How to Bathe a Maine Coon Cat

The Maine Coon is the largest breed of domestic cat, and their long, thick coats need special attention when grooming. A full-grown male Maine Coon can weigh up to 18 pounds. Their coats require weekly brushing, and can become oily. They are one of the oldest recognized cat breeds in the United States, and the official state cat of Maine. The Maine Coon's large, stocky body, thick, glossy coat, short legs, and heavily furred ears protect it from the harsh cold.

Things You'll Need

  • Brush
  • Nail clippers
  • Degreaser
  • Cat shampoo
  • Cat conditioner
  • Cup
  • Towel
  • Hair dryer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Brush your Maine Coon cat thoroughly before bathing to get as much of the loose hair off as possible. Maine Coons have a lot of long, thick hair, so you may wind up with enough to cover a whole new cat.

    • 2

      Trim the cat's claws, being careful not to cut the sensitive dark part of the nail. This is to keep you from getting scratched in case your Maine Coon tries to escape, which it likely will.

    • 3

      Use a degreaser if your Maine Coon's fur appears oily. Degreasers come in gel, liquid, and wipe forms. You can purchase them online, or from your local pet store. Follow the instructions on the package.

    • 4

      Draw about 2 inches of warm water into a sink or small tub. Gather your bathing supplies so they are within easy reach. You don't want to be looking for something while trying to hold your cat.

    • 5

      Place the cat in the sink or tub and use a cup to pour the water over its back. Be careful to avoid getting water in the cat's eyes or ears. Restrain the cat gently by blocking its path with your hand if it tries to leap away.

    • 6

      Apply the cat shampoo by drawing a line down the cat's spine and working it in with your fingers until it lathers. Make sure to get the cat's belly, bib, and legs. Repeat the process with conditioner or other products.

    • 7

      Rinse the Maine Coon with plenty of fresh water. Make sure you get all the soap out of its fur. Cats groom by licking themselves, so any chemicals left on their fur might be ingested.

    • 8

      Dry the cat by wrapping it with a soft, clean towel. Gently work the towel with your fingers to remove the water from the fur. You can try to blow dry the cat on low or medium heat, but some cats are afraid of the sound of a blow dryer. With these cats, it's best to let them air dry, then brush their fur when it's almost dry.