Cats don't like getting wet very much, and usually get angry and scratch their heads when bathed. In fact, cats can groom their fur constantly throughout the day and don't need a weekly bath. If your cat's coat seems greasy, discolored or smells bad, it's time for a thorough cleaning. There are steps you can try to avoid cat scratches and help your cat tolerate bathing.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Preparation Stage
Step 1. Start bathing your cat early
Introduce your cat to bathing from an early age to make it easier for them to get used to it.
- You should let your cat get used to being in the tub or sink for a few weeks before being bathed. Put some of his favorite toys in the tub or sink. Also add some treats or catnip and let the cat sit there for 5-10 minutes. This will help the cat to associate the place in a positive way and not be frightened by bath time.
- When the cat is used to it, fill the tub or sink to a depth of 2.5 cm and place some toys in it. Play with the cat around the tub or sink and persuade the cat to sit on the edge and play with toys in the water.
Step 2. Brush the cat's fur well before bathing
do it thoroughly to remove dust, debris and tangles, especially if the cat has long hair. Dry tangles are easier to straighten with a brush and cats are less irritated during bath time. In addition, matted fur can hold soap residue on the cat's skin, causing itching and the appearance of lots of dead skin flakes.
- It's a good idea to trim your cat's nails before bathing so you don't get scratched and they don't get caught in clothes or towels during bath time.
- You can put a cotton swab in the cat's ear to prevent water from getting in, and apply ointment to each cat's eye so it doesn't get irritated by the soap. If your cat won't let you put cotton in their ears, don't force them and make sure they're dry with a cotton swab after bathing.
Step 3. Prepare a special area so that bath time is quick and painless
The best way to get your cat to tolerate a bath is to give it a quick and efficient bath. Gather toiletries before bathing your cat:
- A pair of rubber gloves
- Special shampoo for cats. Don't use regular shampoo because human skin has a different pH than cats and will make the coat dull. If you are unsure about choosing the right shampoo, choose a wheat shampoo because it also acts as a moisturizer.
- Water spray set to mild for rinsing cats.
- Big towel
- cotton ball
- Small cloth
- Don't use the spray if it's loud, as it will distract and annoy the cat. Set the spray to a light flush, and attach it to the tub or sink. If you're using a hairdryer instead of a towel to dry your cat, make sure that the wind heat is set to the lowest setting so you don't burn the cat's skin. Usually cats prefer the rubbing of towels over the noise of the hairdryer.
Step 4. Place a towel at the bottom of the tub or sink
This is done so that your hands are not scratched. Make sure the towel is spread out well so it doesn't slide around when the cat puts its paws in the bath.
You can also place the window screen at a 45-degree angle to provide a grip for the cat
Step 5. Ask someone to help hold the cat during bath time
if possible, include a friend or relative to help bathe your cat. Ask him to gently hold the cat by the nape of the neck when it is about to be bathed. Again, hold it gently so the cat doesn't hurt.
Part 2 of 2: Bathing the Cat
Step 1. Close the bathroom door
Prevent your cat from escaping from the bathroom by closing the door. Fill the sink with warm water to a depth of 5-7.5 cm. Never use hot water, as cat skin burns easily.
Wear leather gloves to protect your hands and keep the bathroom clean
Step 2. Hold your cat by the scruff of the neck
Speak in a soft, soothing tone to your cat when you put it in the tub or sink. Hold it by the scruff to keep the cat still, or ask someone for help. If your cat has front paws, hold the cat with its back to avoid being scratched.
Run your fingers through the cat's fur while wetting the cat's neck and head with water. Do not let water enter the cat's eyes so as not to irritate. Flush the back, paws and tail until the cat's entire body is wet
Step 3. Shampoo the cat's fur
Make sure you clean your back, neck, chest, belly, tail, legs and paws. Wash the coat well to remove any dirt and debris inside.
- Most cats don't like having their face splashed with water. Use a damp washcloth to clean your cat's face and head to prevent your cat from scratching and whining.
- At this point, you can use a cotton swab to clean the inside of your cat's ears if you can.
Step 4. Rinse the cat's fur thoroughly from the soap
You may need to rinse several times until the soap is completely clean. The rest of the soap on the skin will cause irritation, so rinse until no longer visible traces of soap on the fur.
Step 5. Dry the cat with a towel or hairdryer
Most cats like the sensation of rubbing a towel after a bath. Dry the cat's fur from head to tail. Try to absorb as much water in the cat's fur as possible so that the cat doesn't shake its body to get rid of excess water and splash the room with water.
- If you choose to use a hairdryer, do not set it on high heat as it will burn the cat's sensitive skin. Set the hairdryer setting to low heat and sound.
- Reward your cat after bathing with a treat so that the cat remembers bath time as a positive experience.
Step 6. Consider using a professional if your cat doesn't tolerate bath time
If your cat really hates bathing, despite your best efforts to make her comfortable, take her cat to a professional cat groomer. This way, you are free from scratching and glaring at an angry cat.
