Quick answer: For everyday shedding on most dogs and cats, a self-cleaning slicker brush is the easiest tool: brush, press the button, wipe the hair away. Thick or double-coated pets often need an undercoat rake or a deshedding comb as well. For pets that dislike brushes, a grooming glove lets you remove loose hair while petting.
Shedding is easier to live with when loose hair ends up on a brush instead of your sofa. The trick is to match the tool to the coat. Below we explain the main tool types, with the ones we carry, and how to use them gently.
Quick comparison
| Product | Best for | Key features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush | Everyday brushing, short to long hair | One-click hair release, fine stainless steel pins, non-slip handle | from $9.99 |
| Cat Head Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush | Cats and dogs, any coat length | Push button lifts hair off, curved pins with rounded tips | from $15.99 |
| Self-Cleaning Pet Comb | Tangles and finishing | Push-button release, fine or wide stainless steel teeth | from $9.99 |
| Long Pin Undercoat Rake | Thick, long or double coats | Double row of long stainless steel pins, T-handle with grip pad | from $15.99 |
| Curved Blade Deshedding Comb | Lifting loose undercoat | Curved blade with fine V-shaped teeth, removable head for cleaning | from $12.99 |
| Five-Finger Grooming Glove | Pets that dislike brushes | Silicone tips on palm and fingers, left or right hand | from $9.99 |
How to choose
Slicker brush: the everyday tool
A slicker brush has many fine wire pins that catch loose hair and small tangles near the surface. The self-cleaning kind saves the most annoying step: on our Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush, pressing the button pulls the pins back so the hair sits on top and wipes off. The Cat Head Slicker Brush works the same way, with curved pins with rounded tips and a playful shape. If your pet has small mats, the Double-Sided Slicker Brush (from $16.99) adds a firmer side.
Undercoat rake or deshedding comb: for thick coats
Double-coated dogs and long-haired cats have a soft undercoat under the top coat. A slicker brush may not reach it. The Long Pin Undercoat Rake has long pins meant to reach through the top coat, and the Curved Blade Deshedding Comb uses a curved blade of fine teeth that follows the body. Both are tools to use gently, in short strokes, and not on matted areas or irritated skin.
Comb: the finishing touch
A comb shows you whether you missed tangles and helps around the face and legs. Our Self-Cleaning Pet Comb comes with fine or wide teeth for different coats, and slides the hair off with a button.
Grooming glove: for nervous pets
Some pets will not sit still for a brush but love being petted. The Five-Finger Grooming Glove gathers loose hair with silicone tips while you stroke your pet. It is sold one glove at a time, so choose your left or right hand.
Size and coat tips
- Brush head size: a smaller head is easier on cats and small dogs and around legs; a larger head covers a big dog's back faster. The Double-Sided Slicker comes in a small (about 8.1 x 1.8 in) and large (about 8.5 x 3.7 in) head.
- Short coats: a slicker brush or a glove is usually enough.
- Medium and long coats: slicker brush plus a comb to check for tangles.
- Thick or double coats: add an undercoat rake or deshedding comb.
- Use light pressure. Pins and teeth should glide through the coat, not press into the skin. Brush in the direction the hair grows and stop if your pet seems uncomfortable.
- Work on a dry coat and clear hair from the tool as it builds up.
A simple brushing routine
Pick a calm moment, such as after a walk or a meal, and keep the first sessions to a few minutes. Start with the areas your pet enjoys, like the back and shoulders, and leave the belly, legs and tail for later. Work in sections, clear the brush often, and finish with the comb. A treat at the end helps your pet connect brushing with something good.
Our quick take
Most homes are well served by one self-cleaning slicker brush and one comb. If you have a husky-type dog or a fluffy long-haired cat, add an undercoat rake or deshedding comb. And if your pet runs from brushes, start with the glove and keep sessions short and positive.
FAQ
How often should I brush a shedding pet?
It depends on the coat and the season. Many owners brush a few times a week and more often during heavy shedding. Short, regular sessions are easier on your pet than one long session.
Can I use a slicker brush on a cat?
Yes, our self-cleaning slicker brushes are listed for dogs and cats. Use light pressure and short strokes, especially on the belly and legs.
What if my pet has mats?
Small tangles can often be worked out gently with the firm side of a double-sided slicker or a comb. Large or tight mats are best left to a professional groomer; do not pull hard or use a deshedding tool on them.
How do I clean the tools?
Remove the hair after each use. The slicker brushes and comb release hair with a button; wipe them with a damp cloth and let them dry fully.
All Pawsvia orders ship free within the US and usually arrive in 5-15 business days. If you are unsure about a size, write to us from our contact page with your pet's measurements and we will help you choose.