Brushing a longhaired cat is a whole different story compared to grooming shorthair kitties. Those glorious manes look amazing, but they’re also pretty quick to knot and shed if you’re not on top of regular grooming. Picking the right brush and having a daily brushing routine can save you a lot of hassle and keep your cat comfortable, fluffy, and tangle free.
If you’re searching for the best way to manage mats, shedding, or just want to step up your cat’s shine, the right tool can make all the difference. Let’s check out what works best for keeping longhaired cats looking (and feeling) great into 2026.
1. Slicker Brushes: Tackling Tangles and Shedding
Slicker brushes are a go to for longhaired cats because they’re awesome for untangling fur and managing everyday shedding. They use fine, closely packed wire bristles to glide through topcoats and loosen up knots before mats get out of control.
Popular picks this year are the ConairPRO Cat Slicker Brush and the Safari Self Cleaning Slicker. Both offer soft, flexible bristles that get deep enough to pick up dead hair, but are gentle on sensitive skin. If you’re dealing with daily tangles, using a slicker can be a real time saver, and it feels pretty good for most cats.
Using Slicker Brushes
- Start with short, gentle strokes along the direction of fur growth.
- Check for any mats and work them out slowly, without pulling.
- Clean the brush frequently during each session for best results.
Regular brushing with a slicker cuts down on hairballs and keeps both you and your cat happier. You won’t have to chase runaway fur all over your house quite as much!
2. DualSided & Versatile Brushes: All-in-One Grooming
If you want something a bit more versatile, a dualsided brush is pretty handy for a lot of longhaired breeds. My favorite is the JW Gripsoft DoubleSided Brush. One side works through loose hair and small tangles, while the other has wire bristles for deeper brushing.
A 3-in-1 option, like IWUWI’s combo brush (brush, comb, and lint remover), is also worth checking out if you’re after convenience. You’ll be ready for everything from touchups to major grooming sessions, and it cuts down on the number of tools you need to store.
- Brush side handles light knots and adds shine.
- Pin side goes deeper for the thick undercoat.
These multiuse designs are great for anyone with several cats or anyone who wants to keep sessions short and simple.
3. Deshedding Tools: Undercoat Protection
Dealing with flying fur? It’s a common headache, especially if your cat seems to shed year round. Tools like the Frisco Deshedding Cat Brush and the Dakpets Furblaster are made for reaching that thick undercoat where most stray hair builds up.
These deshedders use sturdy metal edges to pull out loose undercoat hair, which helps cut way down on how much fur you find on your clothes and furniture. Used once or twice a week, a deshedding tool makes shedding manageable, even during molting season.
Tips for Deshedding
- Always be gentle; deshedding tools are efficient but can be harsh if you apply too much pressure.
- Focus on problem areas like the sides, chest, and haunches, where undercoat is thickest.
Regular use helps prevent matting and keeps your home cleaner, too.
4. Dematting Combs: Getting Serious About Mats
Mats and knots can sneak up quickly, especially behind the ears, under the arms, and along the tail. For tough snags, a sturdy dematting comb is super useful. The GoPets Dematting Comb is a solid pick here, thanks to its dualsided blades that break up tangles without yanking.
If your cat already has a bad mat, trying to pull it out with a regular brush isn’t going to work (and you’ll both end up frustrated). A dematting tool slices through the worst knots with less discomfort, making the process faster and less dramatic for you and your cat.
Dematting Comb Best Practices
- Hold the fur above the mat to avoid tugging the skin.
- Work slowly and carefully to tease mats apart in sections.
5. Brushes for Sensitive Skin: Gentle Options
Some longhaired cats have pretty sensitive skin, especially on their belly and flanks. If that sounds familiar, a softbristle brush or a specialty product like the Aloe Care Cat Brush (which features aloe infused bristles) can help soothe while grooming.
These brushes are also a safe bet for kittens or senior cats who might hate the idea of metal pins but still need regular fur care. Soft bristles keep grooming comfortable, and you’ll know quickly if your cat prefers these gentler options.
6. Brushes for Dense Coats: Longer Pins and Special Features
Certain breeds (like Maine Coons or Persians) have extra thick coats that regular slickers sometimes don’t reach. The Babyliss Pro Long Pin Slicker comes with extended bristles to get deep into those dense layers and help pull out hidden tangles and loose hair.
Brushing the full coat means less matting and a glossier, healthier look. Extended pins are especially helpful if your cat’s fur gets clumped at the base, which can quickly become uncomfortable if ignored.
7. Convenience Brushes: AddOns and Special Touches
If you want to make grooming as easy as possible, there are some cool features worth considering. The Beauty by Benjamin model actually has a built-in shampoo pump, great for bath day. Others, like IWUWI, combine three functions in one handle (brushing, combing, and hair removal) so you’re always ready for whatever your cat’s coat needs.
8. How to Choose the Right Brush for Your Cat
There’s no one size fits all when it comes to grooming. Here’s what I always think through:
- Coat Length & Thickness: Thicker or denser fur usually needs longer pins and stronger bristles.
- Brush Type: Some cats prefer soft bristles, others need tough slickers or specialized deshedders.
- Skin Sensitivity: Always start gentle, especially if your cat flinches or avoids brushing.
- Ergonomic Handles: If you’re grooming daily, pick something comfortable for you, too.
- Durability: Quality brushes last longer and work better, making them worth the investment if you brush often.
9. Brushing Routine: How Often and Why It Matters
Daily brushing is the sweet spot for longhaired cats. It prevents tangles, catches shedding early, and helps your cat get used to the process so it’s less of a battle. Shorthair cats usually only need weekly sessions, but if there’s a long coat in the mix, more frequent care is important.
Regular grooming has surprising benefits, too; it spreads natural oils through the coat (making it shiny and soft), boosts circulation, and gives you a chance to check for skin issues or fleas. Plus, it builds trust and strengthens your bond with your pet over time.
Wrapping Up
Finding the right brush for your longhaired cat makes a huge difference, turning grooming from a struggle into a cozy part of your daily routine. Most cats relax and enjoy the attention as long as you’re gentle and patient. Try out a few styles if you’re not sure what your kitty prefers. Once you click with the right tool, both you and your cat will be a lot happier. And as a bonus, you’ll notice far less hair on your sofa, bed, and clothes! Remember that consistent grooming isn’t just about looks—it’s about comfort, health, and having more chill moments with your favorite feline friend.
