3 Techniques for Bathing Your Pet Cat

When your cat is going through flea-infestation, you will most likely want to bathe her. Since your cat will tend to wash herself anyway, you may feel that they won’t need bathing. However, it is always a good idea to give your cat a good washing once in a while for hygiene reasons not just for your cat but for your entire home as well. A bath reduces parasites and will help any allergic person in the house tremendously.

Everybody knows that cats do not like water, much less, taking a bath.  Even all the cartoons say as much.  But you can’t allow your pet kitten to sleep with you and not be clean.  You owe it to yourself to have a clean pet. 

Start Them Young

So, how do you go about this task?  Expert pet owners advise to start your kitty young.  That is, train your little feline to actually like baths.  Yes, you can do it.  It’s just a matter of positive conditioning.  Before you do so though, read up and find out how the experts do so.  There are multiple steps to follow when taking your cat a bath at home. Watch and learn.  Or you can ask your professional groomer how they do and what areas to avoid. 

Enjoy The Routine

For your kitty to enjoy this routine here is what you need to do.  In the sink or in your tub, place a towel or mat underfoot.  This is to make ensure that kitty does not slip.  Run lukewarm water.  Do not use cold water.  First dampen the paws then work your way up.  A small amount of shampoo or soap is all that is needed to create lather.  Make sure that the lather does not touch the eyes, ears, and nose of your pet.  Rinse thoroughly and completely.  Make sure there isn’t any residue left.  Remember, your pet will still clean itself after the bath.  Kitty cat will eat any residue left and that might induce a tummy ache.  Wrap your pet in a towel and dry it off completely with gentle rubbing. 

Gentle Massages Work

You can make this more pleasurable for your pet by simulating a gentle massage on its body.   Keep your kitty away from drafts till you are sure she is dry.  A once-a-month bath is just right as a routine.  If kitty really doesn’t like the bath, you can always finish the session with a treat or two as a reward for behaving.  The earlier you condition your cat, the better for you both.  Remember not to skip the routine.  Just follow through monthly and you’ll both be fine.  

Mark Perry is a dedicated veterinarian for Canada Vet with over 20 years experience. A farm boy born and breed, Dr Perry loves all animals but he has a special place in his heart for working animals, particularly working dogs and horses.