Any organism that can so expertly mimic the movement of water one would expect would not have such a deep-seated aversion and dread of it. The majority of domestic cats do not like getting wet, it is a fact. Some people even raise their noses when they consider stepping on a wet floor. Do cats require bathing, and if so, how do you do it? Let’s go over how to bathe a cat.
Why Do The Majority Of Domestic Cats Hate Water?
Let’s examine why our domestic cats detest water before discussing how to bathe a cat. There are numerous large cat species in the wild that truly like the water. Tigers and jaguars enjoy bathing in water, maybe because their natural habitat is hot and it keeps them cool. Tigers have been seen catching fish and are known to swim in deep water.
Due to the majority of breeds’ coats absorbing moisture rather than reflecting it, domestic cats may have evolved to loathe water. Once they’ve been drenched, it’s more difficult for them to dry.
Do Cats Need Baths?
The next question that comes up when wondering how to give a cat a bath — do cats actually even need baths in the first place? In most cases, a cat would not need to be washed with water. Cats groom themselves naturally, so regular brushing is usually enough to keep your pet looking clean and comfortable.
Related: Should You Clean Your Cat’s Paws?
However, there are occasions when knowing how to give a cat a bath is necessary. They may have soiled themselves in the litter box. Cats have been known to try to climb up the inside of a chimney. Perhaps you’ve just adopted a new cat and she’s home from the animal shelter for the first time. Sometimes you will need to know how to give a cat a bath if you’re using flea or fungicidal medications. Popular Read: Why Does My Cat Scratch The Sides Of The Litter Box? – Simple Explanation
How to Give a Cat a Bath
The best answer for how to give a cat a bath is to make it quick and efficient. Ensure you have all the necessary supplies handy before you start:
- Rubber gloves (even the most placid feline may scratch during a bath)
- Cat shampoo (various brands available at pet stores or supermarkets)*
- A large pitcher for rinsing or (even better) a gentle spray nozzle
- A large towel
- Cotton balls to clean the ears
- A small cloth to clean the face
*It’s best if you have the time to purchase a shampoo specifically formulated for cats. Virbac is a good brand that many veterinarians recommend, and it comes in medicated, hypoallergenic and antibacterial varieties. If you don’t have any cat shampoo, a mild baby shampoo may be used. You don’t want to use any other kinds of human cleaning products, as it may sting your cat’s eyes or irritate her skin.
Different Steps Of Giving Bath To Cats
It’s much easier to wash your cat in a kitchen or bathroom sink than bending over a bathtub. The following is a step-by-step procedure for how to give a cat a bath.
- Fill the sink with about 2 or 3 inches of lukewarm water.
- Wet the cat from the shoulders to the tail and apply shampoo.
- Just like your own hair, lather and rinse thoroughly.
- Since most cats really hate having water splashed on their face, use a damp washcloth to gently clean your cat’s head.
- Use a cotton ball to clean inside the cat’s ears. Never put any kind of object (not even a Q-Tip) in your cat’s ear.
- After a thorough rinsing, lift your cat onto a large towel and fold it around her.
- Rub as much water from her fur as possible.
- Longhaired cats may require the use of a blow dryer, but only if the noise does not terrify them. Set it on low and see if the cat will tolerate it.
Popular Read: Why Does My Cat Scratch The Sides Of The Litter Box? – Simple Explanation
If you can’t bath your cat, what should you do?
Still baffled on how to give a cat a bath but think your cat could really benefit from a bath? If you absolutely can’t bear the thought of washing your own cat and want to make sure they hold someone else to blame for the experience, you can choose to bring kitty to a groomer or a pet care clinic or store where they provide grooming services. Costs will range from $20-$50 and will include services such as shampoo and blow dry, trimming, ear cleaning and nail clipping. There are even mobile pet grooming vans in large urban areas now that have a complete grooming facility right inside the van. These services cost a bit more, but they come right to your door.