Moet je een kat wassen? Wanneer wel en wanneer niet
Most cats never need a bath. They spend up to a third of their waking hours grooming themselves and do so with exceptional thoroughness. However, there are situations where washing is necessary – and then you want to do it right the first time, without scratches and without trauma. Here's when to do it, and how.
📌 In brief
- A healthy cat with a normal coat generally never needs to be washed.
- Washing IS necessary for dangerous or sticky substances in the coat, severe soiling, or on the advice of your vet.
- Only use shampoo for cats — dog shampoo and human shampoo can be toxic or too aggressive.
- Always brush before washing: wet hair that is already matted will become one hard lump after drying.
- Regular brushing replaces the need for washing in 9 out of 10 cases.
Do cats groom themselves sufficiently?
Yes, for most cats they do. Their rough tongue acts as a comb that removes dirt and dead hair, and the evaporating saliva also helps them cool down. The skin also produces natural oils that keep the coat water-repellent and supple. Washing rinses away these oils, so only do it if absolutely necessary.
Is your cat grooming excessively? This can indicate stress or itching — see why your cat grooms itself constantly.
When should you wash a cat?
If there's something in the coat that your cat shouldn't or can't remove themselves. This table will help you decide quickly.
| Situation | Wash? | Better alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Motor oil, paint, chemicals in the coat | Yes, urgently | Call your vet first |
| Mud or a dirty puddle | Usually not | Let dry and brush out |
| Medical shampoo prescribed | Yes | Follow your vet's schedule |
| Senior or obese cat that can no longer reach itself | Sometimes | Daily brushing, damp cloth |
| Long-haired cat with mats | No, detangle first | Comb out or have groomed |
| Just a "dirty" feeling or smell | No | Brush; if it continues to smell, see the vet |
⚠️ Never use dog shampoo or dog flea treatment
Many dog products contain permethrin. This substance is absolutely toxic to cats and can lead to tremors, seizures, and be life-threatening. If you are unsure about a product? Do not use it and call your vet.
How to wash a cat step by step?
Brief, warm, and prepared. Make sure everything is ready before your cat enters the bathroom, so the entire operation is over in a few minutes.
- Brush the coat completely and trim nails if necessary.
- Place a towel or non-slip mat in the sink or tub so your cat has grip.
- Fill up to 5 to 8 cm with lukewarm water (about 38 °C, body temperature).
- Wet with a cup or showerhead on low pressure, from neck to tail. Never over the head.
- Massage in cat shampoo and rinse very thoroughly — shampoo residue causes itching.
- Clean the face only with a damp, soap-free cloth.
- Pat dry with towels, and only use heat or airflow if your cat tolerates it.
💡 Tip: Do it with two people: one person calmly holds and talks, the other washes. This halves the duration and thus the stress. Never plan it just before a vet visit or a trip.
How to safely dry a cat?
Mainly with towels. Cats cool down quickly, so alternate two to three dry towels and keep the room warm and draft-free. A hairdryer on the hottest setting is not a good idea: too hot for cat skin and usually too loud.
Does your cat tolerate a gentle device? Then build it up calmly with short sessions and rewards, just like you do with brushing. Our step-by-step plan is in how to get your cat used to something new and specifically for grooming in can you also use the FurVac for your cat?
FurVac all-in-1 grooming set
Brushing and combing with suction, so loose hairs disappear immediately. Regular brushing makes washing unnecessary in most cases.
View product →What is the alternative to washing?
Consistent brushing. Two to three times a week for short-haired cats, daily for long-haired cats, keeps the coat clean, reduces hairballs, and allows you to check their skin and joints immediately. How often exactly, you can read in how often you should brush a cat.
For local spots, a slightly damp, unscented cloth works fine. Avoid baby wipes with alcohol or perfume.
Frequently asked questions about washing cats
How often can you wash a cat?
For healthy cats, only a few times a year, and only if necessary. For a medicated shampoo, follow your vet's schedule.
Can I use baby shampoo?
Preferably not. The pH of cat skin differs from that of humans; use shampoo specifically made for cats.
My cat attacks as soon as she sees water. What now?
Do not force it. Opt for dry cleaning with wipes and brushing, or have it done by a professional groomer or your vet.
Do kittens need to be washed?
No, and certainly not in the first few weeks. Kittens cool down extremely quickly. Only in case of soiling that the mother cat cannot handle, and then with lukewarm water and quick drying.
Does washing help against hairballs?
Not really. Brushing does, because you remove loose hair before your cat swallows it. Read how to prevent hairballs in cats.
Discover the SmartGrooming collection →
Written by the SmartPaw editorial team. Facts checked with veterinary and official sources: International Cat Care (coat care and grooming behavior), Cornell Feline Health Center, and the warnings from the International Society of Feline Medicine about permethrin poisoning in cats.
Published on August 19, 2026 · Last updated on August 19, 2026.
This blog is informative and does not replace veterinary advice.
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