Top tips to bathing a cat with fewer traumas

Two kittens wrapped in towel after bath

Pet lover who owns a cat would agree with the fact that bathing a cat is a challenge. Cats are clean when compared to dogs; they indulge in self-grooming on most of the occasions. This is why they feel that they can get through long periods without having to take a bath.

Hairless cat breeds are exceptions as they require frequent bath. Other cat breeds rarely need a bath, especially on occasions where they get into a fight or get tagged with tar or any other dirt and debris. When it comes to bathing your cat is always, essential to consider some tips so that you have fewer traumas to deal with.

Be well prepared

Think ahead to make sure that you have everything needed to get the task done efficiently. Foreseeing what you need alleviates the necessity to leave the feline in between to get other things.

Decide on where to bath your cat. While you will be compelled to go with the shower, it is ideal to stick with the sink. Using a hosepipe is hardly recommended. If your cat is a runner, make sure that the windows and doors of the room are closed.

You will also need the following utensils to get the task done effectively:

  • Brush
  • Towel
  • Cat-friendly shampoo
  • Floor mat

Steps to follow

Always have the above-listed items ready prior to putting the cat into the tub

Use a cat-friendly shampoo, if your cat has any skin issues like flea or parasitic infection, it is ideal to resort to a vet recommended shampoo.

Check the water temperature prior to starting the bath. Water should not be too cold or warm.

Be gentle with your cat, ensure that you stroke her on a regular basis and wash away all the shampoo from her coat.

Do not overuse the shampoo or soap solution, doing so might kill the oily secretions within your cats coat surface, which is ideal for a healthy and silky coat.

While bathing your cat, ensure that you do not spray water straight to her face or not to dunk her head under the water.  

As a cat owner, you should know that the earlier you introduce your feline to the concept of bathing, the better she gets accustomed to it.

Domestic cats usually hate water, the reason might be most of the domestic breeds comes with a coat which absorbs water rather than repelling it. This is something that makes them stay wet for long periods, due to the difficulty in getting rid of excess water. This can be one of the major reasons for cats to become totally against the concept of bathing.

If your cat doesn’t heed to any of the above-listed strategies, do not risk getting yourself some serious scratches or other injuries. Instead, consider leaving the task to a professional groomer.

Bathing a cat can be an easier task, if you are an individual who spends some quality time with your feline and know her likes and dislikes.