Chances are that bath time is never going to be your cat’s favorite activity, but you can make it a lot less stressful with these easy tips. I have been using them since 1985, after adopting a traumatized shelter cat that was extremely difficult to bathe, and they really do work. My two current cats don’t mind being bathed either; in fact, it seems to make them feel special!

1. Pick a dry day if possible. Dry air will help the cat dry faster, which means she will be uncomfortable for a shorter period of time. 2. Make sure the cat does not feel “ganged up on”. Only one person should do the bathing, unless the cat is unmanageable, or is a new cat that is not yet predictable. 3. Do not immerse the cat in water. Cats do not like deep or rising water, so choose a bathing set-up that allows the water to run away from the cat. A sink or shower with a sprayer is best, but a bucket of water and a plastic cup to pour water over the cat will also work. It just takes a little longer. Be sure to cover the drain with a cloth that will keep the pads of her paws from slipping through drain holes, but that will allow the water to drain away. Use very warm (not hot) water.

4. Use a gentle, natural bath product that won’t dry the cat’s tender skin. Avoid commercial shampoos that contain harmful chemicals. Before you start with the cat, prepare some sudsy cloths to make the bathing time a little shorter. Allow the cat to put her front feet up on the side of the sink or tub, or even on a bucket that is full of water. This will help her feel more in control. If you get suds too close to her eyes, nose or mouth, wipe them off in a direction away from the face, using a clean dry cloth.

5. Comfort the cat by talking to her and gently massaging her during the bath. She will seem calmer if she is distracted from the water. It is important not to hurt her feelings or make her feel forced into having a bath. If the cat is a “shiver-puss”, keep a warm wet cloth draped over her back as you bathe the other parts. This may also give her a feeling of security.

6. Rinse really well. Rinsing is really important because a cat will vomit if she licks off any kind of suds. You must go back and rinse the cat thoroughly if this ever happens.

7. Squeeze as much water as possible from the cat’s fur, using a small towel. If the cat shivers, wrap her in a towel to help retain her body heat. Do not do this unless the cat shivers, though, as you can cause her to overheat. Blot out as much water as possible, and let the cat lick herself. Shaking off is a good thing, so don’t discourage it. Some cats like to be rubbed with a towel, while others hate it, so let the cat decide.

8. Long before the bath, introduce the cat to a hair dryer to see if you will be able to use it. If it stresses the cat, don’t use it. Just keep the cat in a warm spot away from drafts until she is dry and comfortable again. If you can use a dryer, it should be slightly warm and at a low speed. It would also be helpful if the dryer does not make a lot of noise. Be gentle, and do not overdry. If you do, the cat will start itching and scratching, even if she does not have fleas. By following these suggestions, bathing your cat should soon become much less stressful. With patience and persistence, it may even turn into a pleasant experience for you and your feline friend.