Neutron capture γ-ray spectrometry has been applied for the simultaneous determination of Co, Mo, Ni, W and moisture in hydrodesulfurization catalysts. The Co, Mo and water content are determined in a 10 min irradiation using a 500–2500 keV calibration. Ni and W, if present, require, and additional 30 min irradiation, using a 5000–9000 keV calibration. In both cases TiO2 is used as internal standard. Results are in good agreement with those obtained by NAA for metals and by TGA for moisture.