how to get oil out of cat fur??

my 4mth old kitten fell into a drum of oil and is soaked in it ive tried to soak it up using old towels tried bathing her but it doesnt seem to be helping any ideas

Asked by Member 1019916 on Jan 19th 2011 in Other Kittens


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Try using Dawn dishwashing liquid. That is what they use for birds caught in oil spills and it should work!

Allie answered on 1/19/11. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer

Sassy (2001-2012)

Allie's right. Dawn and warm water is the way to go. It will take quite a while but you need to get it all off as it'll make him really sick if he tries to clean himself and lick it off.

Sassy (2001-2012) answered on 1/19/11. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


There are a few options you can take...
1. If the fur is truly saturated with the oil, then it may be less traumatic to actually shave the cat.
2. It will also depend on the thickness of the oil... if it is a heavier oil, then first try using a vegetable oil to help break down the intensity of the heavier oil, then wash the cat well in warm soapy water (the least hypoallerginc you can find... this is going to be a battle, so some tricks to help are to hold the cat by the scruff of the neck. They may protest, but that are less likely to wriggle away. Soothe your cat at the same time. It may be wise to pick up a sedative from the vet before hand if you are less experienced with this...
3. If the oil is just on patches, then make a mix of ground oats and corn flour and work it into the fur. Then use a bristle brush to brush it out. Both powders will absorb the oil.
Your cat is going to be upset for a bit, just be really patient, gentle and nurturing, and they will come around again.

Member 1070564 answered on 11/14/11. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer