Short answer: most cats rarely need a bath. When one is necessary, prepare everything in advance, use warm, not hot, water (test it with your elbow or the inside of your wrist), only a cat shampoo, and work quickly and calmly in a warm room.
Do you really need to bathe the cat?
Cats groom themselves and, with regular brushing, rarely need a bath. Bathing is justified when:
- There's heavy dirt or sticky substances on the coat, especially if they're dangerous when licked
- A long-haired cat's coat is greasy, matted or dirty
- There's a skin condition for which a vet has recommended a shampoo
- The cat is elderly or overweight and struggles to groom itself
Needs also depend on the breed: the Persian is bathed occasionally – when the coat looks greasy or matted; the Maine Coon usually doesn't need regular bathing, while the Sphynx is bathed more regularly, since its skin becomes oily – discuss the right frequency with your vet.
Preparation
Preparation solves most problems:
- Trim the nails before the bath.
- Brush the coat thoroughly before wetting it.
- Put a non-slip mat or towel in the bottom of the sink or bath.
- Have the shampoo, a jug for rinsing, towels and everything else within reach.
- Warm the room and fill the water before bringing the cat in – the sound of running water is frightening.
Step by step
- Place the cat in the sink or bath with a few centimetres of warm water, without submerging it.
- Wet the coat with a jug or a gentle shower, always working from the neck down. Clean the face only with a damp cloth.
- Apply a cat shampoo, diluted according to the label, and massage in the direction of hair growth.
- Rinse very thoroughly. Shampoo residue irritates the skin, and the cat will ingest it while grooming.
- Wrap the cat in a warm towel and pat it dry rather than rubbing. Keep it warm until it's completely dry.
Avoid getting water in the ears, eyes and nose. If the cat becomes very tense, stop and try another day.
If the cat won't tolerate water
There are alternatives: no-rinse shampoos, foam for spot cleaning, and wet wipes for cats. For most house cats, this is more than enough.
Suitable products
Browse cat shampoos, conditioners and masks for cats, and wet wipes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use dog shampoo on a cat?
No. Some dog products – especially flea and tick products, including shampoos and sprays – contain permethrin, which is highly toxic to cats. Certain essential oils, such as tea tree oil, are also dangerous for cats. Use only products labelled as suitable for cats, and if the cat has come into contact with such a product, contact a vet immediately.
How often is a cat bathed?
Most short-haired cats, such as the British Shorthair, don't need regular bathing – only as needed. Long-haired cats – occasionally, when the coat becomes greasy or dirty. The exception is the Sphynx, whose skin needs more regular cleaning.
How do I dry the cat?
With towels, in a warm place, until the coat is completely dry. A dryer is only used if the cat tolerates it, on the lowest heat setting and held at a distance.