Shampoo and Style Your Cat

Washing your cat is time-consuming, but if you have a show cat they are essential. If the cat was not introduced to bathing as a kitten, then it may be handy to have two people there to bathe the cat.
 

Make sure the room is warm, free from draughts and escape-proof. A flat based kitchen skin is ideal. Allow plenty of space around the skink, with a good supply of towels, with one on the draining board. Make sure you have everything you need before you start. 

1. Fill the skin with warm water to about 5cm deep. Talk soothingly to the cat at all times. Using a shower attachment, test the water first, then wet the cats fur thoroughly. Apply a little shampoo and work into a lather. Make sure no shampoo gets near the cat’s eyes, nose or mouth.
    
2. Rinse thoroughly and repeat the shampooing process. If you are using conditioner, put a drop on the cats back and work it through the coat with a wide-toothed comb. Rinse thoroughly and then squeeze down the whole body, legs and tail to remove excess moisture.
    
3. Lift the cat from the sink and wrap it immediately in a towel. Rub gently to absorb most of the water. You may need several towels!
    
4. Set the hairdryer to low. Do not direct the airstream too close. Lift and comb the cats fur as you dry (this is easier if the dryer is on a stand) and stop when the fur is still slightly damp and tacky. If your cat objects to a hairdryer, do not persist, but resort to towels, brushes and patience.
    
5. Use the soft-bristled brush against the lie of the coat, lifting and brushing as you go. Separate any knots gently with the fingers. Pay particular attention to the flow of the tail plume. Make sure the cats leg fur is well separated, and that the fur on the underparts, particularly in armpits and groin, does not become curly. On Persian cats, work up the dramatic ruff of fur around the neck.