There are many cats that don't like baths.Bathing a cat that hates water can result in scratches or bites, and a very stressed out cat.To keep bathtime stress-free, it is important to have an extra set of hands and to prepare ahead of time.
Step 1: Your materials should be gathered.
It is important to have everything ready when bathing an upset cat.Leaving the angry cat alone to grab a supply will cause him to run around freely because he will be looking for an opportunity to escape the bath.Before you take your cat to the bath, make sure you have everything ready.These things can be used beside the tub.If you are going to be bathing the cat in the sink or tub, place a rubber bath mat on the floor.This can keep the cat from sliding around.Use only the best for cats.It won't be good for the cat because it's too drying.You can buy cat products from your vet's office or your local pet supply store.The towel should be big and soft.It needs to be big enough to wrap the cat in after its bath.You can warm the towel in the dryer before you start the bath.You can protect your hands from scratches by wearing rubber gloves.Before the bath, get your cat a brush and nail clippers.
Step 2: Cut the cat's nails and clean its fur.
Make sure the cat's nails are trimmed before bathing it.It will help prevent scratches when you bathe the cat.The cat should be given a thorough brushing before bathing.This will help remove tangles in its fur.You can use a brushing session to calm the cat before bathing it.If your cat doesn't like having its nails trimmed, consider having a professional do it for you.
Step 3: Don't chase the cat or scare it.
It is best to bathe your cat when it is calm.If you startle the cat by grabbing at it or chasing it, it will be harder to get through the bath.A soothing brushing session, lots of petting and speaking softly to the cat will make it feel more relaxed before you take it for a bath.If you play with the cat for a while, it will tire it out before the bath.
Step 4: Ask a friend for help.
It is always easier to bathe a difficult cat if you have an extra set of hands.Ask a friend or family member to help bathe the cat.It's important that the person you ask is comfortable with cats.If the cat is familiar with the other person, they won't be stressed out by the presence of a stranger.
Step 5: Warm water is good for you.
The sink or bathtub can be filled with a few inches of water.You don't want the water to be cold, but you do not want it to get too hot.When placing the cat in the water,lukewarm water will be the most comfortable, and won't be too shocking.
Step 6: The cat can be held by its scruff.
When placing the cat in the tub, hold it by the scruff on the back of its neck.To gently hold the cat's back end, ask the friend.If the cat is angry, it's important to keep it still.You want to be gentle so you don't hurt the cat.Don't open the door.If the cat breaks loose from your grip and jumps out of the tub, try to keep it contained in that space.
Step 7: It's a good idea to gently apply the shampooing.
After using a spray nozzle or cup to wet the cat's fur, apply the shampoo.While your friend helps you hold the cat in place, gently massage it into its fur.To keep the cat's fur from getting sudsy, you can add a small amount of the shampoo to the fur.If you want to apply a watered down version to your cat's fur, try using one part cleanser with five parts water.It is a bad idea to give your cat something to drink on its face or ears.Put water away from the cat's face when it is wet.To gently wipe the cat's face clean, use the damp washcloth you have handy.
Step 8: Carefully rinse from head to tail.
When washing your cat's face, keep soap and water away from it.As you rinse, gently push the water out of the cat's fur in the direction of hair growth.It will help eliminate excess water from the cat's fur as you rinse, and ensure you get all the suds out.It is important to rinse out all the soap.Leftover soap can cause your cat to itch and scratch himself.It can make the dirt cling to the cat's fur even after it is dry.
Step 9: The cat is wrapped in a towel.
You can gently remove excess water by running your hand down the cat's fur.You can use your hand to get rid of water.Your friend will help you wrap the cat in a towel.Wrap him tightly.Make sure he can breathe, but not escape.The fur of the cat needs to dry as much as possible.While the cat is wet, try to keep it in a room that is warm, without any cold drafts or breezes from fans or open windows.Keep the blow dryer on its lowest heat setting if you want to use it on the cat.You don't want to burn the cat's skin.
Step 10: Cats are good at cleaning.
Cats are good at keeping themselves clean.If they have a condition that requires you to bathe them more often, then you should only bathe if they get particularly dirty.If your cat needs to be bathed frequently, your vet will tell you.
Step 11: The cat has to be brushed.
You can keep your cat clean without giving it a bath by brushing it regularly.There are knots, mats, and debris in your cat's fur.It can help to improve the health of your cat's skin by stimulating blood circulation and getting rid of dead or loose fur.Be gentle with the brush designed for cats.If you find a mat that can't be brushed out, trim it.Cats can cough up hairballs from self-grooming if they don't have regular brushing to remove dead or excess hair.Monitor your cat's hair and skin for signs of parasites.Talk to your vet if you notice any of these things.
Step 12: To spot clean, use a damp washcloth.
If you notice dirt on your cat's fur, you can use a damp cloth to wipe it away.This will prevent the drama of trying to bathe a cat that doesn't want to be bathed, and it will also help prevent excess skin drying from bathing your cat too often.