Bathing your cat is probably not on your list of favourite activities—and it’s safe to say your feline friend isn’t thrilled about it either! Still, sometimes a bath is necessary to keep your kitty clean and healthy.
Learning how to bathe a cat can feel daunting, but it’s an essential skill for cat owners.
Start by picking a quiet time when your cat is calm, then slowly introduce them to water to help ease their nerves.
Always use warm water that isn’t too hot or cold, and a shampoo made just for cats. Keep the bath short, gentle, and reassuring so your pet feels secure. And ask a trusted, cat-friendly helper to assist you in making the process smoother.
Do Cats Need Baths?
When you do need to give your cat a bath, it’s important to know how to bathe a cat properly to avoid any stress for both you and your pet.
The good news for cat parents is that most felines don’t need regular baths, explains Tarina L. In Aurora, Colorado, Anthony is a veterinary specialist in cats and serves as medical director at the Aurora Cat Hospital and Hotel. “A common question I hear from new cat owners is how often they should bathe their pet,” she says. The truth is, cats are naturally very clean animals and do an excellent job grooming themselves.
A cat’s tongue has little hook-shaped parts called papillae that help spread saliva on its fur. This works like a built-in spa treatment, distributing genuine oils that keep skin and coat fit. These same barbs also act as mini detanglers, which is why cats often lick and nibble at knots until their fur is smooth again.
On average, cats devote about a third of their day to self-grooming (when they’re not napping, of course!). Dr. Anthony points out that brushing and combing your cat regularly is far more important than bathing. Grooming not only keeps their coat tidy but can also uncover hidden health concerns. “Changes in the skin or coat often signal underlying metabolic or digestive issues, so if you notice differences in your cat’s fur, it’s best to check in with your veterinarian,” she advises.
Regular grooming also minimises shedding and hairballs. Use a metal comb to gently work through mats, especially on the belly and legs, then follow up with a rubber or bristle brush to remove dirt and loose hair. Short-haired cats usually only need weekly brushing, while long-haired cats benefit from daily grooming sessions.
How Often Do Cats Need Baths?
While most cats rarely need a bath, there are situations when bathing becomes necessary. According to Dr. Tarina L. Anthony, if your cat comes into contact with something dangerous—like paint, gasoline, antifreeze, or motor oil—it’s important to wash it off right away to prevent them from ingesting harmful substances while grooming.
Bathing may also play a role in managing certain health issues. For example, some cats develop skin conditions such as seborrhea, which leads to itchy, red, flaky skin. In these cases, or when dealing with issues like ringworm or flea allergies, your veterinarian might prescribe medicated baths as part of treatment.
Senior cats with arthritis, as well as overweight cats, may also need more assistance staying clean since grooming themselves thoroughly can be difficult. Though cats generally dislike water, they’re even less comfortable being dirty or smelling unpleasant.
Long-haired breeds—such as Persians, Maine Coons, and Himalayans—can benefit from a bath every couple of months to reduce tangles and mats. Even some short-haired cats with especially thick coats may need the occasional rinse.
On the other hand, hairless breeds like the Sphynx require more frequent bathing. Without fur, they build up an oily residue that can rub off on furniture and fabrics. If you prefer to avoid weekly baths, Dr. Anthony suggests using pet-safe grooming wipes or unscented baby wipes to keep their skin clean between washes.
Every cat is different, so the best way to decide on a bathing schedule is to consult your veterinarian about your pet’s specific needs.
How to Bathe a Cat That Hates Water
Unlike their wild relatives—such as tigers, leopards, or jaguars—that often enjoy cooling off in rivers or ponds, most house cats would rather keep their paws dry. They may happily sip from a dripping faucet or curl up in a sink for a nap, but stepping into a bath is rarely their idea of fun.
Dr. Tarina L. Anthony explains that there are several theories behind this dislike. “Some cats don’t like the heavy feeling of wet fur, which can be compared to wearing a soaked blanket. Others dislike how water alters their natural scent,” she says. “It might also come down to control—cats like to feel in charge, and a bath takes that away.”
If you do need to bathe your cat, keeping the process calm will make things easier for both of you. A few ways to prepare include:
Pick a moment when your cat is calm—ideally after she’s had a meal or some playtime, since she’ll be more relaxed.
- If you can, trim her nails before the bath and lightly file the edges to avoid sharp edges.
- Arrange everything you’ll need within arm’s reach, such as a cat-safe shampoo, conditioner, and some treats for rewarding her afterwards. Many pet parents like to warm a towel in the dryer or use gentle calming scents to help the process feel less stressful.
- Keep the bath session brief, which will make managing her coat much easier and reduce tension for both of you.
Helpful Tips
Anthony also shares some practical advice for making cat baths less stressful—for both you and your feline.
Ask a helper to assist.
Having one person gently hold the cat while the other washes makes the process smoother.
Limit the noise of running water.
Many cats become anxious from the sound alone. If you don’t have a soft sprayer, use a sturdy plastic cup to pour water for rinsing.
Use only a little warm water.
Place a few inches in the sink or tub, wet the soiled areas, and then apply shampoo. Rinse carefully, and clean the face and ears with a damp washcloth instead of pouring water directly.
Apply a conditioner after shampooing.
A feline-safe creme rinse helps keep skin from drying out by preserving natural oils. Leave it on briefly before rinsing well.
Dry and groom thoroughly.
Pat with a towel to absorb as much water as possible, then comb through the coat with a fine-toothed comb to remove extra hair. Since cats usually groom heavily after a bath, this helps reduce hairballs.
Explore alternatives if needed.
If your cat refuses to tolerate water, try using waterless cat shampoos or seek help from a vet-recommended professional groomer.
FAQs
Do cats need baths?
Most cats don’t need regular baths because they groom themselves daily with their tongue, which acts like a natural brush. However, a bath may be necessary if your cat gets into something sticky, oily, toxic, or has a skin infection that needs an anaesthetised bath.
How often should I bathe my cat?
Most cats rarely need bathing—usually only a few times in their lifetime. Long-haired breeds, senior cats, or hairless breeds like the Sphynx may require more frequent baths. Always check with your vet for your cat’s specific needs.
What’s the best way to bathe a kitten?
Use warm (not hot) water, a kitten-safe shampoo, and keep the bath short and gentle. Place only a few inches of water in the sink or tub, wash carefully, and rinse thoroughly. Utilise a soft towel to dry the kitten and keep it warm.
How can I calm my cat before a bath?
Bathe your cat when it’s relaxed—after a meal or play session. Trim its nails beforehand, use calming scents or a warm towel, and keep all supplies within reach. Speak softly, keep the bath short, and reward yourself with treats after.
