Homemade Dry Shampoo for Cats

Cats are naturally very clean, and they spend many of their waking hours meticulously grooming their coats, but occasionally cats need help with cleaning, especially in areas that aren't completely reachable such as the head and back. Anyone who has ever tried to bathe a cat knows it's a nearly impossible task. Unless a cat has been used to bathing in water from little on, they will fight to escape a bath, and you risk being bitten or mercilessly clawed. You could end up losing an appendage if you try to bathe a cat that isn't accustomed to being bathed, and it isn't worth risking.

Don't risk life and limb by trying to bathe your cat. Instead of attempting to bathe your cat, try the following homemade dry shampoo especially for cats. Your cat might not appreciate homemade dry shampoo, but he won't put up the fight he would if you tried to put him in water. Although this homemade shampoo is brushed out after application, it won't hurt your cat if he happens to clean himself afterwards. This homemade shampoo doesn't contain any soap, chemicals, or any potentially harmful ingredients, and it's completely natural and safe for cats of all ages.

Dry Shampoo Ingredients and Preparation

To make homemade dry shampoo for cats you'll need oatmeal, bran, or cornmeal. You'll also need a baking sheet, a bath towel or hand towel, and a cat brush. Depending on your cat's personality and level of cooperation, you might also need assistance from a friend or family member.

Prepare the dry shampoo for cats by placing the oatmeal, cornmeal, or bran on a baking sheet in a low temperature oven. Bake it just until it becomes comfortably warm to the touch. Begin applying the warm oatmeal, cornmeal, or bran to your cat's coat, and be sure to thoroughly but gently rub it down to the skin. Go over the fur with a bath towel or hand towel to help remove any loose dirt, oil, and grime, and finish by brushing the cat's fur.

Fast Solution for Dirty Spots on Fur

If your cat is continually coming indoors with greasy dirty spots on his head and back, he has probably been lounging beneath parked cars. In addition to keeping homemade dry shampoo on hand, keep baby wipes on hand to clean away dirty spots on fur. Baby wipes are naturally gentle and nontoxic and the soapy ingredients aren't meant to be rinsed away. Baby wipes are generally inexpensive, easy to use and dispose of, and they do a great job of spot cleaning dirty cats.