Male cat acting strangely after bath

My fiance and I have two cats, Hank and Zoe. They are 2 years old and have been best friends since we brought them home at 8 weeks. The other day, we decided to to give them both their occassional baths. We have bathed them a few times before without incident. However, ever since the latest cleaning, Hank has been hissing at Zoe and won't go near her. He isn't aggressive- he just hisses and runs away. They also share food and water bowls and litter, and he hasn't stopped using any of those. At first we thought he might be sick, but he is playing with us. He is also willing to be within a few feet of her without incident. However, poor Zoe can't seem to figure out what is going on and keeps approaching him.

Is it probable that he picked up her scent while bathing and is reassociating? Or do you think he is simply smelling the shampoo on her? Is this something that should go away fairly soon, or should we actively attempt a reintroduction and/or try to disguise her scent? Or, is it possible he is just mad and doesn't want to take it out on us human folk?

It may be that he cannot smell her scent and thinks she is someone else. If you are looking to cover up the scent you can use vanilla and rub a bit on their chins, base of the tail, and I think behind the ears? I am not an expert on this, many other people know better!

Hi and welcome to TCS.

It's likely thaat the bathing has washed away both cat's natural scent, causing each cat to be unsure of the other. You most likely won't need to do a full re-introduction but here's a trick that works well. Dab some vanilla essence on both cats, under the chin, between the shoulders and at the base of their tail. This way, both cats smell the same and will help them to relax with each other. You can also try brushing both cats with their usual brush which will re-transfer their usual scents onto the cats.

Lol Meagan.

Moving this thread to the behavior forum. I'm sure you'll get more replies there. Welcome to TCS!

Originally posted by Kumbulu
Lol Meagan.

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Thanks for the help and for moving the thread to the proper spot.

I tried the vanilla, but it didn't help. He actually hissed at me today, which was surprising. But it only took about two seconds after hissing at me before he was cuddling up to me again. Our vet said that he is probably still mad and to leave him alone, so we'll just give that a shot. Hopefully he won't be aggressive towards Zoe.

Oops. Quoted the wrong post.

Deanna, I would check him all over for an injury, wound or perhaps a skin condition brought on by the bathing. You can probably do it while cuddling him.

As you say, he may just be very unhappy about his bath.

Originally posted by Kumbulu
Lol Meagan.

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Great minds think alike? Except you knew where to place the vanilla in the third spot, I guess behind the ears is for people? Lol, they say to put perfume behind ears, so why not vanilla? Oh well.