How to Dry Shampoo a Dog or Cat

If your cat is unusually dirty and can't bathe herself, try a dry shampoo treatment.

Some pets, especially cats, just can't handle wet baths. Consider using a dry bath for these furry friends. An effective dry shampoo will remove odor and provide a shiny coat. Some pets even enjoy the process and won't mind the additional grooming.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Make or buy a dry shampoo. Making a shampoo is simple - use pure baking soda or pure corn starch. You may also use flour, oatmeal, or cornmeal. Baking soda offers odor -eliminating benefits. Corn starch promotes a silky coat. There are also many commercially made dry shampoos at your local pet store. See the resource section below for links to popular dry shampoo products.

2. Choose a location. The best location is outdoors. If this is not a possibility, consider the tub or a large cardboard box. Clean up is minimal, but if you are concerned about getting the powder on your floor or furniture, choose the best location for your needs.

3. Put your dog or cat in the bath to minimize clean up. Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images

   Brush your pet well to remove excess dirt and hair. Using a slicker or regular grooming brush, continue to brush until shedding stops. This will remove dead hair from your pet's coat.

4. Sprinkle generous amounts of the dry shampoo directly onto your pet's coat. Rub in the powder throughout the fur and make sure it reaches the skin. If possible, let the shampoo remain on your pet for five minutes to give it time to absorb oils and dirt.

5. Wipe down and brush the powder out. Use a bath towel or microfiber cloth to wipe off excess powder. Brush out your pet's coat. Provide a treat to your pet for enduring the dry shampoo process.

Tips & Warnings

• Dry shampoo your pet once a month to maintain a clean coat.

References

• Easy Homemade Recipes: Dry Shampoo

Resources

• Waterless shampoo for dogs and cats
• Dry shampoo powder for dogs and cats