Amelia Taylor – Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
How often should I bathe my cat is a question most cat owners only think about once things get messy. Good news, cats do not need baths nearly as often as dogs do.
Cats Clean Themselves Most of the Time
Cats spend a large part of their day licking themselves clean. Their tongue works like a built in brush, removing loose hair, dirt, and dust from their coat. Because of this, most healthy cats do not need regular baths from you at all.
The General Rule for Bathing
When a bath is needed, most cats do well with one bath every four to six weeks. This is not a strict schedule you must follow. It is simply a safe upper limit so you do not bathe your cat more than needed. Bathing too often can dry out their skin and cause irritation.
When Your Cat Needs a Bath Sooner
A few situations call for a bath outside the usual routine. If your cat gets into something sticky, oily, or smelly, a bath helps more than waiting for them to clean it off themselves. Senior cats and overweight cats often struggle to reach every part of their body, so they may need a helping hand more often. Long haired cats can also benefit from a bath every few weeks to help prevent matting.
Hairless Cats Are the Exception
Breeds like the Sphynx do not have fur to soak up their skin’s natural oils, so those oils build up on the skin instead. Because of this, hairless cats usually need a bath around once a week to stay clean and comfortable.
Signs Your Cat Does Not Need a Bath Yet
If your cat’s coat looks clean, feels soft, and does not smell, there is no need to bathe them just to stick to a schedule. A quick look and sniff test is usually all you need to decide.
Keep Bath Time Calm
If a bath is necessary, keep the water warm, use a cat safe shampoo, and dry your cat fully afterward with a towel. Going slow and staying calm makes the experience easier for both of you, especially if your cat is not used to water.
According to PetMD, most cats are strong self groomers and should not be bathed more often than every four to six weeks. Catster notes that frequent bathing can actually dry out a cat’s skin rather than help it.
If your cat has been scratching or losing more hair than usual, that is worth a closer look too. Our guide on why your cat is pulling her hair out covers the common causes and what you can do about it.
