Cats don't usually need a bath - nor do they usually want one! But on the rare occasion your cat gets very dirty or gets too close to something it shouldn't (such as toxic sprays or oils), there are ways to make the experience more comfortable for both of you.

• Buy a specialist cat or kitten shampoo, ensuring it is a mild all-rounder with no harsh chemicals or perfumes. Never use human shampoo, which is unsuitable for cat hair and skin due to the difference in pH levels.
• Use a large plastic bucket or a bath lined with a non-slip floor mat. Fill the tub with just enough warm (not hot) water to wash your cat.
• If cats find bathing frightening, they may hiss or bite. Be careful with cat bites as they are notorious for causing infections, so seek medical advice if you are bitten.
• Offer plenty of praise and reassurance throughout. Food treats make a useful distraction.
• Apply a small amount of shampoo, making sure none gets in your cat's ears or eyes. Then lather up, right down to the tail, not forgetting the underside and neck. You may find it helps to take your cat out the water and onto a towel while you do this.
• Rinse thoroughly with a shower nozzle or jug of warm, clean water, avoiding the eyes and inner ears. Use your hands to help the soap run off.
• After soaping and rinsing, your cat will want to vigorously shake off the excess water.
• Then rub your cat from head to toe with a towel and remove from the tub.
• If you have more than one cat, this may be a time when inter-cat conflict breaks out. Separate your bathed cats until they are calm, then rub all cats with the same towel to distribute the scents.
• Dry your cat or cats in a warm room and don't let them go outside until they are completely dry.