Cathodic electrodeposition coating compositions containing, in addition to conventional self-cross-linking or external cross-linking film-forming binders as well as optionally cross-linking agents, pigments, extenders, additives conventionally used in coating agents and solvents, from 0.1 to 5 wt-%, based on the resin solids content of the coating compositions, of one or more sulphonamides, when coated on a galvanized surface, produce coatings that are substantially free of pinholes.