle

✕ May not be as effective at reducing shedding

Check price →

Safari Cat Shedding Comb

Best for Lifting loose undercoat and detangling

The Safari Cat Shedding Comb is a great tool for American Bobtails, as it features alternating long and short stainless teeth that lift loose undercoat and detangle the coat. This comb is perfect for navigating the breed's coat layers and preventing matting and tangling.

✓ Lifts loose undercoat
✓ Detangles gently
✓ Rounded teeth protect skin

✕ May not be as effective at reducing shedding

Check price →

KONG ZoomGroom Cat Grooming Brush

Best for Massaging and removing loose hair

The KONG ZoomGroom Cat Grooming Brush is a great choice for American Bobtails, as it features soft rubber fingers that massage the skin and remove loose hair. This brush is perfect for American Bobtails, as it can help reduce shedding and prevent hairballs, while also being gentle on their skin.

✓ Massages skin
✓ Removes loose hair
✓ Gentle on skin

✕ May not be as effective at detangling

Check price →

Hartz Groomer's Best Combo Brush for Cats

Best for Detangling and smoothing the coat

The Hartz Groomer's Best Combo Brush is a great choice for American Bobtails, as it features a pin side that detangles and a bristle side that smooths the coat. This brush is perfect for navigating the breed's medium shaggy double coat and preventing matting and tangling.

✓ Detangles and smooths the coat
✓ Soft-grip handle
✓ Two tools in one

✕ May not be as effective at reducing shedding

Check price →

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my American Bobtail?

American Bobtails require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling, as well as to reduce shedding. It's recommended to brush your American Bobtail at least 2-3 times a week, depending on their individual shedding and matting needs.

What type of brush is best for American Bobtails?

Can I use a human brush on my American Bobtail?

No, it's not recommended to use a human brush on your American Bobtail. Human brushes are designed for human hair and can be too harsh for a cat's sensitive skin and coat. Instead, use a brush specifically designed for cats, such as a slicker brush or a pin brush.

How can I prevent hairballs in my American Bobtail?

To prevent hairballs in your American Bobtail, brush them regularly to reduce shedding and remove loose hair. You can also try feeding a hairball-reducing food or adding a small amount of oil to their food to help lubricate their digestive system.

Can I brush my American Bobtail too much?

Yes, it's possible to brush your American Bobtail too much. Over-brushing can cause skin irritation, matting, and tangling, as well as lead to anxiety and stress in your cat. Brush your American Bobtail gently and regularly, but avoid over-brushing or brushing too frequently.

For American Bobtails, the right brush can make all the difference in maintaining their coat's health and reducing the risk of hairballs and matting. By choosing a brush that navigates their medium shaggy double coat and removes loose hair, owners can help keep their cat's coat looking its best and prevent potential health issues. The FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool is a top pick for American Bobtails, as it reduces shedding by up to 90% and is gentle on their skin.

More for your American Bobtail

Other breed-matched picks worth a look.

Best Brushes for other breeds

The same category, matched to a different breed.