Persian Grooming & Bathing Guide
Characterized by their long, flowing coats, openly expressive doll faces, and round, sparkling eyes, it’s no surprise the Persian has remained one of the most beloved and admired cat breeds in the world.
Without question, the Persian’s luxurious coat—soft, abundant, and breathtaking—is what sets them apart. With that beauty, however, comes responsibility. Proper grooming and bathing are essential not only to maintain their stunning appearance, but also to support overall health, comfort, and bonding.
Bath time and grooming are not chores—they are moments of connection. When done correctly, they keep your Persian looking fresh-from-the-groomer while strengthening trust between you and your kitten.
Below is our step-by-step Persian Grooming & Bathing Guide, refined through decades of experience.
Grooming
How Often Should I Groom My Persian?
This is one of the most common questions we receive.
Our answer is simple:
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Daily brushing is ideal
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Monthly grooming is the absolute minimum
The more time you invest in grooming, the healthier and happier your Persian will be.
Persian coats can exceed four inches in length, making them prone to tangles and mats. Without consistent grooming, mats can form quickly and lead to discomfort, skin irritation, or excessive hairballs.
Well-groomed Persians are not only more beautiful—they are more comfortable, confident, and content.
Mats: What to Know
Mats are tightly tangled clumps of fur that sit against the skin, blocking airflow and potentially causing irritation or infection.
Prevention is key, and daily brushing is the best defense. However, if a mat does appear:
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Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb
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Start at the ends of the hair, working slowly toward the skin
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Be gentle and patient
If a mat is too severe to safely detangle, trimming may be necessary. Always use round-tipped scissors, ensure your kitten is calm, and proceed with extreme care to avoid injury. When in doubt, a professional groomer is the safest option.
Nail Trimming
Persian kittens have tiny but very sharp nails. Regular trimming helps prevent scratches and accidental snags in their coat.
Trim confidently but carefully, avoiding the quick. If you’re unsure, a groomer or veterinarian can demonstrate proper technique.
Bathing Your Persian
How Often Should a Persian Be Bathed?
Persians should be bathed as often as needed, depending on coat condition and lifestyle. However, excessive bathing during colder months should be avoided to prevent chills.
Many people believe cats hate water—but this is rarely true for Persians raised correctly.
When you receive your teacup Persian kitten from us, they have already experienced multiple baths and regular grooming sessions. Most Persians tolerate—and often enjoy—bath time. It’s not uncommon to find them lingering near sinks, tubs, or water fountains.
With the right tools and technique, anyone can confidently bathe a Persian.
Preparing for Bath Time
Gather the following supplies before you begin:
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Sink or tub
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Warm, fluffy towel (fresh from the dryer)
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Pet-safe kitten shampoo
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Washcloth
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Alcohol wipes
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Comb or brush
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Air-forced heater or pet dryer
Preparation makes the experience smoother and more relaxing for both you and your kitten.
Washing Process (Step-by-Step)
1. Face Cleaning
Turn on the faucet, ensuring the water is comfortably warm. Using a damp washcloth, gently wipe your kitten’s face—starting at the inner corner of the eye and working outward. Use a clean area of the cloth for each eye.
This helps reduce tear staining and can be done daily.
⚠️ Avoid getting water in the ears.
Because Persians are bred for sweet doll faces, mild eye drainage can be normal. Some kittens need daily wiping, while others rarely require it.
2. Wet the Coat
Gently hold your kitten by the scruff (this is safe and instinctively calming) and place them under running water, avoiding the head. Speak softly and reassuringly throughout the process—your voice matters.
3. Shampoo
Once fully saturated, apply a small amount of pet-safe shampoo (dime to quarter size). Work it thoroughly through the coat.
4. Rinse
Rinse completely. Any soap residue left behind can cause dry or irritated skin.
5. Towel Wrap
Wrap your kitten immediately in a warm towel straight from the dryer, swaddling them like a baby to keep them secure and warm.
Cleaning the Ears
After towel-wrapping, gently place your kitten on a stable surface.
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Fold back the ear gently
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Clean only visible wax using an alcohol wipe
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Never reach deep into the ear canal
Drying Your Kitten
Using an air-forced heater or pet dryer, gently dry your kitten while combing through the coat. This helps speed drying and prevents tangles.
Make sure your kitten is completely dry before finishing to avoid chills.
Finishing Touches
Once dry:
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Comb and brush thoroughly
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Gently address any remaining tangles
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Optional: apply a pet-safe conditioning or grooming spray
Ending with a small treat helps create positive associations with grooming and makes future sessions easier.
If you are uncomfortable bathing or grooming your kitten yourself, we strongly recommend visiting a professional groomer at least once per month.
✨ Well-groomed Persians are happier, healthier, and more confident companions.