Is your furry friend scratching like a crazy DJ on their scratcher? Are there weird flakes on their beautiful fur? Does their skin look like a shiny ball with glitter on it? (Well, maybe not that bad, but you know what I mean.) It might be the scary fungus, making your kitty more unhappy than a hairball in a cleaner.
Well, to help you out of the mess of confusion and find you the best solution, I came up with the 10 best antifungal shampoos for your cat. So they can do what they love: sleeping in the sun, planning to rule the world, and leaving hairballs as small gifts to their greatness.
So get ready, get your catnip-smelling gear, and let’s go into the bubbly world of cat fungus-fighting! I’ll talk about soft shampoos for gentle cats, cheap options for many-cat homes, and even shampoos that smell so nice, you might want to use them too (don’t, believe me).
A Glimpse At The best antifungal shampoo for cats in 2024
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic & Antifungal Shampoo
- Antimicrobial for most common dermatological conditions
- Provides antifungal action against yeast, ringworm, mange, etc.
- Deodorizes and eliminates unpleasant odors
Rating : 4.6 out of 5
Vetoquinol Universal Medicated Shampoo
- Soap-free medicated for bacterial and fungal skin conditions in cats
- Relieves scaling caused by yeast or bacterial infections
- Prevents re-infection by killing bacteria on contact
Rating : 4.7 out of 5
Vetnique Labs Dermabliss Medicated Shampoo Anti-Bacterial
- Contains chlorhexidine gluconate, pramoxine hydrochloride and colloidal oatmeal
- Relieves itching, irritation and inflammation
- Soap-free and alcohol-free
Rating : 4.3 out of 5
Davis Miconazole Dog & Cat Shampoo
- Contains 2% miconazole nitrate and 2% colloidal oatmeal
- Treats fungal and bacterial skin infections
- pH-balanced and gentle on skin and coat
Rating : 4.6 out of 5
Dechra MiconaHex+Triz Shampoo
- Contains ceramides to repair dry, damaged skin
- Medicated for moderate to severe fungal or bacterial skin infections
- Has residual effects that last after rinsing
Rating : 4.7 out of 5
Douxo S3 PYO Antiseptic Antifungal Chlorhexidine Dog & Cat Shampoo
- Deep cleansing for bacterial or fungal skin infections
- Combines antibacterial chlorhexidine and antifungal ketoconazole
- Soothes and calms with aloe vera and oatmeal
Rating : 4.7 out of 5
Pet MD Medicated Shampoo for Cats
- Contains chlorhexidine gluconate, ketoconazole
- Cleanses and deodorizes cat’s skin and coat
- Antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial
Rating : 4.7 out of 5
Dechra Mal-a-ket Formulated Shampoo for Cats
- Formulated with acetic acid, ketoconazole, chlorhexidine, and TrizEDTA
- Treats moderate to severe bacterial/fungal infections in cats
- Degreases, cleanses, and conditions the coat
Rating : 4.7 out of 5
Jungle Pet Antiseptic Shampoo
- Contains chlorhexidine gluconate, aloe vera and vitamin E
- Promotes healing of skin infections and wounds
- Safe for dogs, cats and horses
Rating : 4.5 out of 5
Zymox Veterinary Strength Enzymatic Dog & Cat Shampoo
- Cleans and protects irritated and inflamed skin
- Contains natural enzymes to fight fungal and bacterial infections
- Gentle, tear-free, and non-drying formula
Rating : 4.7 out of 5
Scratch No More: 10 Best Solutions For Cat Fungal Problems Reviewed
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic & Antifungal Shampoo
| Ingredients | Ketoconazole |
| Smell | Fragranced |
| Deodorizing | Yes |
| Size | 16 Ounce |
Our first choice for antifungal shampoo is Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic & Antifungal Shampoo. It’s a budget-friendly and effective shampoo that has many happy customers. It’s a great deal for your money.
This shampoo not only fights fungi, but also nourishes and soothes the skin. It has coconut oil and aloe vera to moisturize and calm the skin. It also does not have any parabens, which can dry out the skin. Your cat’s skin will stay hydrated while getting rid of the infection.
The only downside of this shampoo is that it’s not for general cleaning. It does not clean the coat very well, so you might need to wash your cat with another shampoo first. This shampoo is mainly for treating fungal infections.
Pros
- Moisturizes and soothes with coconut oil and aloe vera
- Paraben-free and deodorizing
- Effective against fungal infections
Cons
- Poor cleansing properties
- Has artificial fragrance
Vetoquinol Universal Medicated Shampoo
| Ingredients | Chloroxylenol, salicylic acid, sodium thiosulfate |
| Smell | Fragranced |
| Deodorizing | Yes |
| Size | 16 Ounce |
Next one is Vetoquinol Universal Medicated Shampoo. It’s a budget-friendly and effective shampoo that has many happy customers. It’s our top choice for the best antifungal shampoo for cats.
This shampoo not only fights fungi, but also cleans the skin thoroughly. It helps to get rid of scales and flakes that can make the infection worse. It also works well with other topical treatments, like flea and tick preventatives.
The shampoo has a fragrance, but some cats might not like it or find it irritating. It also has a thick texture, so you might need to mix it with water to spread it evenly. But most owners say that this shampoo works fast and makes a big difference in one or two washes.
Pros
- Cleans and treats the skin
- Compatible with other topical treatments
- Works quickly and effectively
Cons
- Has artificial fragrance
- Has thick consistency
Vetnique Labs Dermabliss Medicated Shampoo Anti-Bacterial
| Ingredients | Chlorhexidine, ketoconazole |
| Smell | Fragranced |
| Deodorizing | Yes |
| Size | 16 Ounce |
Check out our next solution, Vetnique Labs Dermabliss Medicated Shampoo Anti-Bacterial. It’s a shampoo that has many satisfied customers, especially those who rescue cats and dogs with skin problems.
This shampoo has two active ingredients: chlorhexidine, which kills bacteria, and ketoconazole, which fights fungi. This helps to treat the infection at the root and ease the itching and discomfort. It also has a nice smell that helps to get rid of any bad odors.
The only downside of this shampoo is that it’s not for nourishing the skin or coat. It can dry out the natural oils that keep them healthy, so you might need to use a moisturizer after washing. This shampoo is mainly for medicating the skin.
Pros
- Kills bacteria and fungi on the skin
- Has a deodorizing effect
- Relieves itching, irritation and inflammation
Cons
- Dries out the skin and coat
Davis Miconazole Dog & Cat Shampoo
| Ingredients | Miconazole, colloidal oatmeal |
| Smell | Coconut |
| Deodorizing | Yes |
| Size | 12 Ounce |
If your dog or cat has a fungal skin infection, you might want to check out Davis Miconazole Dog & Cat Shampoo. It combines miconazole, a powerful antifungal agent, with ground oatmeal, a natural anti-inflammatory ingredient. This helps to treat the infection and soothe the skin.
The shampoo is also gentle on the skin, as it does not have any dyes or fragrances that could irritate it. Plus, it has aloe vera and fatty acids to nourish and hydrate the skin. It also has emollients, which are moisturizers that prevent the skin from drying out.
However, this shampoo is not very good for cleaning the coat, as it does not produce much lather. You might need to use a lot of it to cover the whole body.
Pros
- Moisturizes and protects the skin with emollients
- Free of dyes and fragrances
- Has aloe vera and fatty acids
Cons
- Does not clean the coat well
- Lathers poorly
Dechra MiconaHex+Triz Shampoo
| Ingredients | Miconazole, chlorhexidine |
| Smell | Fresh Smell |
| Deodorizing | Yes |
| Size | 8 Ounce |
Another solution for fungal or bacterial skin infection, give Dechra MiconaHex+Triz Shampoo a try. It’s a medicated shampoo that does more than just fight fungi. It also kills bacteria that can make the infection worse, and moisturizes the skin to reduce irritation.
The shampoo also has natural essential oils, like lavender and lemongrass, that help soothe and calm the skin. This can make your pet feel more comfortable while they heal from their infection.
The downside of this shampoo is that it’s more expensive than other shampoos. But you might end up saving money in the long run, because you won’t need to buy other products to deal with bacteria or dryness.
Pros
- Hydrates and repairs dry, damaged skin
- Contains soothing lavender and lemongrass oil
- Kills bacteria and fungi on the skin
Cons
- Pricier than other shampoos
Douxo S3 PYO Antiseptic & Antifungal Chlorhexidine Dog & Cat Shampoo
| Ingredients | Ophytrium, chlorhexidine |
| Smell | Coconut and Vanilla |
| Deodorizing | No |
| Size | 16.9 Ounce |
If you are looking for a shampoo that has a nice smell with power to fight fungi, you might want to consider Douxo S3 PYO Antiseptic & Antifungal Chlorhexidine Dog & Cat Shampoo. It’s a shampoo that does more than just fight fungi. It also cleans and hydrates the coat, so you don’t need to use another shampoo for that.
The shampoo also has Ophytrium, a natural ingredient that helps balance the skin’s microbes and promote healing. This can help your pet recover faster from their infection.
The shampoo has a fragrance, but it’s hypoallergenic, so it won’t bother your pet’s skin. However, some customers have complained that the shampoo’s formula has changed recently, and it’s not as effective as before.
Pros
- Has a pump bottle for easy use
- Balances and heals the skin
- Cleans and hydrates the coat
Cons
- More expensive than other shampoos
- Has a different formula than before
Pet MD Antiseptic & Antifungal Medicated Shampoo
| Ingredients | Chlorhexidine, ketoconazole, oatmeal, aloe |
| Smell | Fragranced |
| Deodorizing | Yes |
| Size | 16 Ounce |
Looking for a cure as well as a defense system for future fungal infection? Try Pet MD Antiseptic & Antifungal Medicated Shampoo. It’s a shampoo that works well as both a treatment and a prevention. It kills bacteria and fungi on the skin, while also moisturizing and soothing the skin. It can help your pet feel better and avoid future infections.
Many customers love this shampoo, but there is one thing you should know. The shampoo has a red/orange color, and it can stain your pet’s fur if you don’t rinse it well. This might not be a problem for dark-colored pets, but if your cat has a white or light coat, you might want to look for another shampoo.
Pros
- Treats and prevents fungal and bacterial infections
- Cleans and hydrates the skin
Cons
- Stains light-colored fur
- Lathers poorly
Dechra TrizCHLOR 4 Shampoo for Cats
| Ingredients | Chlorhexidine, TrizDETA, and betaine |
| Smell | UnScented |
| Deodorizing | No |
| Size | 8 Ounce |
If you are looking for unscented shampoo, you might want to check out Dechra TrizCHLOR 4 Shampoo for Cats. It’s a shampoo that has a strong formula that can kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses on the skin. It can also treat multi-drug resistant Staphylococci, which are hard to get rid of. You don’t need a prescription to buy this shampoo, which is convenient.
This shampoo also has betaine and chlorhexidine, which help to make your cat’s skin healthy and soft. It does not bother the skin if it’s ulcerated or irritated. It helps to soothe and heal the skin.
The only downside of this shampoo is that it can be irritating to the skin, eyes, and stomach. You need to be careful not to get it in your cat’s eyes or mouth. If your cat swallows it, it can be harmful.
Pros
- Kills bacteria, fungi, and viruses on the skin
- Treats multi-drug resistant Staphylococci
- Supports normal skin health and does not irritate ulcerated or irritated skin
Cons
- Can cause skin, eye, and digestive irritation
- Can be harmful if swallowed
Jungle Pet Antiseptic Shampoo
| Ingredients | Chlorhexidine and ketoconazole |
| Smell | Cucumber Melon |
| Deodorizing | Yes |
| Size | 8 Ounce |
The next antifungal solution is Jungle Pet Antiseptic Shampoo. It’s a shampoo that has ketoconazole and chlorhexidine, which are powerful agents that kill fungi and bacteria on the skin. It can help treat ringworm, hot spots, itching, and other skin issues. It also has a tropical cucumber melon scent that makes your pet smell fresh and clean.
This shampoo is versatile and effective. It can be used for various skin conditions, and it can speed up the healing process. It can also be used for both dogs and cats, so you don’t need to buy different shampoos for your pets. It’s made in the USA with high-quality ingredients, and it’s affordable too.
The only downside of this shampoo is that it does not condition the skin or coat very well. You might need to use a moisturizer after washing to keep your pet’s skin and coat healthy and soft.
Pros
- Kills fungi and bacteria on the skin
- Treats various skin conditions and speeds up healing
- Suitable for both dogs and cats, and budget-friendly
Cons
- Does not condition the skin or coat well
Zymox Veterinary Strength Enzymatic Dog & Cat Shampoo
| Ingredients | Lidocaine, Hydrocortisone, Oatmeal, Aloe Vera, Lactic Acid |
| Smell | Fragranced |
| Deodorizing | No |
| Size | 12 Ounce |
Last but not the least, Zymox Veterinary Strength Enzymatic Dog & Cat Shampoo. It’s a shampoo that is gentle on the skin, but effective against the infection. It was made in the USA with natural ingredients, so you don’t have to worry about any harsh chemicals.
This shampoo can help your pet feel better in no time, as it soothes and heals the irritated skin. It also has a mild, pleasant fragrance that leaves your pet smelling fresh and clean.
The only downside of this shampoo is that the scent is not very consistent. Some customers have said that it is too strong and smells like chemicals, while others have said that it is too weak and fades quickly. If you are picky about the smell, this might not be the best choice for you.
Pros
- Gentle and effective against fungal and bacterial infections
- Contains natural enzymes to fight fungal and bacterial infections
- Soothes and heals the skin
Cons
- Scent is not very reliable
The Most Common Fungal Infections In Cat
Fungal infections are when tiny organisms called fungi invade your cat’s skin, hair, nails, or organs. Some fungi are harmless, but others can cause serious diseases. Your cat can get fungal infections from contact with infected animals, soil, or things. Here are the most common skin fungal infections in cats:
- Ringworm: a contagious fungus that creates circular, itchy patches.
- Yeast Infections: Overactive yeast can sometimes lead to itchy, red skin, often around the ears, paws, or belly.
- Malassezia Dermatitis: This fancy name just means skin inflammation caused by yeast.
- Cryptococcosis: Basically a fungal disease, causes respiratory, nervous system, eye (eye) and skin damage.
- Coccidioidomycosis: Also called “valley fever” or “desert fever”, results in non-healing lumps, baldness, and leaking sores.
- Candidiasis: A fungal infection commonly found in a cat’s skin and it’s associated with immunosuppression.
- Cutaneous sporotrichosis: it causes lumps under the skin and draining wounds.
- Mycetomas: These fungi infect cats after severe traumas or through surgical incisions.
Symptoms of Fungal Infection In Cats
- Redness, swelling, or itching of the skin
- Scaling, cracking, or peeling of the skin
- Hair loss or brittle nails
- White patches or coating in the mouth or throat
- Nasal discharge, sneezing, or breathing problems
- Skin ulcers, nodules, or abscesses
- Seizures, blindness, or neurological signs
Causes of Fungal Infection In Cats
- Low immunity due to stress, illness, medication, etc.
- Warm, damp conditions from bathing, grooming, or living
- Contact with infected animals, bedding, or tools
- Skin damage from allergies, dermatitis, or wounds
- Exposure to fungi from soil, plants, or things
- Breed traits like thick fur and folded ears
How to Choose an Antifungal Shampoo
So, how do you know which one to choose? Here are some tips on what ingredients you should look for and what ingredients you should avoid.
Ingredients You Should Look For
- Fungus Foes Fighters: Antifungal shampoos should have active ingredients like ketoconazole, miconazole, or chlorhexidine. These are the good guys, ready to zap those yeasty bad guys and make peace to your kitty’s skin.
- Soothing Sidekicks: Look for soft ingredients like aloe vera or oatmeal. These moisturizing and soothing ingredients that can hydrate and calm the skin.
- Moisture Mavens: Look for shampoos with coconut oil or jojoba oil. These ingredients can help your cat’s skin heal faster and feel more comfortable.
Harmful Ingredients You Should Avoid
- Harsh Chemicals: Stay away from shampoos with sulfates, parabens, or alcohol. These can dry out and bother your cat’s skin, making the itch worse.
- Digestion Foe: Avoid ingredients that can be harmful if swallowed, such as alcohol, salicylic acid, or tea tree oil. These ingredients can cause digestive problems or toxicity in cats.
- Sneaky Dyes: Dyes and colorants are not needed and can bother sensitive skin. Stick to clear or natural-colored shampoos for gentle washing.
How Often Should You Bathe Your Cat With Antifungal Shampoo?
The answer depends on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the instructions on the shampoo label. Your vet can advise you on the best bathing schedule for your cat.
However, the ideal rule is, once a week for four weeks, or as directed by your vet. This will help to kill the fungi and heal the skin. You should not bathe your cat more than once every four to six weeks, unless your vet tells you otherwise.
Too much bathing can dry out and irritate your cat’s skin, making the infection worse. You should also avoid using other shampoos or products on your cat’s skin, unless your vet approves them.
How Long Does it Take for Antifungal Shampoo for Cats to Show Results?
Some fungal infections, like ringworm, can take several weeks or months to clear up completely. You may see some improvement in the first week or two, but you need to continue the treatment until your vet confirms that the infection is gone.
Other fungal infections, like cryptococcosis or aspergillosis, may require longer-term treatment with oral antifungal medication, in addition to the shampoo.
The best way to monitor the progress of your cat’s fungal infection is to follow your vet’s advice and check-ups. He/She may perform tests to evaluate the response to treatment.
Conclusion
Fungal infections can be very uncomfortable and harmful for your cat, so you need to choose the best antifungal shampoo to treat them effectively. Among the many options available, we recommend three products that stand out for their quality and value.
The first one is Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Shampoo, which is best selling on amazon as well as more affordable. The second one is Vetoquinol Universal Medicated Shampoo, which rarely has negative feedback from consumers. Also, this one in third, Vetnique Labs Dermabliss Medicated Shampoo Anti-Bacterial, has many positive reviews.
All of the above products act effectively for fungal infection, but it’s better to consult your veterinarian for the best advice on your cat’s specific condition.
Don’t let your cat suffer from fungal infections any longer. Get one of these amazing antifungal shampoos today and see the difference for yourself!