Is Dish Detergent Bad for a Cat's Fur?

Most cats spend a great deal of time grooming, but on occasion, you may find the need to bathe your cat. Cats tend to be curious and sometimes end up in some smelly places. Since you don't bathe your cat on a regular basis, you may not have a shampoo made for cats. Some products you have on hand can get your cat clean while not harming your beloved pet.

  1. Dish Detergent

    • A mild dish detergent, used occasionally, will not harm your cat. Use only original formulas, as detergents with added chemicals and perfumes may dry your cat's skin. A mild dish detergent not only cleans, but also can break up grease and oil that your cat may have come in contact with on its adventures. If your cat is not accustomed to bathing, place a towel on the bottom of the tub or sink to give it something to claw into during its bath, instead of your flesh.

    Homemade Cat Shampoo

    • When making your own cat shampoo, do not add essential oils. Cats are less able to process essential oils than dogs or other animals, due to the function of their liver. Making a cat shampoo with apple cider vinegar, a mild dish detergent and water may not smell pleasant but is better for your cat. Make the shampoo by mixing one cup of white or apple cider vinegar with one cup of mild dish detergent and four cups of water. Rinse you cat thoroughly after washing. If not necessary, do not blow-dry your cat's fur, as this can cause dry skin, leading to scratching and shedding.

    Dry Shampoo Recipe

    • If a wet bath is out of the question for your cat, try making a safe dry shampoo. Make the dry shampoo by combining baking soda with oats, corn meal or bran, or a combination. Dry ingredients absorb excess oils and dirt, while baking soda absorbs odors. Before applying dry ingredients, brush your cat's fur to remove any loose hair. Apply dry shampoo by rubbing it into your cat's fur. Let it sit for about five minutes and brush your cat again.

    Cat Bathing Tips

    • Do not put soap or water on your cat's head if you can avoid it. If you must wash the head, put cotton balls in your cat's ears and spread petroleum jelly over the eyes. Both precautions keep water and chemicals from harming the sensitive eye and ear areas. You can use a baby wipe to clean your cat's head or to remove the petroleum jelly from eyes after the bath. In most cases, it is best to start with a dry bath. If that doesn't work, you can then move to a wet bath.