Unfortunately for the most part neither cats nor their owners seem to gain much pleasure from the bathing process. However, with some preparation and care you can make the experience a whole lot easier.
What you need:
- A sink, basin or bath to wash cat in, preferably with a non-slip base or a rubber mat in the bottom.
- A jug for pouring water over the cat.
- A bucket of luke warm water. Cats dislike water that is too hot or too cold.
- Shampoo pre mixed with a little warm water. Be sure to use a gentle shampoo formulated for cats such as Oakwood Puppy and Kitten Shampoo or Oakwood Oatmeal and Aloe Vera. Don’t use human shampoo; it’s unsuitable for cat hair and skin due to the difference in pH levels.
- A helper can be useful, particularly the first time you wash you cat.
What to do:
- Be aware of your actions throughout the process. Have everything ready and handy before you start. Move calmly and slowly. Don’t attempt to submerse the cat in water and don’t turn on taps close to the cat. Block any exits and shut the door to the room you’re in. Groom your cat before washing to remove loose hair and any tangles.
- Stand your cat in the bath or basin, give them time to settle and then gently pour water over them with a jug or cup that you fill from the bucket.
- Wet the cat right through to the skin, except for their face.
- Once the cat is soaked, start applying pre-mixed shampoo and gently massage from the back of the neck, down the body until you’ve made a nice lather.
- Follow the instructions for the shampoo
- Rinse thoroughly using a cup or jug, again working from the neck down.
- Use your hand to slick water away from short haired coats. For long haired coats squeeze excess water from their coat using your hand like a squeegee.
- It’s best not to attempt to wash your cat’s face; simply use a damp sponge or face cloth. Wipe gently around the eyes and ears.
- After the bath, wrap your cat in a towel and take them to a nice warm area to dry off. Use the towel to soak up as much water as possible.
- It is possible use a hair dryer on low heat to dry long haired cats, provided the cat is co-operative. But for the most part, cats other than show cats are likely to be frightened by this process.
- Be patient…some cats are a lot more tolerant than others. Your helper may need to distract the cat; food treats can be useful for this. If your cat is really uncooperative your helper may need to hold them by the scruff so the cat can’t scratch or bite you. And if all else fails, there are plenty of veterinary practices and grooming salons with lots of experience in washing fractious cats that can do the task for you!