Quick answer: Yes — deshedding gloves work well for removing loose fur from short- and medium-haired cats and dogs, especially pets that hate brushes. They will not stop shedding (nothing does), and they are not the right tool for thick undercoats or mats. For everyday loose fur, a 5-minute glove session 2–3 times a week makes a visible difference.
If you are thinking about buying a deshedding glove, you have probably seen the videos: someone pets their cat, then peels off a glove covered in fur. It looks too easy. Here is an honest look at what these gloves do well, where they fall short, and how to get the most out of one.
How does a deshedding glove work?
A deshedding glove has soft silicone tips on the palm and fingers. As you pet your animal, the tips do three things at once:
- Grab loose fur. Static and friction pull out hair that has already detached from the skin.
- Massage the skin. The rubber tips feel like petting, not grooming. This is why glove-shy pets tolerate it.
- Spread natural oils. Light massage distributes skin oils through the coat, which keeps it shinier.
The fur sticks to the silicone in a mat you can peel off in one piece. No refills, no batteries — you rinse the glove and use it again.
What a deshedding glove does well
- Cats and dogs that hate brushes. To your pet, a glove session is just petting. Many owners find it is the only grooming tool their cat will allow.
- Short and medium coats. Labs, beagles, pit bulls, domestic shorthair cats — the glove shines here.
- Daily maintenance. A few minutes every other day catches fur before it lands on your couch.
- Bath time. The glove works on wet coats too, and helps lather shampoo.
What a deshedding glove will NOT do
We sell these gloves, and we would rather you know the limits before you buy:
- It will not stop shedding. Shedding is normal and healthy. A glove moves the fur from your pet to your trash can instead of your furniture — that is the whole promise.
- It is not a dematting tool. Mats and tangles need a comb or a groomer. Do not pull at them with anything.
- Thick double coats need more. If you have a husky or a Maine Coon blowing its coat, the glove helps with surface fur, but an undercoat tool does the heavy lifting.
How to use it right (most people rub too hard)
- Use light pressure — let the silicone tips do the work.
- Stroke in the direction the fur grows.
- Keep sessions short: 5 minutes is plenty.
- Peel the fur mat off the palm and toss it.
- Rinse the glove and let it air-dry.
For a full step-by-step routine, see our guide on how to deshed a cat without the drama.
Ready to try one?
The Furly Deshedding Glove has soft silicone tips, fits either hand, and works on dogs and cats. Free US shipping and a 30-day money-back guarantee — if your pet hates it, send it back.
Shop the Deshedding Glove — $24.99Tip: the glove pairs well with our Steam Brush for cats with thicker coats — and any 2 items get 10% off automatically at checkout (3 or more get 15% off).
Frequently asked questions
Do deshedding gloves work on long-haired cats?
They help with surface fur, but long coats also need a comb to reach the undercoat and prevent mats. Use the glove for daily upkeep and a comb once or twice a week.
How often should I use a deshedding glove?
Two or three short sessions a week works for most pets. During heavy shedding season (spring and fall), a few minutes daily is even better.
Can I use a deshedding glove on a puppy or kitten?
Yes. The silicone tips are gentle, and starting young teaches your pet that grooming feels like petting. Keep sessions very short at first.
How do I clean a deshedding glove?
Peel off the collected fur, rinse the glove under warm water, and air-dry it. That is it — no refills or replacement parts.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet's shedding changes suddenly or you see bald spots or irritated skin, talk to your vet.