Pet Information > ASK Experts > Ask the Veterinarian > Cat and skunk encounter

Cat and skunk encounter

18 16:07:40

Question
How can I clean my cat, who has met with a skunk?  The bath didn't seem to be very welcome.

Thanks for your help,

Annie

Answer
Hi Annie!  Unfortunately, a bath is the only way you are going to get this smell out of him.  If you can, have someone gently scruff him and hold his front paws together, as this will help avoid scratches.  
I have the perfect recipe for getting the skunk smell out.
1 cup of Peroxide
1/2 cup of Baking soda
1 tablespoon of Dawn Dish Detergent
Mix these products together and get your cat wet.  Put this miture on like a paste.  Let it sit as long as your cat will allow and then rinse.  After the paste is rinsed off, bath him with a shampoo.  This always seems to get the smell out.  Just be sure NOT TO GET THE MIXTURE IN HIS EYES!  The peroxide could cause major damage, so keep it away from the eyes.  I hope this helps and best of luck!
Hilary