Cat shampoos have gentle ingredients and a mild formula. Since dogs have sensitive skin, you will need a mild shampoo for them. Now you may think, Can you use cat shampoo on dogs?
Well, you can bathe your dog with cat shampoo if you don’t have any other options. Compared to human shampoos, cat shampoos are safer for dogs. But they can’t cleanse as well as dog shampoos. Hence, using cat shampoo on your dog should not be a permanent solution.
Read more to get ideas about cat shampoo and its compatibility with dogs.
Cat Shampoo Vs. Dog Shampoo
Cat shampoo and dog shampoo are undoubtedly different from each other. As you can see, all animals have different pHs. In the same way, a dog’s pH and a cat’s pH are not the same, but almost the same.
Dogs and cats have a pH balance between 6.2 and 7.2. Hence, your dog may not get any extreme side effects from cat shampoo, as cats and dogs have almost the same skin.
Cats have more sensitive skin compared to dogs. They don’t have as many layers of coating as dogs do. Also, dogs’ skin is more durable than cats skin.
Manufacturers make cat shampoos based on cats’ skin and dog shampoos based on dogs’ skin. Cats’ skin is sensitive, so their shampoos are very gentle. Dogs’ skin is also sensitive, but not as much as cats. That’s why dog shampoos have more cleaning agents than cat shampoos. So, it is inevitable that cat shampoos are milder and gentler than dog shampoos.
Can You Use Cat Shampoo On Dogs?
You can use cat shampoo on your dog if you have to. Suppose you have run out of your dog’s shampoo, and it is your pooch’s bath day. In that case, cat shampoo can be a temporary solution.
Cat shampoos are too mild for dogs. Dogs can withstand more cleaning agents, which cat shampoos don’t have. After washing your dog with this shampoo, you may see that it is still dirty. However, if your dog is not soiled and needs a minor cleanse, you can use cat shampoo on it.
Benefits Of Using Cat Shampoo On Dogs
There are not many benefits to using cat shampoo on dogs. Its main benefit is that it is a temporary solution when you don’t have dog shampoo. Anyway, let’s see what the merits are.
Safe To Use
Using cat shampoo on a dog is a safer option than using other alternatives to dog shampoo. It is because cat shampoos are milder and can hardly lead to dryness.
Make Hair Smooth
Cat shampoo can make your dog’s hair look smooth and shiny. How? Cat shampoos have a maximum of moisturising ingredients. So, they can do the job of conditioners for dogs.
Drawbacks Of Using Cat Shampoo On Dogs
Skin Irritation
Although the pH levels of dogs and cats are the same, cats’ skin is more sensitive. Besides, cat shampoo has cat-friendly ingredients, which may not suit your dog’s skin. Hence, it can lead to skin irritation and dryness.
Allergic Reaction
Dogs with sensitive skin may get allergic reactions from cat shampoos, as they are made for cats. If your four-legged friend has the same skin, you may not use any products on him except dog shampoo.
Deteriorate Coat Health
Using a cat shampoo instead of a dog shampoo on your dog frequently can disrupt its coat health. Also, it can go through many skin issues.
When Can You Use Cat Shampoo On Dogs?
As we said, dog shampoos and cat shampoos are not the same. So, you can’t use them interchangeably. Now the question is, When can you use cat shampoo on dogs?
It is better to use cat shampoo when your dog is not muddy. It can be a fine option for a mild cleanse. Also, you can use it on your dog if you bathe it now and then. For instance, if you wash your dog every 15 days or 1 month, you can go with the cat shampoo only.
If you wash your pooch often, it is better to use dog shampoo. Cat shampoo cannot be great for dogs every time.
Although cat shampoo is good for your dog sometimes, don’t use it without your vet’s consultation. Your vet will know better which product to use on your dog based on its history.
Alternatives Of Cat Shampoo For Dogs
Like cat shampoo, there are other alternatives you can use for your dog. We assure you that these alternatives are safer than cat shampoo.
Wet Wipes
Wet wipes or baby wipes can be a saviour if you can’t clean your dog in another way. We know dogs have sensitive skin. Using any random product can cause allergic reactions. Luckily, wet wipes can clean your dog’s body without any side effects. Just make sure to avoid its eyes while wiping.
Castile Soap
Many dog owners prefer using castile soap on their pets. Thanks to its moisturising effects that leave the skin soft and supple. For better results, use this castile soap on your dog after mixing in some essential oils.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is not only a boon for human skin but also for animal skin. In fact, it is the safest alternative to bathing your dog.
Mix one cup of oatmeal with water and grind it. After it becomes a paste, apply a thin coat of it to your pup’s body.
Note: Don’t try any of these alternatives unless your vet approves.
Frequently Asked Questions: Can You Use Cat Shampoo On Dogs?
What soap can you use to wash your dog?
Whichever soap you use on your dog, make sure it is mild. Especially short-coated and hairless dogs can’t go without mild products. You can use baby soap or castile soap on your dog.
Can you use dish soap to wash your dog?
Yes, Dawn dish soap is a safe and superb alternative to washing dogs. It can be a good option if used after a specific time and not frequently. Also, use it under your vet’s guidance.
Are Johnson baby shampoos good for dogs?
Johnson baby shampoo does not have any harmful or toxic ingredients, which makes it safe to use on dogs. However, you can use it every time instead of dog shampoo.
Can you bathe your dog without shampoo?
Yes, you can skip using shampoo while bathing your dog. Instead, you can use a mixture of coconut oil, vinegar, and water as a cleansing solution.
Final Thoughts
We know cat shampoos are not like dog shampoos. Yet, if you think can you use cat shampoo on dogs, the answer is yes.
Cat shampoos won’t give you effective results; they will just cleanse your dog’s body anyway. Also, make sure you don’t use this shampoo regularly on your dog. Use it only if you run out of your dog’s shampoo. Most importantly, your vet should approve using cat shampoo on your dog; only then can you use it.
