Kitten Grooming: Brushing, Baths and Cleaning Eyes and Ears

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Grooming is more than looks. It builds a bond, helps you spot problems early and gets your kitten used to being handled. For most kittens, a soft brush and a damp cloth are all that is needed, with an occasional bath in special cases.

Start with handling

Short, gentle sessions teach your kitten that being touched is pleasant. Touch paws, ears, belly and mouth, and reward with treats. See how to hold and handle a kitten.

Brushing

• Short coats: brush once or twice a week with a soft brush or rubber grooming glove.
• Long coats: brush daily with a wide-toothed comb and slicker brush, to prevent mats.
• Technique: use gentle strokes in the direction of the fur, short sessions, a treat afterward.
• Benefits: less shedding, fewer hairballs, healthy skin and a chance to check for fleas and lumps.

See how to brush a cat, grooming longhaired cats and how to remove mats from cat fur.

When to bathe a kitten

Most healthy kittens need no bath. Consider one if:

• The kitten is very dirty, or has sticky or oily fur.
• It has fleas, as part of treatment advised by a vet. See kitten flea treatment.
• It has been in contact with something harmful. If you suspect a toxin, call a vet first. See cat poisoning: what to do.
• A vet advises medicated baths for skin conditions.
• A hairless or oily-coated breed needs it. See sphynx.

Avoid bathing kittens under eight weeks, unless a vet advises, because they chill easily. Use a damp, warm cloth for tiny kittens instead.

How to bathe a kitten

1. Prepare everything: shampoo made for cats, towels, a cup, a non-slip mat, a sink or tub and a warm room.
2. Trim claws beforehand. See kitten nail trimming.
3. Fill a few inches of lukewarm water, about 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Hold the kitten gently, and wet the body, avoiding the head.
5. Lather shampoo from neck to tail, avoiding eyes, ears and mouth.
6. Rinse thoroughly with a cup, or sprayer on low, until water runs clear.
7. Wrap in a warm towel, and dry gently. Use a hair dryer on low and cool only if the kitten tolerates it.
8. Keep warm until completely dry, away from drafts.
9. Reward with a treat.

See how to bathe a cat.

Face, eyes and ears

• Eyes. Wipe discharge with a damp cotton ball, one per eye, from the inner corner outward. If discharge is heavy or colored, see a vet. See kitten sneezing and eye discharge and how to clean a cat's face and tear stains.
• Ears. Check for dirt, odor or dark debris, which may mean ear mites. Clean with a vet-approved solution only if needed. See how to clean a cat's ears and ear mites in cats.
• Mouth. Look at teeth and gums. See kitten teething.

Spot cleaning

For small messes, use a damp cloth, or pet-safe wipes. Rub gently, then dry. Never use wipes with alcohol, fragrance or essential oils.

What to avoid

• Human shampoo, dog shampoo, or flea products not made for cats.
• Hot water.
• Essential oils. See essential oils and cats.
• Bathing a cold, sick or very young kitten.
• Forcing the kitten.

Making grooming a habit

Keep sessions short, positive and regular. Praise and treats help. Brush after play, when the kitten is relaxed. Over time, most kittens enjoy the attention.

Hairless and long-haired kittens

Some breeds need more grooming. See persian and sphynx. Ask your breeder or vet for a routine.

Warning signs

See a vet for patchy hair loss, red or scaly skin, intense itching, lumps, a bad odor or ear discharge. See ringworm in cats and kitten ringworm.

Drying and warmth

Kittens chill quickly, so drying matters. Pat with a thick towel, then wrap and hold the kitten against your body. If using a dryer, keep it on its lowest, coolest setting, at a distance, and stop if the kitten is frightened. Keep the room warm, and do not allow the kitten outside or into drafts until fully dry.

After the bath

Offer a treat and some play. Check that the kitten is eating, behaving normally and not shivering. If it seems lethargic or cold, warm it gently and call your vet.

When to see a vet

See a vet if your kitten has skin problems or cannot be groomed safely. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.