Best Cat Brushes for Short Hair: Top 10 Picks

Optimizing feline coat maintenance for short-haired breeds requires specialized deshedding tools. Identifying the best cat brush for short hair involves understanding bristle density, ergonomic handle design, and material efficacy in lifting loose fur without causing irritation. For owners of domestic short-haired cats, the challenge lies in selecting a grooming implement that penetrates the dense undercoat while remaining gentle on the skin.

For owners of domestic short-haired cats, the challenge lies in selecting a grooming implement that penetrates the dense undercoat while remaining gentle on the skin. Effective deshedding is crucial for preventing hairballs, reducing shedding, and promoting a healthy, glossy coat. The technology behind advanced grooming combs and brushes aims to replicate professional salon results at home, making the quest for the best short hair cat brush paramount.

Uncover the top contenders designed to enhance your pet’s well-being and keep your home cleaner.

Short Hair Success: Your Best Brush Awaits

Image	Product	Price
Best Pick 1	Swihauk Self Cleaning Slicker Brush – Skin Friendly Deshedding Grooming	Check Price
Best Pick 2	SleekEZ Cat Brush for Shedding & Cat Brushes for Indoor	Check Price
Best Pick 3	Aumuca Cat Brush for Shedding, Cat Brushes for Indoor Cats,	Check Price
Best Pick 4	Dipoo Self Cleaning Shedding Brush – Skin Friendly Grooming Tool	Check Price
Best Pick 5	Cat Hair Brush,Cat Brush for Shedding,Soft Silicone Self Cleaning Brushes	Check Price

1. Swihauk Self Cleaning Slicker Brush – Skin Friendly Deshedding Grooming

Tired of battling shedding fur and uncomfortable grooming sessions? The Swihauk Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush offers a gentle yet highly effective solution for keeping your furry friend looking and feeling their best. This innovative grooming tool is designed for ease of use and maximum comfort, making it a must-have for any pet owner.

Engineered with skin-friendly, rounded bristles and a convenient self-cleaning mechanism, this brush effortlessly removes loose undercoat and excess fur from both short and long-haired pets. Its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance, transforming your pet’s grooming routine into a positive bonding experience.

Pros

• Effortless Deshedding: The release bottom mechanism of this pet grooming brush makes removing collected fur a breeze, significantly reducing shedding around your home. It excels as a cat brush for shedding and a slicker brush for dogs, tackling stubborn loose hair with ease.
• Pet-Comfort Focused Design: Featuring soft, protective rounded bristles, the Swihauk brush ensures a pleasant grooming experience, preventing any scratching or discomfort on your pet’s delicate skin. This makes it an ideal puppy brush for small dogs and a gentle cat grooming tool.
• Durability and Quality: Constructed from premium stainless steel and robust TPR materials, this de-shedding brush is built to withstand frequent use, offering a reliable grooming solution for years to come.
• Ergonomic and User-Friendly: The lightweight, high-quality TPR handle provides a comfortable grip, making extended grooming sessions feel effortless. The integrated self-cleaning button simplifies the post-grooming cleanup process.
• Versatile Application: This effective deshedding tool is suitable for a wide range of pets, including dogs of various breeds like golden retrievers and small terriers, as well as cats, kittens, puppies, rabbits, and bunnies, regardless of their coat length.

Cons

• While highly effective for most pets, some users with extremely thick or matted fur might find it requires multiple passes.

The Swihauk Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush stands out as a superior choice for maintaining your pet’s coat, simplifying the often-dreaded task of shedding management. It’s the perfect tool for pet owners seeking a gentle, efficient, and user-friendly way to keep their companions looking sleek and feeling comfortable.

2. SleekEZ Cat Brush for Shedding & Cat Brushes for Indoor

Tired of battling shedding season? Discover the SleekEZ Cat Brush, celebrated as the world’s best cat hair brush.

This revolutionary grooming tool effortlessly tackles excess fur, leaving your home cleaner and your feline friend happier. It’s an essential for any cat owner seeking effective shedding control.

This innovative patented grooming brush is designed for optimal cat shedding removal, making it ideal for short hair cats and even long-haired breeds. Beyond grooming your pet, the SleekEZ excels at cleaning homes, efficiently removing pet hair from furniture, bedding, and carpets. Its versatility extends to small dogs and rabbits.

Its versatility extends to small dogs and rabbits.

Pros

• Exceptional Deshedding Power: Patented design effectively removes loose undercoat and shedding fur, a top-tier cat deshedding tool for comprehensive hair removal.
• Multi-Surface Cleaning: Acts as a powerful pet hair remover for carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding, simplifying household cleanup from cat fur.
• Suitable for All Coat Types: Works wonderfully as a short hair cat brush and an effective cat comb for long haired cats, proving its value as an all-hair cat brush.
• Comfortable Grooming Experience: Designed for a painless and enjoyable grooming session, making it a great kitten brush and essential for cat grooming.
• Versatile Pet Tool: Functions effectively as a small dog brush and rabbit brush, offering broad application for multiple pet households and pet supplies.

Cons

• The cleaning of the brush itself can sometimes require a bit of effort to remove all the accumulated fur after a thorough grooming session.

The SleekEZ Cat Brush is a must-have addition to your cat essentials, especially for indoor cats prone to shedding. It’s more than just a cat brush for shedding; it’s a complete solution for a cleaner home and a more comfortable pet.

3. Aumuca Cat Brush for Shedding, Cat Brushes for Indoor Cats,

Discover the ultimate grooming solution for your feline friend with the Aumuca Cat Brush for Shedding. Designed to tackle loose fur, tangles, and dander, this professional grooming tool ensures a healthier, shinier coat for your beloved indoor cat.

It’s the perfect gift for any pet owner seeking effective and gentle pet care.

This versatile cat deshedding brush excels at removing loose hair, knots, and trapped dirt, promoting a healthy coat for short, medium, or long-haired pets. Its innovative design, featuring 150° bent stainless steel needles, penetrates deep to groom the undercoat effectively, while the ABS handle ensures durability for long-term use.

Pros

• Gentle & Effective Grooming: The skin-friendly massage needles with rounded rubber tips gently remove loose fur, dander, and tangles without scratching your pet’s sensitive skin, making it ideal for a deshedding routine.
• Effortless Cleaning: The convenient one-click cleaning button allows for quick and easy removal of collected pet hair from the bristles, saving you time and effort after each brushing session.
• Durable & High-Quality Build: Constructed from robust 304 stainless steel and ABS material, this grooming brush features thicker wire bristles than many alternatives, ensuring it withstands regular use and effectively grooms the undercoat.
• Versatile for All Coats: Suitable for a wide range of pets, including cats and dogs with short, medium, long, thick, or curly fur, this tool is an essential addition to your pet grooming supplies.

Cons

• While designed for various coat types, some users with exceptionally dense or matted fur might find it requires multiple passes to fully detangle.

Elevate your pet’s grooming experience with the Aumuca Cat Brush. Its thoughtful design and high-quality construction provide a comfortable and efficient way to manage shedding and maintain a healthy, lustrous coat for your furry companion.

Experience the difference a premium deshedding tool can make for your pet’s well-being and your home’s cleanliness.

4. Dipoo Self Cleaning Shedding Brush – Skin Friendly Grooming Tool

Tired of battling shedding season? Discover the Dipoo Self-Cleaning Shedding Brush, the ultimate grooming tool designed to make deshedding a breeze.

This innovative brush promises a smoother, cleaner experience for both you and your beloved short-haired feline companion.

Engineered for efficiency, the Dipoo brush features a skin-friendly design with round-headed bristles that gently remove loose fur without irritation. Crafted from premium stainless steel and comfortable rubber, its durable construction ensures longevity. The ergonomic TPR handle and easy-clean press button elevate the grooming process, making it more enjoyable and effective for all coat types, including those needing a specific cat brush for shedding or a general pet grooming brush.

Pros

• Effortless Deshedding for Short Hair: The release bottom mechanism swiftly ejects accumulated loose fur, significantly reducing shedding and keeping your home cleaner. It excels as a dedicated cat brush for shedding and a slicker brush for multi-pet households.
• Gentle on Sensitive Skin: Featuring protective, round-headed bristles, this grooming tool provides a comfortable deshedding experience without scratching or irritating your cat’s delicate skin, making it a superior puppy brush alternative for sensitive cats.
• Durable & Ergonomic Build: Constructed with high-quality stainless steel and rubber, this brush is built to last. The lightweight, comfortable TPR handle and convenient self-cleaning button ensure a pleasant grooming session every time.
• Versatile Application: While perfect as a cat brush for indoor cats, its effectiveness extends to dogs, horses, and other pets with short or long hair, serving as a reliable pet grooming brush for various needs.

Cons

• While effective for most short-haired cats, extremely short or coarse fur might require more frequent passes to achieve optimal results compared to a specialized dematting tool for thick undercoats.

For owners seeking the best cat brush for short hair, the Dipoo Self-Cleaning Shedding Brush offers an exceptional solution. Its advanced deshedding capabilities and skin-friendly design make it an indispensable addition to your pet care routine, ensuring a healthier coat and a more comfortable grooming experience for your furry friend.

5. Cat Hair Brush,Cat Brush for Shedding,Soft Silicone Self Cleaning Brushes

Tired of struggling with shedding cats and bristly brushes? Discover the ultimate grooming solution designed for comfort and efficiency. This innovative cat hair brush makes deshedding a breeze, ensuring a more enjoyable grooming experience for both you and your feline friend.

This innovative cat hair brush makes deshedding a breeze, ensuring a more enjoyable grooming experience for both you and your feline friend. It’s the perfect tool for maintaining a healthy coat.

Crafted with soft tip bristles, this cat grooming tool effectively tackles tangles and mats while providing a gentle massage for your pet. The ergonomic, non-slip silicone gel handle ensures a comfortable grip, making extended grooming sessions fatigue-free. Its durable, pet-safe construction guarantees long-lasting use and optimal coat care.

Its durable, pet-safe construction guarantees long-lasting use and optimal coat care.

Pros

• Gentle & Effective Grooming: Soft tip bristles effectively break up knots and mats in your cat’s coat, promoting a healthier, smoother fur texture with every stroke.
• Comfortable Handling: Features a super soft, anti-skid silicone gel handle that conforms to your hand, preventing discomfort and allowing for extended grooming sessions without strain.
• Effortless Self-Cleaning: A simple push of the release button instantly removes all accumulated cat hair from the bristles, eliminating tedious manual cleaning and making post-grooming cleanup quick and easy.
• Durable & Safe Materials: Constructed from resistant and durable materials, this pet brush is free from toxins and harmful chemicals, ensuring a safe and healthy grooming experience for your beloved cat.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for both short-haired and long-haired cats, this cat deshedding tool addresses shedding concerns for a wide range of feline companions.

Cons

• While effective for most fur types, extremely dense or matted undercoats on very long-haired breeds might require additional specialized tools for initial de-matting.

This YiEFUR cat brush offers a superior grooming experience, transforming the chore of deshedding into a bonding opportunity. Its thoughtful design and user-friendly features make it an indispensable tool for any cat owner seeking to maintain a clean, healthy, and beautiful coat for their furry family member.

6. Depets Self Cleaning Slicker Brush, Dog Cat Bunny Pet Grooming

Transform your pet’s grooming routine with the Depets Self Cleaning Slicker Brush, designed to effortlessly remove loose fur and mats while promoting a healthier coat and a cleaner home. This innovative tool offers a comfortable and efficient solution for busy pet parents seeking a happy, well-groomed companion.

Engineered for effectiveness, this pet grooming brush tackles shedding by gently lifting away undercoat, dander, and dirt, crucial for both your pet’s comfort and home hygiene. The carefully designed stainless steel needles with rounded tips ensure a safe, massage-like experience, stimulating circulation and preventing skin irritation.

Its ergonomic design and one-click cleaning feature make regular grooming a breeze.

Pros

• Effective Shedding Control: Easily detangles and removes loose undercoat and surface hair, significantly reducing shedding around your home. Ideal for breeds prone to matting.
• Gentle on Skin: Features a 60-degree bent stainless steel needle design with protective rubber tips, providing a gentle massage that stimulates blood circulation without scratching or harming your pet’s skin.
• One-Click Cleaning Convenience: The intuitive self-cleaning button allows for instant hair removal from the bristles, making cleanup quick and hassle-free.
• Ergonomic Comfort: Boasts a comfortable, non-slip grip handle that reduces hand fatigue during grooming sessions and also offers a pleasant massaging sensation for the user.
• Versatile for Most Pets: Suitable for the grooming needs of various short-haired and long-haired dogs, cats, and even bunnies, promoting a healthier coat and stronger bond.

Cons

• Not suitable for pets with curly, wire-haired, or hairless coats, limiting its universal application across all fur types.

The Depets Self Cleaning Slicker Brush offers a superior grooming experience for owners of short and long-haired pets, ensuring a cleaner living space and a happier, healthier animal. Enjoy a more enjoyable brushing time and a noticeably softer, shinier coat with this essential pet care tool.

7. Cat brush, Cat Brush for Long or Short Haired Cats,

Transform your cat’s grooming routine with the Garstor Cat Brush, the ultimate tool for managing shedding and maintaining a healthy coat. Expertly designed for both long and short-haired felines, this brush tackles loose fur and stubborn mats with remarkable efficiency, ensuring your beloved pet looks and feels their best.

This professional-grade grooming brush is a game-changer for cat owners, effectively removing excess undercoat and preventing painful matting. Its thoughtful design prioritizes your cat’s comfort, featuring rounded-tip bristles that safeguard their delicate skin from scratches, making every grooming session a positive experience.

Pros

• Universal Coat Compatibility: Specifically engineered to excel with the fur of popular breeds like Ragdolls, Maine Coons, American Shorthairs, Siamese, Persians, and Garfield cats, regardless of their coat length.
• Superior Loose Fur & Mat Removal: Its penetrating, 150° bent needles expertly reach deep into the coat, efficiently clearing away loose fur and meticulously untangling mats, reducing shedding significantly around your home.
• Gentle on Pet Skin: The mental pins are capped with soft, round rubber tips, ensuring a pain-free grooming experience that avoids irritation and discomfort for your cat’s sensitive skin.
• Effortless Cleaning: A convenient one-touch button on the handle ejects the collected fur with ease, allowing for quick and hygienic cleanup after each use.

Cons

• While highly effective, very long or severely matted fur might require multiple passes to fully address.

The Garstor Cat Brush stands out as an essential grooming instrument, offering a comfortable, effective, and easy-to-use solution for managing your cat’s shedding and coat health. Ideal for daily grooming of all cat breeds to maintain a healthy, tangle-free coat with minimal effort.

8. The Buddy System Cat Brush with Boar Bristle and Wooden

Transform your feline’s coat into a luxurious spectacle with The Buddy System Cat Brush, designed to enhance natural shine and create a healthier, happier pet. Experience the gentle effectiveness of natural boar bristles working magic for a truly radiant finish.

Crafted with a beautiful wooden handle and natural boar bristles, this professional-grade grooming tool is perfect for achieving a healthy, shiny coat while minimizing dander. Its thoughtful design stimulates natural oil production, leaving your cat’s fur soft, healthy, and looking its absolute best.

Pros

• Promotes Healthy Shine & Reduces Dander: The natural boar bristles gently massage your cat’s skin, stimulating natural oil production for a lustrous coat and effectively reducing excess shedding and allergens that contribute to dander.
• Professional-Grade Quality: Endorsed by professional groomers, veterinarians, and pet experts, this durable cat grooming brush is built to last, offering a superior grooming experience for your beloved pet.
• Versatile for All Fur Types: Despite being an excellent choice for a short-haired cat brush, it performs wonderfully on both short and long-haired felines, and is also suitable for dogs and other furry companions.
• Comfortable & Safe Design: The ergonomic wooden handle provides a comfortable grip for extended grooming sessions, and the natural bristles are safe for use around your pet’s face and ears when handled gently.

Cons

• Initial Bristle Shedding: Due to the natural boar bristles, some minor shedding may occur during the first few uses. This is a normal characteristic and does not impact the brush’s effectiveness.

For those seeking the best cat brush for short hair or a quality comb for any feline friend, The Buddy System Cat Brush offers a natural, effective solution. Give your pet the gift of a beautifully groomed coat and a healthier feel with this expertly crafted grooming brush.

9. FURminator deShedding Tool For Medium to Large Cats With Short

Tired of excessive cat shedding leaving your home covered in fur? Discover the FURminator deShedding Tool, specifically engineered for short-haired cats weighing over 10 pounds. This innovative grooming solution dramatically reduces shedding, making your life easier and your cat happier.

This essential grooming tool features a robust stainless steel deShedding edge designed to penetrate the topcoat and effectively remove loose undercoat hair without harming your feline’s skin or damaging their healthy fur. Its patented FURejector button ensures effortless hair release, simplifying the entire de-shedding process.

Pros

• Significantly Reduces Loose Hair: The expertly designed stainless steel edge efficiently removes up to 90% of shedding undercoat, keeping your home cleaner and reducing your cat’s hairballs.
• Gentle & Safe for Your Cat: The curved SKINGUARD edge glides smoothly over the skin, preventing irritation and discomfort, while conforming naturally to your pet’s body shape.
• Easy & Comfortable to Use: With its ergonomic handle providing a secure and comfortable grip, grooming sessions become more enjoyable for both you and your feline companion.
• Hygienic Hair Removal: The integrated FURejector button allows for quick and simple disposal of collected fur, making cleanup a breeze after each grooming session.

Cons

• While effective, regular use is recommended for optimal results, and some cats may require a period of adjustment to become accustomed to grooming tools.

The FURminator deShedding Tool for Medium to Large Short-Hair Cats is an investment in a cleaner home and a healthier, more comfortable cat. If you’re seeking a professional-grade cat grooming brush to tackle shedding and improve your pet’s coat health, this is an excellent choice for regular at-home deshedding.

10. Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush for Dogs and Cats –

Discover the ultimate grooming solution for your beloved pets with the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush. Designed for both dogs and cats, this brush effortlessly tackles shedding, tangles, and loose fur, leaving your pet with a healthy, shiny coat and a comfortable grooming experience.

This versatile pet grooming tool is engineered for efficient shedding control, featuring fine bristles that effectively remove dirt and debris while being gentle on sensitive skin. Its innovative self-cleaning mechanism simplifies post-grooming cleanup, making it an indispensable accessory for any pet owner seeking a cleaner, happier companion.

Pros

• Efficient Shedding Removal: Expertly removes loose undercoat, tangles, and matted fur, significantly reducing shedding around your home. Ideal for both short-haired and long-haired breeds.
• One-Click Cleaning: The intelligent retractable bristle design allows for effortless fur removal with a simple push of a button, making cleanup a breeze after each grooming session.
• Gentle & Effective Bristles: Soft, fine angled bristles safely detangle and groom without scratching your pet’s skin, promoting a healthy coat and a pleasant grooming experience.
• Ergonomic Comfort Grip: Designed with a comfortable, non-slip handle to minimize hand fatigue, ensuring strain-free grooming even during extended sessions for all pet owners.

Cons

• While effective on most fur types, very fine or sensitive-skinned pets might require extra gentle handling to avoid irritation.

The Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush stands out as a top choice for pet owners seeking an easier way to manage shedding and maintain their pet’s coat. Its combination of effective grooming, user-friendly cleaning, and comfortable design makes it an excellent investment for keeping your furry friends looking and feeling their best.

Best Cat Brush for Short Hair: Your Guide

Bristle type and effectiveness

The construction of a grooming tool’s bristles is paramount to its efficacy, dictating its ability to address specific coat needs.

Understanding the different bristle types will significantly enhance your ability to manage your feline companion’s fur, ensuring both comfort and cleanliness. The right bristles can transform a chore into a bonding experience, leaving your cat with a healthy, lustrous coat.

For general upkeep and managing minor tangles, a pin brush offers gentle detangling and thorough combing of short fur. When significant shedding or the formation of minor knots is a concern, a slicker brush excels at lifting loose undercoat and breaking apart small mats. For a more spa-like experience that stimulates the skin and loosens embedded hair, rubber or silicone brushes are ideal, acting as excellent shedding control tools through a massaging action.

Finally, to achieve a smooth finish and enhance coat shine after deeper grooming, a traditional bristle brush buffs the fur, distributing natural oils and leaving the coat looking its best.

Ergonomics and user comfort

A comfortable grip is paramount for a pleasant grooming experience for both you and your feline companion.

When you’re tending to shedding seasons or routine upkeep, a brush that is easy to hold and control prevents hand fatigue and makes the entire process more enjoyable. Look for tools with textured, non-slip surfaces, especially on the handle, to ensure a secure hold even if your hands become slightly damp. The weight and balance of the grooming tool are also critical; a light yet sturdy design allows for effortless movement, enabling you to reach all those tricky spots around your cat’s body without feeling cumbersome, ultimately leading to more effective fur removal and a happier pet.

Consider how the brush feels in your hand during prolonged grooming sessions. Excellent maneuverability around your cat’s contours, from their back to under their chin, is essential for thorough de-shedding.

A well-balanced design reduces strain on your wrist and arm, making detangling and smoothing their coat a breeze, rather than a chore.

Ease of cleaning and maintenance

Efficient grooming is only truly efficient if the tools themselves are easy to manage and keep clean.

A tool that requires extensive effort to de-gunk after each use quickly becomes a chore, diminishing its overall value and encouraging skipped grooming sessions for your feline companion. This is particularly true for implements used to collect shedding fur.

Look for designs that feature innovative self-cleaning mechanisms, such as a button that retracts bristles or ejects collected hair with a simple push, drastically reducing detangling time. Smooth bristle surfaces, without intricate nooks and crannies, allow for effortless wiping with a damp cloth or antimicrobial wipe, ensuring hygiene.

Quick Best Cat Brush For Short Hair Buying Checklist

• Bristle Type: Opt for fine-tipped, densely packed bristles that gently detangle and capture loose fur without irritating sensitive skin.
• Handle Ergonomics: Choose a brush with a comfortable, non-slip grip to prevent hand fatigue during grooming sessions, especially for active cats.
• Durability: Look for brushes made from sturdy materials like high-quality plastic or bamboo that can withstand regular use and cleaning.
• Ease of Cleaning: Select a brush with a self-cleaning mechanism or one where fur can be easily removed by hand to save time and effort.
• Beyond Shedding: Consider brushes that also stimulate natural oils in the coat, promoting a healthier, shinier finish.
• Pet-Friendly Design: Ensure the brush has rounded bristle tips or protective caps to avoid scratching your cat’s skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type Of Bristles Are Most Effective For A Short-Haired Cat Brush?

For short-haired cats, brushes with fine, firm bristles are most effective to gently yet thoroughly remove loose fur and debris. Look for brushes with densely packed, short to medium-length bristles that can reach the undercoat without irritating the skin. Bristles made from rubber or silicone can also be excellent for attracting shedding hair and providing a satisfying massage.

How Often Should I Brush My Short-Haired Cat With A Deshedding Tool?

For short-haired cats, brushing with a deshedding tool once or twice a week is generally sufficient to manage shedding. This frequency helps remove loose fur, reduce hairballs, and keep their coat healthy without over-stimulating their skin. Always observe your cat’s reaction and adjust as needed.

Which Cat Brush Designs Are Best For Removing Loose Fur From Short Coats Without Irritating The Skin?

For short coats, opt for brushes with fine, densely packed bristles or short, rounded pins. These designs effectively lift loose fur while gently massaging the skin, preventing irritation. Look for tools with a flexible head that conforms to your cat’s body for a more comfortable grooming experience.

Are There Specific Brushes Recommended For Short-Haired Cats With Sensitive Skin?

For short-haired cats with sensitive skin, opt for brushes with fine, firm bristles like a slicker brush or a bristle brush with short, closely spaced pins. These tools effectively remove loose fur and debris without irritating the skin. Always brush gently in the direction of hair growth, and consider using brushes with rubber tips for a softer touch.

Can A Good Short-Hair Cat Brush Also Help Reduce Shedding Around My Home?

Yes, a good short-hair cat brush can significantly reduce shedding around your home by effectively removing loose fur before it falls on furniture and floors. Look for brushes with fine, closely spaced bristles or rubberized nubs that grip and lift dead hair from your cat’s coat. Regular brushing, even a few times a week, makes a noticeable difference in controlling dander and loose hair.

Final Words

Investing in the right brush for your short-haired feline is a game-changer for both comfort and coat health. These specialized tools efficiently tackle shedding, reduce mats, and promote a healthier, shinier coat with minimal effort.

Consistent grooming not only keeps your cat looking their best but also strengthens your bond. So, embrace the simplicity of a great cat brush and enjoy a cleaner, happier companion.