How to Bathe an Unwilling Cat

Cats are intrinsically clean creatures who clean themselves daily, and most seem to think their own personal hygiene is enough. The key to avoid the inevitable battle of wills over bathing your cat is preparation and organization. If you have everything ready before you lift the cat into the tub or sink, your chance of success is much better. To avoid resistance at bathing time, start bathing your cat as a kitten so it's used to the process and it won't be as much of a struggle when she needs a bath as an adult.

Things You'll Need

  • Clippers
  • Rubber mat or towel
  • Cat shampoo
  • Cotton balls
  • Pitcher or spray nozzle
  • Dry towels
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clip the cat's claws before bathing. This minimizes your potential for injury.

    • 2

      Choose a place to bathe the cat. A bathroom tub or sink is best, since the room is enclosed and will keep the cat from escaping. Your kitchen sink is too open and easy for the cat to escape. Place a rubber mat or towel in the sink or tub to give the cat traction. A towel offers the advantage of texture for the cat's claws to grip.

    • 3

      Assemble everything you need to bathe the cat before picking it up. It will be difficult to let go of the cat during a bath to get something you need.

    • 4

      Put about an inch of warm water in the tub. Cats respond better to a bit of standing water than to running water. Put a bit of cat shampoo in an empty bottle and dilute it with warm water. Mix well.

    • 5

      Place cotton balls in the cat's ears. Gently place the cat in the tub. Keep a hand on the back of its neck. Use a pitcher to pour water on the cat's fur, or a small spray nozzle close to the cat's body to wet the cat's fur. Talk to the cat calmly while you do this.

    • 6

      Pour the shampoo and water mixture evenly over the cat's body. Use your free hand to work the soap into a lather, avoiding the cat's face. Use a washcloth to wipe the cat's face and ears.

    • 7

      Rinse the cat thoroughly with fresh water. Use the nozzle if the cat will tolerate it, or add fresh water to the tub and rinse with the pitcher.

    • 8
      Give your cat a warm place to dry after bathing.

      Have a towel ready to wrap around the cat before you lift it out of the tub. Towel dry the cat and let her finish drying in a warm indoor room.