Elevent Important Tips on Bathing Your Cat

Source: © Shutterstock

While pictures of cats in baths are always fun to look at, they’re not always having that great a time! In fact bathing your cat can be a real challenge. At times it’s like going into battle. You really have to be prepared before and during your cat’s bath. Which is why we’ve gathered up cat tips from multiple sources to put together this great piece for you. Here are eleven important tips on bathing your cat (with pictures too obviously!)

Before you Bathe your Cat

cat-bathing Source: © Shutterstock

Many cats might be afraid of the water. In fact, most are so you need to think about that ahead of time. What if you cat reacts violently before taking a bath? If you’re worried about this situation then consult your vet who should have some recommendations.

2. Grooming your cat before a bat is crucial.

cat-grooming Source: © Shutterstock

Do as much as you can. If there’s any loose fur, remove it. If the nails are too long, clip them. You want your cat to be at ease in the water as well as avoiding any potential messes afterwards.

3. Location location location.

BlogImg1_1308025948 Source: © Shutterstock

We recommend using a bathtub or sink equipped with a handheld spray nozzle to assist in the washing and rinsing of your cat.

4. Line up the proper tools and equipment. Have these tools handy….

362217-3703-50 Source: © Shutterstock

Shampoo that is appropriate for your cat’s age and coat. Check online or at your local pet retailer for a formula that suits your grooming needs.
Any medicines that you are applying to the cat.
A washcloth for cleaning your cat’s face and head.
A soft towel to dry your cat.
Clothing that protects your arms from scratches/biting.

5. An Extra hand

How to Bathe your Cat, Healthy ways, cats, cat, pets, pet, Source: © Shutterstock

Sometimes one person isn’t enough when dealing with four paws if you can use a friend to help you restrain your kitty when it gets too difficult. Once you’ve gathered your materials and located a willing helper, it’s time to bathe this kitty.

1. Prepare the water.

catwater Source: © Shutterstock

Before picking up the cat, make sure you have the lukewarm water running. If you don’t have access to a spray nozzle, fill your sink or tub with 3 to 5 inches of lukewarm water. Test the water with your hand to ensure that it’s not too hot or cold.

2. Put your cat in the tub.

cat-in-bathtub-ii Source: © Shutterstock

Gently but surely wet his or her fur using either with spray nozzle or your washcloth. Be careful to avoid splashing water in your cat’s eyes, ears, or nose.

3. Massage the shampoo into your cat’s fur.

Can-I-Use-Dog-Shampoo-on-My-Cat-425mk100411 Source: © Shutterstock

Follow the directions listed on the label for application of the soap or medicine. Once again, carefully avoid your cat’s eyes, ears, and nose. Use your washcloth to gently wash your cat’s face and head.

4. Rinse the shampoo out of your kitty’s fur.

This is the step in which a spray nozzle brings a clear advantage as you can easily move it around the cat’s body. If you’re not using a spray nozzle, use your wet washcloth to rinse the fur, refilling the sink or tub with lukewarm water until you’ve washed all of the shampoo from your cat’s coat.

5. Check for any soapy spots you may have missed.

Shampoo left in the fur may cause skin irritation, or your cat may get from licking the shampoo off. Do a careful check under your cat’s chin, it’s feet, under its abdomen, etc.

6. Dry your cat.

Use your soft towel to dry his or her fur. If your cat will tolerate it, a hairdryer on a low-heat setting can speed the process. And then consider giving your pet as well as yourself a treat. You both deserve it. We’d like to thank Vetstreet, the ASPCA and Wikihow for this amazing advice.

You can also read:

image sources