Cats and the Dreaded Bath

   "Bath" is a word many cats and cat owners alike begin to fear. Bathing a cat, while usually not necessary, is a task that must be undertaken with a great deal of caution. It is a very stressful experience for a cat and usually for the owner, because the owner must take great care to make sure that the cat doesn't injure herself or escape to spread suds and water all over your home.

   When should you bathe your cat? A bath is necessary when a cat has gotten into some sort of liquid or debris that the cat is not capable of removing themselves. Other people bathe their cats when they have an unpleasant smell or to cut down on dander which can irritate people who have allergies. Cats also can benefit from a bath if they have fleas, because it can drown the population of fleas currently living on your cat. If you should decide that it is time to "take the great plunge" make sure you take the proper precautions when bathing your dirty feline.

  First, you need to acquire a cat shampoo. Shampoos designed for cats help care for their skin and coat, and can kill pests such as fleas, depending on the type of shampoo you choose to purchase. Cat shampoos are often tearless too, meaning that it won't hurt kitty's eyes if she accidentally gets some in her eyes. Human shampoos are not designed for cats and can irritate your cat's skin. Once you select a shampoo, fill up the tub with lukewarm water to a level high enough so it just brushes your cat's belly.  You don't want the water to be too high or your cat may react as if she were drowning once you get her into the tub, which will only increase her distaste for the experience. It is also advisable that you trim your kitty's claws before you bathe her so that she will be less likely to injure you if she scratches. Wearing latex gloves can protect your hands and arms from claws and teeth when you are bathing your cat, so you may do this if you wish.

   I usually have a cup or water pitcher by the tub to help assist in rinsing my cat, so make sure you either have something that can hold water to rinse her, or you can use a shower head as long as it is on a very low setting. You should have some towels laid out on the side of the tub for when you remove her from the water and so you can reach them easily. Cats can chill very easily, so make sure you wrap her up as soon as she gets out. Sometimes I even warm the towels slightly in the dryer so that it can help gently warm the cat up so she is not cold.

  Now it's time to calmly pick up your feline as if nothing were amiss, and bring her into the bathroom. I recommend that you close any doors that will allow her to escape. Take your cat and lower her into the water, taking care to keep her from panicking or injuring herself. Shampoo your kitty thoroughly, use a soft cloth to wipe her face, and then proceed to rinsing her off with clean, warm water. After you are finished rinsing, remove her from the tub and wrap her in a towel. Gently pat her dry and make sure you get most of the water off of her coat before you set her free. Be warned, your kitty will probably be none too pleased at this point and will try to desperately escape. Try to keep things as stress free and gentle as possible. For your viewing pleasure, I have attached a video as an example of how not to bathe a cat, just for reference. Good luck bathing your kitties!