Yes, You Can Bathe a Cat

• Trim your cat’s nails. You cat is likely to try to claw her way out of the sink or tub, so be sure to cut her nails to remove sharp points that might tear your skin.
• Assemble your tools. Have all the items you’ll need to wash your cat close at hand. These include a cat-safe shampoo (Vetericyn FoamCare® Shampoo is a good choice), a couple of towels, a pitcher or large cup, and a non-slip surface (a tub mat or yoga mat cut in half or quarters can work). If your cat likes treats, have some of those at hand too.
• Find an assistant. Depending on how your cat feels about baths, you may need help. If your cat is the type to bolt when the water goes on, you’ll definitely need help. Try to find someone who is patient, likes cats and doesn’t mind getting wet.

1. Brush your cat thoroughly before the bath.
2. Place the non-slip surface in the tub or sink
3. Fill the tub or sink with three inches of warm water.
4. Ask your assistant to hold your cat while you pour warm water on your cat’s back. Slowly work your way up to the head. Soak the fur thoroughly.
5. Apply the shampoo to your cat’s back. Create a lather and spread it all over your cat’s body, including the top of his head.
6. Pour warm water from the pitcher all over your cat as you rinse the shampoo off. Do this as many times as you need to get all the soap out of his fur.
7. Dry your cat off using towels. Don’t be tempted to use a blow dryer since it will probably scare the heck out of your cat.
8. Let your cat air-dry. Keep the air temperature in the house moderate while they’re drying so they don’t get a chill. If your cat has long hair, comb it out while it’s still damp. (You may need to add conditioner to his coat to keep it from tangling.)
9. Once all the moisture has gone from his coat, brush them out.

Reviewed by Dan Richardson, Veterinarian