10 best furminators for cats and dogs

Many owners who have experienced in practice what a furminator for cats is, highly appreciated this device. The appearance of a pet furry in an apartment is almost always overshadowed by the struggle with fur, which begins to appear everywhere, sometimes causing allergic reactions. Neither a vacuum cleaner nor various combs and brushes help to cope with the problem. Losing hair also causes a lot of trouble for the animal itself. If swallowed, it may cause vomiting or cause intestinal blockage. Using a furminator relieves the cat from such problems, greatly facilitating the combing procedure for the owner.

Furminator for cats - what is it?

A professional grooming tool is already familiar to many cat lovers. The simple design makes it easy to use at home. Resembling in appearance a small metal rake on a comfortable handle, the device operates on the principle of a trimmer. During use, the sharpened teeth lift the undercoat without cutting it. Due to the sufficient distance between the teeth, the main hair remains intact. At the same time, the fatty lubricant, distributed evenly, gives the coat a beautiful shine.

Using the device up to three times a week can remove 90% of all dead hair. Gaining more and more popularity, furminators for cats and cats have only positive reviews among owners of pets. Everyone notes that the animals began to look much more well-groomed, and there was almost no hair in the house.

How does a furminator work?

Combing cats using a furminator is carried out due to the adjusted distance between the teeth of a comb sharpened in a special way. The operating principle of the furminator is to gently lift and remove unwanted hair without cutting or pulling out.

The tool does not damage the cat's outer coat (the outer coat slips through the teeth of the device, remaining intact), but it removes dead, lifeless hairs and undercoat.

It is believed that the miracle comb removes about 90% of a cat’s unwanted hair, and also reduces the duration of seasonal shedding by half (by the way, in some individuals, without careful combing, the hair can shed not even for weeks, but for months).

In addition, the use of a cat accessory promotes the uniform distribution of fatty lubricant, which protects the pet from cold and overheating, dust and parasites.

How to choose

The quality of hair combing, as well as the well-being of the pet itself during the procedure, depends on the correct choice of device. There are many types of furminators, and new models are constantly being released. The most recent of them can only be seen in photographs. Before choosing a furminator for cats, you should pay attention to the size of your pet and the length of its coat. For animals with long hair, purchase a tool with appropriate teeth that can easily penetrate the hair. Moving in the direction of hair growth, the comb does not pull it.

Another parameter that requires attention when choosing a tool is the width of the ridge. For kittens and small cats, a comb width of 3.3 cm will be sufficient. Animals whose weight does not exceed 6 kg require a comb 4.5–7.0 cm wide. For particularly large exotic breeds, such as the Maine Coon, purchase a Furminator with a comb width of 10 cm.

In addition, all devices are divided into 2 types - deluxe and classic. They differ in the material from which the handle is made and the degree of its ergonomics. So, in classic-type furminators, the hair has to be removed from the comb by hand. In deluxe devices this is done by pressing the special FURejector button, which is more convenient.

General information

History of creation and purpose

The furminator looks like a razor, but in fact it is an ergonomic handle for the owner and a special comb with serrations and a blade for the cat. Combing a cat with a furminator does not require special skills, and for the animal the process causes less trauma and stress than the previous procedure with a comb and a slicker brush.

IMPORTANT: the advantage of the furminator is not only in maintaining the appearance of the cat, ease of cleaning and the safety of things, but also in the fact that the cat does not swallow a critical mass of its fluff, does not clog its stomach and does not get sick from intestinal obstruction due to the accumulation of hairballs.

How to use a furminator

Furminator is especially effective during the cat’s molting period, when the active phase of seasonal change of undercoat occurs.

If the cat needs bathing, then before using the Furminator for the first time this season, it is better to wash it. Afterwards we dry the cat and comb it with a large regular comb to check if there are tangles somewhere. If we find a tangle, we untangle it or carefully cut off the ball itself.

After the cat is prepared, we begin to comb it with a furminator. You need to scratch your cat only in the direction of hair growth, otherwise you can injure the skin.

The size of a furminator for cats always depends on the length of the coat, and not on the thickness. Since the device is universal for all pets, size S (small 4.5 cm) or M (medium 6.7 cm) is suitable for adult cats. For kittens choose XS (x-small 3.3 cm), and for large breeds weighing over 10 kg you can even choose L (large 10 cm).

IMPORTANT: not all Furminators have a division into long and short hair, but sometimes there are marks. A Furminator for cats with long hair should be marked Long hair.

For the convenience of the owner, some manufacturers also have a division into standard and deluxe furminators, but the difference is only in a special bar with a button for removing fluff from the comb with one roller. The cat is neither warm nor cold from this plank.

IMPORTANT: when purchasing a furminator, pay attention to the quality of the teeth themselves. The notches on the teeth must be made without burrs, otherwise you will injure the cat by tearing out the still growing fluff.

Which cats are not suitable for the Furminator?

Obviously, hairless and velor cats do not need a furminator, since they simply have nothing to comb. But uninterested cats also include Asian cat breeds without undercoat. In such breeds, only the axial hair grows from the follicle and shedding can be treated with a regular hair comb.

Exception breeds for the Furminator:

• Oriental cat;
• Turkish Angora;
• Rex;
• Balinese;
• La perm;
• Singaporean;
• Burmese cat;
• Tiffany.

IMPORTANT: if a cat of any breed has dermatitis or infection with a fungus (lichen) or mites, the Furminator should absolutely not be used until complete recovery.

Advantages

Compared to conventional combs, the advantages of the furminator are obvious:

• Up to 90% of dead hair is removed.
• Thanks to the special design of the teeth, the guard hair is not injured when combing. After the procedure, there is no formation of tangles in animals with long and thin hair.
• During the combing process, the skin is saturated with oxygen, and the condition of the epidermis improves.
• The activity of the sebaceous glands increases. The fat layer distributed throughout the coat protects it from external negative influences.
• The procedure using a furminator is completely painless and is perceived calmly by the pet.

The tool is convenient and easy to use. This does not require any special skills. The procedure can be easily performed at home even by novice cat owners. Anyone who wants to see their pet well-groomed and beautiful can cope with this.

Terms of use

Before you start using the tool, you must read the instructions. There are general rules regarding how to properly use a furminator:

• The animal's skin must be carefully examined for wounds, abrasions, bruises, and ulcers. If there is any damage to the skin, the device cannot be used. All tangles must be removed.
• It is advisable to bathe your pet before the procedure. Dry the wool thoroughly and comb it with a regular comb.
• Combing with a furminator is carried out only in the direction of hair growth. Otherwise, we risk damaging the guard hair. Movements should be light, without pressure. Using force can cause pain and irritation to your pet. Particular care should be taken with the brush in the genital area, on the stomach and paws. It is advisable to watch the video before you start using the furminator for cats and cats.

Although the procedure for combing your pet using a furminator can be carried out at any time, experts recommend doing this during the animal’s molting period. It usually occurs at the beginning of spring and end of summer. Brushing is done at least 2 times a week. At other times, the procedure is done once a month. For short-haired breeds, 5–7 times a year is sufficient. It is recommended to comb your cat in hot weather. Removing excess fur will ease its condition, helping it cope with the heat.

How to use

There are no difficulties in using the furminator, since its design is extremely clear and the handle is ergonomic. It is important to examine the cat before starting the procedure so as not to cause any discomfort to it.

• There should be no damage to the furry pet's skin.
• There should be no tangles in the wool.
• The wool must be clean.

To make grooming a favorite pastime for your pet, you should follow these recommendations:

• You need to “comb” your cat in the direction of hair growth.
• You should be especially attentive and careful under the tail, on the tummy and paws.
• Do not press hard when reaching the skin, so as not to injure the animal.

For whom is Furminator contraindicated?

There are cat breeds for which there is no point in purchasing this original tool. These include:

• Sphinx;
• Devon Rex;
• Laperm;
• Singaporean;
• Turkish Angora;
• Oriental;
• Burmanskaya.

And also some others. These cats don't have to be hairless. Many of them are simply characterized by the absence of undercoat. Therefore, they are combed out with a regular brush.

The furminator should not be used if the animal has injuries or congenital skin diseases.

How to use a furminator correctly

Before using the tool, you should carefully study the operating instructions. Then proceed as follows:

1. If there are tangles on the animal, they must be cut off with scissors or a tangle cutter.
2. Bathe and dry your pet.
3. Using gentle and leisurely movements, begin combing your pet according to the hair growth, without pressing the furminator.
4. Brush the tummy, paws, and tail in turn, starting from the head and ending with the tail and panties under it.

Video: how to use a furminator

Precautionary measures

When using the Furminator, observe the following precautions:

• Its use is prohibited if the cat has skin diseases, wounds, rashes, inflammation, scratches and cuts.
• You cannot use a furminator on tangles - it will be very unpleasant and painful for the cat.
• Do not use the tool on damp or wet wool; it must be perfectly dry.
• If you have never used a furminator, then first learn the principle of operation, small nuances (how to hold the tool correctly, with what force to comb the fur), so as not to cause unpleasant sensations to your animal.
• After use, the instrument must be cleaned, capped and put away until next time.

You cannot use a Furminator if your cat does not have an undercoat or has special coat features. These include the following cat breeds:

• sphinx;
• Devon Rex;
• Cornish Rex;
• Burmese;
• tiffany;
• oriental;
• la perm;
• Singaporean;
• shorthaired balinese.

How often can I use it?

The frequency of use of the furminator depends on the time of year, the length of the animal’s fur and its individual characteristics:

• During heavy shedding (autumn and spring), it is best to brush your pet twice a week.
• In summer, you can use the furminator once a week, even if there is no shedding. This will help your cat feel comfortable in the heat.
• During the winter, it is best to comb your cat with a furminator once. The undercoat warms the cat, and this animal loves warmth.
• If you have a short-haired animal, then using the Furminator should not exceed 6-7 times a year.

The cat is combed with a furminator according to hair growth

Popular models

Devices that are convenient and economical are suitable for home use. The most popular among such models are products from FURminator. Most reviews note the fact that the fur becomes much more well-groomed after combing with this furminator. There are no negative consequences for the pet even with constant use of the tool. As a result, blood circulation improves and the coat takes on a healthy, shiny appearance. The device is especially indispensable for Persian cats.

Furminators from the German manufacturer TRIXIE also deserve a high positive rating. The offered models are designed for different levels of undercoat. Capable of handling hair of any length. The combing process using the TRIXIE furminator is quite simple and does not require much effort. The working part of the tool is made of high-strength stainless steel. The plastic handle is additionally equipped with a rubber grip. The teeth have a special structure, thanks to which only completely dead undercoat is removed.

The HelloPet furminator made in Taiwan has a lot of positive reviews. As many as 65 teeth distinguish this modern pet combing tool. With its help, you can get rid of excess hair quickly and without much effort. The set includes both a straight comb and a curved one, designed for careful processing of individual areas.

IPTS is one of the most sold brands. The low price of the furminator for cats is combined with the excellent ability of the tool to comb out fur efficiently. The device is intended primarily for representatives of the British and Scottish breeds. Unlike more expensive models, it has one drawback - the blade requires replacement every 2 years. However, this can always be done at a low cost.

Foolee furminators are incredibly stylish and colorful. They have a comfortable, curved body. A wide range of colors allows you to choose the instrument to suit your taste. According to consumer reviews, it removes undercoat best – up to 95%.

You can now see the current price of the furminator and buy it right here:

The best furminator for cats

Based on the reviews left and the demand for a unique device in stores, we have prepared a review of the best furminator models for cats to help you make your choice.

1. Furminator Short Hair Small Cat is designed to care for the hair of small, smooth-haired cats. This model will be convenient to use for owners of, for example, an Abyssinian cat. The blade of this device is 4 cm wide, and therefore is able to penetrate deep into the fur and clean out excess hairs without touching or injuring the animal’s skin.

If you are the owner of a Persian or Siberian cat, then another model will be preferable for you - Long Hair Small or Long Hair Large Cat. Both types are similar to each other, they are distinguished only by the color of the ejectors and the different lengths of the comb teeth.

1. Furminator 42065M (Taiwan), often offered by online stores. The blade is up to 4.5 cm wide for best combing of the hair of medium breed cats. The device itself is made of plastic, but its teeth are metal. The Furminator is easy to use due to the presence of an ergonomic handle equipped with rubberized inserts and a thumb rest.
2. Furminator. Very popular among cat lovers. Cat owners highlight it for its distinctive ease of use, low cost and the ability to replace the knife.

This was the TOP of the best furminators for cats, recognized by furry owners. But this does not mean that you need to stop at a specific brand. Choose a product that meets your criteria, because in principle, all furminators cope well with the problem of hair in cats.

What is a furminator

The Furminator is a relatively recent innovation in the zoo world, an improved type of cat comb with strong metal teeth. The device was invented by groomers from the USA.

The tool works almost like a trimmer, ridding the animal of excess dead hair, but without affecting the guard hairs. Due to the teeth of the device, the fallen wool is firmly grabbed and pulled to the surface, and the hair that has not yet fallen out is cut off by blades located between the long teeth. The guard hairs are not affected at all due to the unusual design of the furminator.

All that remains is with a damp cloth or simply by hand, remove all the combed out undercoat and throw it away.

Some pet owners collect this fluff to later use for felting or knitting.

Furminator is an improved comb with many teeth, operating on the principle of a trimmer.

The Furminator is ideal for the following cat breeds:

• chinchillas;
• Persian;
• Somali;
• Maine Coon;
• ragdoll;
• Norwegian forest;
• Siberian

As you can see from the list, the Furminator is good mainly for long-haired breeds. Of course, he won’t be able to comb out all the fur, but he is quite capable of reducing the amount of hair lying around the house.

Life time

If the operating rules are followed and handled with care, the furminator will serve for a long time. All you need for this:

• Avoid mechanical damage to the device, which could cause the teeth to break or bend.
• Use the tool in accordance with the instructions. Be sure to ensure that the animal’s fur is clean and free of tangles and knots.

No comb can replace a furminator in terms of combing quality. With regular use, the pet's appearance improves significantly, which is of particular importance for show animals.