How to bathe a cat without making a splash

Updated 14/06/2024

Our furry felines are notorious for being good at keeping on top of their personal hygiene, but what happens when they need a helping hand? We’re here to clean up the confusion around how to bathe a cat and ensure both you and your furry feline emerge from that water unscathed. But first, does your purr pal even need a bath?

Do cats need baths? 

Our feline friends take pride in their cleanliness and can usually take care of their own grooming. Frequent and unnecessary bathing can strip your kitty’s coat of essential oils, but there are some situations where a scrub in the tub might be necessary:  

• For hairless breeds.
• Breeds with long hair that struggle to stay clean.
• If they’ve rolled in something they shouldn’t have!
• Cats suffering from a health condition (such as obesity or arthritis) that makes it difficult for them to clean themselves.
• If your cat has got something toxic on their coat like lily pollen, essential oils, or antifreeze 

If you’re considering giving your cat a bath, it’s worth speaking to your vet beforehand. They’ll be able to give you advice on how often to bathe your cat and the cat-safe shampoos that will work best for your furry friend’s condition. 

How to bathe a cat: The prep

Some pet parents take their cats to the groomers for bath time, but of course, you can also do it at home. Before taking the plunge, you’ll need to arm yourself with the right supplies, choose your location, think about the timing, and take a few deep, calming breaths!  

Gather your supplies

Get the following supplies ready before your furry friend gets in the tub.

• Plenty of treats.
• A shampoo specially formulated for cats (not dogs or humans).
• A towel or non-slip mat for your kitty to stand on. 
• A plastic cup. 
• Towels to dry your cat.
  

Optional:

• Cotton balls.
• Cat-safe cleansing wipes.
• Conditioner for cats.
• An extra pair of hands, if possible!
  

Think about location

Decide where you’re going to wash your cat – indoors is best, and pet parents usually opt for the sink in the bathroom or kitchen, or the bathtub.

Timing is everything

As cats aren’t typically huge fans of bath time, it’s important to keep spirits up. Tire them out with an active play session beforehand so they’re less inclined to escape.

Keep calm 

It’s important for both you and your furry feline to stay calm when you’re cleaning them. Cats are good at picking up on how we’re feeling, so create a calming atmosphere by playing some relaxing music or plugging in a pheromone diffuser. 

Pre-bath grooming 

• Trim your cat’s nails to avoid getting scratched. 
• Brush your cat’s coat and remove mats, loose fur, and excess debris. 
• Brush their teeth to help prevent dental disease. 

How to bathe a cat: The main event

Ready to dive in? Here’s the best way to bathe a cat, step by step.  

1. Pop your mat or towel at the bottom of the sink or tub, then fill with three to four inches of lukewarm water. 
2. Prepare your kitty cat for the bath by sprinkling some water droplets on their coat. 
3. Hold your furry feline by the neck and carefully lower them into the water, positioning them with their back to you. This is where having an extra pair of hands comes in handy!
4. Use your cup to wet the area behind your furry friend’s ears and along their back and belly. Avoid getting their actual ears wet – you can use cotton balls to protect their ear canals if you’re worried.
5. Apply your cat-safe shampoo according to the instructions on the bottle (some need to be diluted) and gently massage it in from the neck to the tail. Be careful around the eyes and ears.
6. Use a cup to rinse your cat gently but thoroughly, making sure all the soap has been washed off. 
7. Next, apply your conditioner (if necessary) before rinsing thoroughly once again.
8. If you need to clean your furry feline’s face, do it with a damp cloth and take extra care around the eyes and ears.
9. Once all the soap suds have been washed off, use a towel to dry your cat thoroughly. You could also use a hair dryer, but make sure to put it on the lowest speed and heat.
10. Comb through your kitty cat’s fur after washing them, if necessary.

Tips for bathing a cat 

• Be slow and gentle.  
• Sprinkle some water droplets onto your kitty cat’s coat before putting them in the bath.
• Never submerge their head under water.
• Speak in a soothing voice throughout.
• Reward your furry friend with plenty of treats both during and after washing them.
• Be sure to end on a positive note, with lots of love and affection (if that’s their thing) or playtime and praise.
• Keep bath time as short as it needs to be!

How to wash a cat without water

It’s no secret that cats and water don’t usually mix well. So if you or your cat sitter is wondering how to bathe a cat that hates water, the good news is, there are ways of getting them clean without making a splash.

• Use a damp cloth or cat-safe cleansing wipes to remove allergens, distribute essential oils, and make your furry friend smell a little fresher.
• Dry or waterless cat shampoo can be brushed into your kitty’s coat for a fuss-free “bath”, no water needed.  
• Brushing your cat regularly also helps keep them clean. 

Meet our veterinary expert, Rebecca

This article has been checked by veterinarian Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed MRCVS. Rebecca is a companion animal vet who has always had a passion for writing and client communication. Since her graduation from the Royal Veterinary college in 2009 she has gained a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, in both clinical and managerial roles. She currently works in the South West and deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases. Outside of work and writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her bouncy flat coated retriever George!

Sources:

https://nationalcatgroomers.com/what-is-humane/