Everybody knows that most cats don’t like getting wet but sometimes kitty needs a bath… The question is how can you bath your cat without getting torn to shreds?!
This is by no means a definitive guide to bathing your cat, but steps that we have found to work. If you have anything to add or any advice/tips that you know of please let us know in the comments section at the bottom!
Don’t forget the most important step before you get started… Have somebody standing by with a camera ready to post photos of your wet cat on the internet because everybody loves photos of wet cats!!
- Decide whether your cat actually needs a bath? There are other options such as brushing, combing or rubbing down with a damp cloth (You could even try using a clothing lint roller as we have discovered works really well!).
- Prepare yourself! A jumper or long sleeved shirt is vital if you want to protect yourself from scratches and long sleeved gloves are a good idea as well.
- Make sure that you have proper shampoo designed for cats. You can buy this from a vet or pet store. Do not use dog shampoo and never use human shampoo as this can be toxic to cats and dry out its skin.
- If possible, get somebody else to assist you with holding the cat. Be gentle though and make sure that you don’t hurt the cat.
- Fill the tub or sink with a few inches of warm water before bringing your cat to the water as some cats can be frightened by running water.
- Pre-treat any stains such as oil or grease by rubbing a runny, edible oil into it which will help break down to molecules and make the oil easy to remove with shampoo.
- Comb your cat’s fur thoroughly before getting the cat wet. Make sure that knots and tangles are removed. This is especially important for long haired cats.
- Now its time to get wet!
- Talk to your cat in a calm, soothing voice whilst washing.
- Make sure that you have a firm grip on neck or shoulders.
- Put your cat in the water allowing it to stand, if they only want to get 2 feet wet let them stand in the water on their back legs only.
- Wash your cat using a wash cloth but be careful not to get shampoo in eyes, nose, mouth or ears.
- Rinse thoroughly with water until all of the shampoo is completely removed and there is no soap left.
- Dry your cat by blotting with a warm towel and rub gently.
- Give your cat some treats so that they will associate baths with something positive.
And again… Remember to take some photos!!
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