Yes, cats do need the occasional bath. You might want to start them out while they are kittens, so that even though they will probably never get to really like a bath, they will at least be trained to tolerate it. Bathing also needs to be done in a positive atmosphere, and should your cat wish to escape, just let him. Make it as painless as possible so that he does not learn to view bath time as something to be avoided at all costs. For the more mature Maine Coons, you might want to finish trimming their claws before bathing them.
Remember that the Maine Coon’s abundant fur is designed to keep them warm during winter and the rainy season, so it will not get wet easily. You might want to use water in a sufficient-sized tub, or in the kitchen sink, depending on your cat’s size. Keep this at a nice temperature, and just put your cat in and get him wet. Use quality cat shampoo and start rubbing it in. Add water as needed to really get the fur wet. Try to make the shampooing as quick, efficient, and as painless as possible.
Rinse well, and be sure to get all the soap off, because he’ll be washing himself afterwards, and you don’t want him ingesting any soap that you might not have rinsed off. Use towels to dry him off, and he’s good to go. Using a dryer is probably not a good idea since this might scare him. You might want to pick a warm or hot day to give him a bath so that he can dry himself off in the sun.
Needless to say, each cat is different and unique, and you will probably need to adjust your methods depending on his preferences. It is always a good idea to start the habit of bathing and grooming when he is still a kitten though, keeping to it regularly and consistently so that it becomes a habit that stays with him throughout his life.
Author and long-time animal lover. Sharing knowledge on pet care through experience and the written word. 