Best Brushes for Hairball Control

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Despite their sleek appearance, Maine Coons and Ragdolls are among the breeds most prone to hairballs, with up to 70% of owners reporting regular hairball issues. This is due to their long, double coats, which shed heavily and can lead to swallowed fur accumulating in the stomach. Regular grooming with the right tools can help reduce hairballs and ease their passage. For long-coated breeds, deshedding tools and wide-tooth combs are essential for removing loose hair and preventing matting. Medium-coated breeds, such as British Longhairs, benefit from soft slickers that gently remove loose hair without causing breakage. Short-coated breeds, like the Devon Rex, require gentle grooming gloves to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. By choosing the right brush for their coat type, owners can help reduce hairballs and keep their cat's coat healthy and shiny.

What to look for

Coat Type

The type of coat your cat has is crucial in choosing the right brush. Long-coated breeds require deshedding tools and wide-tooth combs, while medium-coated breeds benefit from soft slickers. Short-coated breeds need gentle grooming gloves. Consider your cat's coat type and choose a brush that is designed to meet their specific needs.

Bristle Material

The material of the bristles is also important. Look for brushes with flexible, gentle bristles that won't scratch or irritate your cat's skin. For long-coated breeds, bristles with a curved or angled shape can help to remove loose hair more effectively.

Ergonomics

The comfort and ergonomics of the brush are crucial for both you and your cat. Look for brushes with comfortable handles and balanced designs that make it easy to groom your cat without straining your hand or wrist.

Deshedding Capability

For breeds prone to hairballs, deshedding capability is critical. Look for brushes with features such as rotating teeth or flexible pins that can help to remove loose hair and reduce shedding.

Gentleness

Finally, consider the gentleness of the brush. For sensitive cats or those with skin allergies, a gentle brush with flexible bristles and a soft touch is essential.

Our top picks

Furminator Long Hair deShedding Tool

Best for Long-coated breeds

The Furminator Long Hair deShedding Tool is a top pick for long-coated breeds such as Maine Coons and Ragdolls. Its curved, rotating teeth are designed to remove loose hair and reduce shedding, making it an effective tool for reducing hairballs. The ergonomic handle and comfortable grip make it easy to use, even for extended grooming sessions.

✓ Effective at removing loose hair
✓ Ergonomic handle for comfortable use
✓ Reduces shedding and hairballs

✕ May be too harsh for short-coated breeds

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Oster Gentle Paws Slicker Brush

Best for Medium-coated breeds

The Oster Gentle Paws Slicker Brush is a great choice for medium-coated breeds such as British Longhairs. Its soft, flexible bristles are gentle on the skin and effective at removing loose hair, making it an excellent tool for reducing shedding and hairballs.

✓ Gentle on skin
✓ Effective at removing loose hair
✓ Easy to use

✕ May not be as effective for long-coated breeds

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Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush

Best for Short-coated breeds

The Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush is a great choice for short-coated breeds such as the Devon Rex. Its flexible, gentle bristles are easy on the skin and effective at removing loose hair, making it an excellent tool for reducing shedding and hairballs.

✓ Gentle on skin
✓ Effective at removing loose hair
✓ Easy to clean

✕ May not be as effective for long-coated breeds

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Andis Pet Deshedding Tool

Best for Long-coated breeds

The Andis Pet Deshedding Tool is a great choice for long-coated breeds such as Maine Coons and Ragdolls. Its stainless steel edge is designed to remove loose hair and reduce shedding, making it an effective tool for reducing hairballs.

✓ Effective at removing loose hair
✓ Durable construction
✓ Easy to use

✕ May be too harsh for short-coated breeds

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Furminator Undercoat Rake

Best for Long-coated breeds

The Furminator Undercoat Rake is a great choice for long-coated breeds such as Maine Coons and Ragdolls. Its rotating teeth are designed to remove loose hair and reduce shedding, making it an effective tool for reducing hairballs.

✓ Effective at removing loose hair
✓ Ergonomic handle for comfortable use
✓ Reduces shedding and hairballs

✕ May be too harsh for short-coated breeds

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best brush for reducing hairballs in long-coated breeds?

The best brush for reducing hairballs in long-coated breeds is one that is designed to remove loose hair and reduce shedding, such as the Furminator Long Hair deShedding Tool or the Andis Pet Deshedding Tool.

How often should I brush my cat to reduce hairballs?

The frequency of brushing depends on your cat's coat type and shedding level. For long-coated breeds, daily brushing is recommended, while medium-coated breeds may require brushing 2-3 times a week.

Can I use a human brush on my cat?

No, human brushes are not designed for cats and can be too harsh on their skin and coat. It's best to use a brush specifically designed for cats, such as those listed above.

Will brushing my cat reduce shedding completely?

While brushing can help reduce shedding, it may not eliminate it completely. Regular grooming and the right brush can help reduce shedding and hairballs, but it's also important to maintain a healthy diet and consult with a veterinarian if you have concerns about your cat's shedding or hairballs.

Can I brush my cat too much?

Yes, over-brushing can be harmful to your cat's skin and coat. Be gentle and avoid brushing too frequently, as this can cause irritation and damage to the skin and coat.

For long-coated breeds prone to hairballs, a deshedding tool or wide-tooth comb is essential for reducing shedding and hairballs. The Furminator Long Hair deShedding Tool and Andis Pet Deshedding Tool are top picks for these breeds. For medium-coated breeds, a soft slicker brush such as the Oster Gentle Paws Slicker Brush is a great choice. Remember to brush your cat regularly and gently to reduce shedding and hairballs, and consult with a veterinarian if you have concerns about your cat's health.

Best Brushes for other breeds

The same category, matched to a different breed.