Things You'll Need:
- Grooming supplies
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Step 1
Start with a good brushing, especially if your cat has long hair. Most cats enjoy this activity and it will help to detangle and loosen any debris.
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Step 2
Do yourself a favor and trim the cat's nails before proceeding to the bath. It's even better to do this the day before you plan to bathe the cat, giving her ample opportunity to dull sharp edges of her nails on a scratching board or post.
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Step 3
Clean the cat's ears (outer only) with a cotton ball moistened with a cleaning solution formulated for this purpose. In a pinch, rubbing alcohol will work fine too.
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Step 4
Prepare the bath in a sink or tub, whichever is more accessible for you. Don't use too much soap and make sure it's a mild one, such as a vegetable-based soap. Harsh detergents can strip the natural oils from hair and skin and leave both looking dry. Do not allow soap to get onto the cat's face or in the ears.
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Step 5
Believe it or not, a vinegar rinse is the best thing to bring shine to a cat's coat. Use 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar diluted in a full gallon of warm water. Then rinse the vinegar solution thoroughly with warm water.
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Step 6
Wrap the cat in a thick towel and hold her closely to absorb excess water. You may need to change the towel once or twice.
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Step 7
Follow up with drying the cat with a blow dryer on a low, cool setting.
