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Struggling with cat hair? 5 best automatic toys for long hair cats

Long haired cats need grooming and play. We compare 5 automatic toys including the Furminator DeShedding Tool to reduce mats and hairballs.

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Furminator DeShedding Tool for Long Hair Cats โ˜… Top Pick: Furminator DeShedding Tool for Long Hair Cats Check Price on Amazon →
90%
Shedding reduction with proper deshedding tool
3 to 4 times per week
Recommended grooming frequency for long hair cats
15 to 20 minutes
Daily interactive playtime for cats
1 in 5
Cats that develop hairballs without regular grooming
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Furminator DeShedding Tool for Long Hair Cats. The Furminator is the gold standard for deshedding long-haired cats.
  • Best Budget: Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush. This slicker brush has fine, bent wires that remove mats and tangles from long hair.
  • Best Interactive Toy: Catit Senses 2.0 Play Circuit. This automatic toy features a ball that moves along a track, encouraging your cat to chase.
  • Best for Sensitive Cats: PetFusion Slicker Brush for Cats. This brush has rounded stainless steel tips that are gentle on sensitive skin.
  • Best Solo Toy: SmartyKat Hot Pursuit Concealed Motion Cat Toy. This toy has a wand that moves unpredictably under a fabric cover, mimicking prey.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

Our top pick is the Furminator DeShedding Tool because it effectively removes loose undercoat without damaging the topcoat. For cats that prefer interactive play, the Catit Senses 2.0 Play Circuit offers self-directed fun. The Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is a great budget-friendly option for daily grooming.

What to consider for Automatic Cat Toy For Long Hair Cats

Long-haired cats like Persians and Maine Coons have dense coats prone to matting and excessive shedding. An automatic cat toy for them should combine grooming with play. Look for tools that reach the undercoat without irritating the skin. Interactive toys that encourage movement can also help reduce hairballs by promoting grooming behavior. Safety is paramount: avoid toys with small parts or strings that could be ingested.

What to look for in a cat grooming tool or toy

First, match the tool to your cat’s coat type. Long hair requires a tool with longer, rounded-tip bristles or stainless steel teeth that penetrate without scratching. Second, gentle handling is crucial; cats with sensitive skin benefit from self-cleaning brushes or silicone massagers. Third, ensure materials are non-toxic and BPA-free. Fourth, choose the right size for your cat’s comfort. Finally, look for genuine enrichment value: toys that mimic prey movement or provide treat rewards keep your cat engaged and reduce stress.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated product specifications and customer reviews for safety and durability.
  • Prioritized tools designed specifically for long-haired cats.
  • Considered ease of use for both cat and owner.
  • Checked for non-toxic materials and rounded tips to prevent injury.
  • Included a range of price points to suit different budgets.
  • Focused on products that address shedding, matting, and play needs.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Avoid toys with small parts or loose strings that a cat can swallow.
  • Do not use harsh brushes with sharp metal tines on sensitive skin.
  • Never leave a cat unsupervised with wand or string toys.
  • Do not use human grooming products like brushes or clippers on cats.

For more cat care tips, visit our cat guides, cat food, and cat health pages.

Why this matters

Long-haired cats require regular grooming to prevent painful mats and hairballs. The right automatic toy can combine play with grooming, reducing stress and keeping your cat healthy.

The Options

Types Explained

Deshedding tools

Tools with metal teeth or blades that remove loose undercoat hair, reducing shedding and mats.

Best for: Cats with thick undercoats that shed heavily, such as Maine Coons and Persians.

Slicker brushes

Brushes with fine wire bristles that remove tangles and loose hair from the topcoat.

Best for: Daily grooming to prevent mats and keep the coat smooth.

Interactive automatic toys

Battery-powered toys that move or dispense treats to engage cats in play.

Best for: Cats that need mental stimulation and exercise, especially indoor cats.

Self-grooming tools

Stationary brushes or mats that cats rub against to groom themselves.

Best for: Cats that enjoy independent grooming and need help reaching certain areas.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Furminator DeShedding Tool for Long Hair Cats
Best Overall

Furminator DeShedding Tool for Long Hair Cats

View on Amazon

The Furminator is the gold standard for deshedding long-haired cats. Its stainless steel edge reaches the undercoat to remove loose hair before it sheds. It reduces shedding by up to 90 percent. However, it should be used gently to avoid skin irritation, and some cats may dislike the sensation.

#2
Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Best Budget

Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

View on Amazon

This slicker brush has fine, bent wires that remove mats and tangles from long hair. The self-cleaning button retracts bristles for easy hair removal. It is affordable and gentle, but it may not be as effective on very thick undercoats as the Furminator.

#3
Catit Senses 2.0 Play Circuit
Best Interactive Toy

Catit Senses 2.0 Play Circuit

View on Amazon

This automatic toy features a ball that moves along a track, encouraging your cat to chase and bat. It provides mental stimulation and exercise, which can reduce stress-related shedding. The track is easy to clean, but some cats may lose interest if not rotated with other toys.

#4
PetFusion Slicker Brush for Cats
Best for Sensitive Cats

PetFusion Slicker Brush for Cats

View on Amazon

This brush has rounded stainless steel tips that are gentle on sensitive skin. It effectively removes loose hair and prevents mats. The ergonomic handle provides comfort during grooming sessions. A trade-off is that it may require more passes to remove the same amount of hair as a Furminator.

#5
SmartyKat Hot Pursuit Concealed Motion Cat Toy
Best Solo Toy

SmartyKat Hot Pursuit Concealed Motion Cat Toy

View on Amazon

This toy has a wand that moves unpredictably under a fabric cover, mimicking prey. It activates automatically when the cat approaches, providing solo play. It helps long-haired cats stay active and reduce boredom. However, the toy requires batteries and the fabric cover may need occasional cleaning.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Coat type compatibility

Ensure the tool is designed for long hair. Look for longer bristles or teeth that can penetrate the dense undercoat without pulling.

02

Safety features

Choose toys with no small parts, non-toxic materials, and rounded tips. Avoid anything with loose strings or feathers that could be swallowed.

03

Ease of cleaning

Self-cleaning brushes or toys with removable covers make maintenance easier. Hair buildup can reduce effectiveness and harbor bacteria.

04

Cat's temperament

Some cats prefer interactive play, while others enjoy solo toys. Consider your cat's personality to choose a toy that will actually be used.

05

Durability

Long-haired cats can be rough on toys. Look for sturdy construction and materials that can withstand scratching and biting.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Grooming frequency

Brush your long-haired cat at least three to four times per week. During shedding season, daily brushing may be necessary to prevent mats and hairballs.

Cleaning the tool

After each use, remove hair from the brush or tool. For self-cleaning brushes, press the button to retract bristles. Wash removable parts with mild soap and water monthly.

Introducing the tool

Allow your cat to sniff the tool before use. Start with short sessions and reward with treats. Gradually increase time as your cat becomes comfortable.

Pro tip

To make grooming easier, use a detangling spray designed for cats before brushing. This reduces static and helps the brush glide through the coat, making the experience more pleasant for your cat.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I groom my long-haired cat?
Long-haired cats should be groomed at least three to four times per week. During heavy shedding seasons, daily brushing is recommended to prevent mats and reduce hairballs. Regular grooming also helps distribute natural oils and keeps the coat healthy. Always use a brush suitable for long hair to avoid discomfort.
What is the best deshedding tool for long-haired cats?
The Furminator DeShedding Tool is widely considered the best for long-haired cats. Its stainless steel edge reaches the undercoat to remove loose hair before it sheds. However, it must be used gently to avoid skin irritation. For cats with sensitive skin, a slicker brush with rounded tips may be a better choice.
Can I use a deshedding tool on a cat with sensitive skin?
Yes, but choose a tool with rounded tips and gentle pressure. The PetFusion Slicker Brush has rounded stainless steel tips that are safe for sensitive skin. Always test on a small area first and stop if your cat shows signs of discomfort. Regular grooming can actually improve skin health by stimulating circulation.
What materials are safe for automatic cat toys?
Look for toys made from non-toxic, BPA-free plastics and fabrics. Avoid toys with small parts that can be chewed off and swallowed. Natural materials like organic cotton or sisal are also safe. Always check the manufacturer's safety certifications and supervise play with new toys.
Are interactive toys better than solo toys for long-haired cats?
Both have benefits. Interactive toys like the Catit Play Circuit provide mental stimulation and bonding time with you. Solo toys like the SmartyKat Hot Pursuit allow independent play when you are busy. A mix of both is ideal to prevent boredom and encourage exercise.
Should I supervise my cat with automatic toys?
Yes, especially with toys that have strings, wands, or small parts. Even durable toys can break over time. Supervise initial play sessions to ensure your cat uses the toy safely. Remove any damaged toys immediately to prevent ingestion of parts.
What should I do if my cat swallows a string from a toy?
If you suspect your cat has swallowed a string, contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not pull the string if it is protruding from the mouth or anus, as this can cause internal damage. Keep all string toys out of reach when not supervised.
Can scratching posts help with grooming long-haired cats?
Scratching posts help remove loose claw sheaths and provide exercise, but they do not replace brushing. Some cats rub against sisal posts to self-groom, which can help with minor tangles. However, regular brushing is still necessary to prevent mats and reduce shedding.
My cat hates being brushed. What should I do?
Start by letting your cat sniff the brush and reward calm behavior with treats. Use a gentle brush like a silicone massager or a glove brush to build positive associations. Brush for short periods, gradually increasing time. If your cat remains stressed, consult a certified cat behaviorist for desensitization techniques.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Cat Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.