In fact, most cat owners find it difficult to bathe their cats. They abhor moisture, but, sometimes bath is inevitable for the health and hygiene of felines. This article teaches you how to bathe your feline pet with minimal stress both for you and your feline.
Why Bathe Your Cat?
Generally, cats are good self-cleaners, but, there are situations where bath is necessary:
- Medical reasons (under the guidance of a vet)
- Chemical exposure
- Excessive dirt or grime
- Flea medications
Also Related: Cat Bathing Made Easy: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preparation:
- The Purr-fect Bathing Experience
- Get Your Gear
Begin by gathering all your equipment before you start:
- Cat-shampoo
- Giant towels
- Non-slip mat
- Pitcher or sprayer for liquids
- Reward your cat with treats
- Prepare a peaceful environment
- Find an uneventful time in which your house is calm
- Lock all doors and windows to be free from drafts
- Fill the tub or sink with several inches of warm (not hot) water
Bath Time
- Gradually Accustom Your Cat
- Let your cat into the bathroom before she needs a bath
- Speak to her in soft tones, give her treats, but ensure that she doesn’t believe that the bathroom is a threat.
- Wetting the Coat
- Carefully place your cat in the water
- With a pitcher or sprayer, wet the coat, not the face
- Bathing
- Use a small amount of cat shampoo
- Massage lightly, nose to tail
- Pay special attention to areas that are usually dirty (paws, underbelly)
Also Related: How to Train Your Cat
- Rinsing
- Rinse all shampoo off the coat
- Make sure there isn’t any residue as this may irritate your cat’s skin
- Drying
- Wrap your cat in a large, absorbent towel
- Pat the cat gently and do not rub as this could knot
- Put your cat in a warm room until it dries completely
After-Bath Care
- Reward treats and praise for good behavior
- Brush the cat’s coat once it’s dry to prevent tangles
- Look for signs of stress or irritation to the skin
Steps to Success
- Get Your Cat Used To Baths When Kittens: It is best if your cat can get accustomed to bathtime from a kitten
- Be Quick: The faster the bath, the less stress for your cat
- Relax: A relaxed owner means a relaxed cat. Your cat will feel your tension and would continue to show stress.
- Reward Positively: Treats and praise are very effective in developing positive association with bath time.
Remember, not all cats need regular baths. So, always visit your veterinarian to identify the best bathing schedule for your feline friend.
In these steps, and through a calm and positive approach, you can let the bath time turn from a frightening activity into bonding with your cat.
