Tips For Bathing Your Cat

Kitties have some pretty wonderful traits, which have helped make them such beloved pets. One of the perks of having a kitty is that your feline pal will clean her own fur. You don’t have to bathe Fluffy. Of course, you can if you want to. A Cornelius, NC vet offers some advice on bathing cats in this article.

Check With The Vet

Bathing shouldn’t be an issue for most kitties, but there are some exceptions. If your furry buddy has recently been ill or injured, you definitely want to check with Fluffy’s doctor first. This also applies with cats that are very young or old, and those that have allergies and/or skin and fur problems.

Dress Appropriately

Safety first! Wear jeans and long sleeves, in case you get scratched. 

Don’t Overdo It

If you do bathe Fluffy, you’ll need to be careful not to do it too frequently. Overbathing your kitty could strip the oils from her coat, leaving her looking dry and a little frizzy.

Choose The Right Products

Shampoos made for humans are too strong for kitties. Only use things products that were specifically made for our feline friends.

Get The Temp Right

Fluffy’s skin is very sensitive, and can burn at temperatures that seem comfortable to us. The water should be warm, but not hot. It shouldn’t be any deeper than your cute pet’s chest, regardless of whether you’re in a tub or sink.

Start Young

If Fluffy is still a kitten, you have the upper hand on this, and will have an easier time bathing her if she ever gets something on her fur that would necessitate a bath. Start early!

Use Padding

You may want to put a thick mat down in the tub or sink before bathing your feline buddy. This will protect it from scratches.

Don’t Force It

Cats may be small, but they are pretty fierce. If Fluffy really isn’t having it, don’t force her to submit. You’ll just get scratched!

Purr Reactivation

After bathtime is over, give your Fluffy a new toy or a special treat. Then, you get to enjoy cuddles with a clean cat!

Consider A Groomer

Do you want a clean cat without the scratches? Consider taking Fluffy to a groomer!

As your Cornelius, NC animal clinic, we’re dedicated to offering top-notch veterinary care. Please feel free to contact us anytime.