When Can You Bathe A Cat
Given how sensitive cats are to even small changes in their routine, we need to do all we can to ensure bathing a cat goes smoothly. This means we need to accustom them to the accoutrements of bathing before giving them the bath. If we adopt the cat as a kitten, we should do this from as early as possible. If you want to know when to bathe a kitten for the first time, there is no catch-all answer.
Ideally, kittens should not be separated from their mother before a minimum of 8 weeks of life. When they move into their home with a human family, they will need to have their vaccination and deworming schedules implemented. Ideally, we should wait until they are vaccinated and dewormed, have adapted to their new life and we get to know their personality. This means bathing shouldn’t happen in the first 3-4 months.
Unfortunately, there are exceptions. We may find kittens which have been abandoned, either by their mother or their human guardians. In these cases, they are often dirty or have parasites. During the first few weeks of life a newborn kitten cannot regulate their own temperature. This is difficult for bathing since being wet can make them have issues with cold. Only bathe the kitten if necessary, otherwise clean with wipes.
How To Survive Giving Your Cat A Bath
Article provided by Catster
In the wild, there are many big cats that actually enjoy being in the water. Tigers, leopards and lions all like to soak, most likely because their usual habitat is in a hot environment and it helps cool them off. Domestic cats may have evolved to dislike water because most breeds have coats that absorb rather than deflect moisture. Its harder for them to get dry after theyre soaked.
So, Why Would a Cat Need a Bath?
Thinkstock
In many cases, cats dont need to be washed with water. They groom themselves naturally, so regular brushing is usually enough to keep your pet looking clean and comfortable. However there are occasions when a real bath is necessary. Kitty may have soiled himself in the litter box, for instance. Cats have been known to try to climb up the inside of a chimney.
Preparing Your Cats BathThe best solution is to make sure that you have all the necessary supplies handy, so you can make your cats bath very quick:
- Rubber gloves
- A large pitcher for rinsing or a gentle spray nozzle
- A large towel
- Cotton balls to clean the ears
- A small cloth to clean the face
Its much easier to wash your cat in a kitchen or bathroom sink than bending over a tub. Following is a step-by-step procedure for the quick and painless cat bath:
Read more cat care tips on Catster.com.
The Life Cycle Of A Flea
Fleas have multiple stages they go through to become adults.
Recommended Reading: Are Croton Plants Toxic To Cats
A Washcloth And Warm Water
For cleaning minor stains or getting food out of your cats face fur, dampen a washcloth with warm water and rub in the direction of the fur. Use one finger and mimic the motions of a cat mom licking her babies; chances are your cat will actually enjoy this treatment. A slightly wetter washcloth can help remove poop from your cats bloomers.
Common Feline Diseases Carried By Fleas
As if the itching and stinging weren’t enough, fleas also transmit other conditions which can have a more deleterious effect on your cat’s health.
- Anemia:;Unchecked infestations of fleas can actually cause anemia from blood loss; this can sometimes be fatal, particularly in kittens. Pale gums are a red flag for anemia in kittens, and a sign that immediate veterinarian attention is needed.
- Tapeworms: Fleas also carry a parasite called tapeworm which are commonly found in cat’s that have been exposed to fleas.
- Haemobartonellosis :;Fleas can also be vectors for a blood born parasite called Mycoplasma Haemofelis in cat’s. This bacterium can cause anemia, fever and severe illness. Haemobartonellosis is diagnosed by laboratory tests and treated with antibiotics, and in some severe cases, blood transfusions.;
You May Like: What Are Cat Years Compared To Human Years
How To Clean Your Cat Without Bathing
See files for Cats
If you’ve got a cat you’ll probably know that most felines are pretty much allergic to water, as in they hate baths and everything to do with them. A cat’s curiosity will take it many places and if your pet gets excessively dirty you might wonder if whether or not you should help it to get clean and how to go about it?
In this AnimalWised.com article we’re going to help by resolving your doubts so that you know how to clean a cat without bathing.
Help Your Cat Get Used To Bathing So She Wont Scratch You
- Start young. Obviously if you have an adult cat youll possibly have to overcome more resistance. Take time to train Kitty to tolerate the bathing process if you can. If she rolled in fly-tape like my Mocha, well then you just kind of have to go for it.
- Let him play with dripping water in the sink or tub.
- Drop a motorized fish toy in a shallow tub of water or float some ping pong balls. If the tub doesnt entice, try a heavy, large casserole type dish.
- Let Kitty to play in the dry bathtub. Then add a little bit of water so shes used to the feeling on her paws.
- Wipe her with a wet washcloth to get her used to the feel on water in her coat.
- Dont discipline her with a spray bottle of water. Not only is it ineffective, but she wont see water as a positive experience.
- Churu or similar treats might help a food motivated cat. Put her in a shallow tub and let her lick her treat while you dampen her coat.
Pin it for Later
Cats have a well deserved reputation of being very clean animals. In fact, they are rather vain. Once Kitty gets used to being bathed, she will appreciate being all fresh and clean after a bath. My cats are more playful and social after being groomed. Ive heard the same from many of my clients. They feel good and they know they look good. Make it a positive routine and you too will be able to bathe your cat without getting scratched to pieces.
A Clean Cat is a Happy Cat
You May Like: Cats Benadryl Travel
How To Make Bath Time Less Stressful For Your Cat
The Kitchen Or Bathroom
The kitchen is a good place for bathing a cat, especially if you have a double sink. One half can then be used for soaping and the other half for rinsing off.
Whether you have a single sink or a double one, if you use the kitchen sink it’s a good idea to take a folded towel and lay it on the counter at the edge of the sink, with the open end of the folded towel level with the edge, so that when you’ve finished, your cat can climb up straight up into the towel.
Another idea is to put a large towel at the bottom of the sink to give your cat something to grip onto.
Alternatively, you can use the bathroom shower or bath, where you have the added advantage of a shower head for to rinse with. If you decide on the bathroom, one way is to use the bucket method – use two buckets one for the soapy water, one to rinse.
Whichever room you choose, make sure that all breakable items are moved well out of harm’s way.
Also Check: Why Is My Cat Laying In His Litter Box
What Not To Do When Bathing Your Cat:
- Dont use restraints like Cat bags or grooming tethers. Restraints will make Kitty freak out from the lack of control in an already unfamiliar experience.
- Scruffing.; Scruffing is often recommended as a good way to handle cats because it is similar to how their mothers carry them as kittens. But mother cats dont carry older kittens or cats that way. Scruffing is an aggressive act to cats beyond kittenhood. The only time cats would be handled in that way in nature would be by a predator or during mating. It is not calming. Scruffing is sometimes necessary in an emergency situation; such as if you are handling a feral cat, a cat in pain, or an aggressive cat. There are much better ways to handle your furbaby for routine bathing.
- Yell and scream and freak out. Youll only scare her. Losing control is the worst thing you can do. Kitty depends on you to hold it together.
- Make it a punishment. You want to make bathing and grooming a positive experience.
How Often Should You Bathe A Cat
The National Cat Groomers Institute recommends that most cats be bathed every four to six weeks. How frequently you bathe your cat will depend on their fur-type and lifestyle.
Over-bathing can cause dry skin, leading to itchiness and increased shedding. On the other hand, under-bathing leads to tangles, matting, increased hairballs, and possibly even acne.
Most cats will benefit from bathing about once a month, but certain breeds need less frequent baths. The general rule of thumb is that if your cat is dirty, their hair is matted, or they smell, you should bathe them.
You May Like: Grumpy Cat Type
Giving A Cat A Bath: A How
tags
Cats, especially curious kittens, can get into all sorts of messy and smelly situations as they explore their environment. They also have a well-known aversion to water. While it’s certainly true that cats are excellent groomers, in certain stinky and sticky cases, bathing your cat can become necessary. It’s can also be a great way to give her a healthy coat and healthy skin.
Whether you’re looking to pamper her or clean her up from her latest adventure, be sure to gather these supplies first and learn how to give your cat a bath to prepare for a positive cat bath experience for the both of you.
Using Alternative Methods For Bathing Your Cat
You May Like: Clean Cat Pee Out Of Mattress
Brush Your Cat Regularly
The best way to keep your cat clean outside of bath time? Juma says to brush them regularly. “In general, a healthy adult cat doesn’t require bathing unless he or she has gotten into something that has coated the fur and can’t be easily removed with brushing,” she says. “Cats groom themselves naturally, however their owners should help keep them clean by brushing or combing them regularly.”
Help Calm Them Before The Bath
Sometimes, even if you do your best to remain calm, you just cant get your cat to settle down. Luring them out of hiding with treats is a good way to make cats happy before bathtime. But if you want to provide your cat with extra relaxation, our CBD cat treats, oil, and CBD catnip spray are excellent, soothing options.
CBD is a non-intoxicating natural hemp compound. It has a range of therapeutic properties that relax cats and other animals . In addition to lulling your pet into a peaceful mindset, CBD can help with things like swelling, digestive issues, and appetite concerns!
Our salmon-flavored CBD cat treats are the perfect way to slowly entice your cat into the bath. After the salmon flavor draws them in, the CBD will begin to kick in within 30 minutes an hour. Your cat will begin to relax and slow down, making it much easier to get them into the tub.
If you want to try another option, you can easily mix our CBD oil for cats into your cats regular food or give it to them directly. The oil provides a soothing boost of CBD just like the treats, and you can measure out a smaller or larger dose as you please. The oil also kicks in within about 30 minutes to an hour and can help your cat feel relaxed enough to comply with bathtime.
If you want to learn more about cats and CBD, check out;our blog! You can read all about how CBD is feline-approved and super helpful for stressful tasks like traveling or vet visits.
Don’t Miss: Define Calico Cat
Reasons To Bathe Your Cat
Bathing a cat will make her cleaner
Although your cat generally keeps herself clean, there are occasions when a real bath is needed. For instance, you definitely might want to give your cat a bath if she accidentally steps into dog mess on the sidewalk.
Plus, bathing your cat will make her coat shinier and healthier too!
Bathing a cat will help to stop fleas and skin parasites
A bath can be beneficial for your feline friends skin and coat. Giving her a flea bath is a great way to get rid of flea problems. You can look for flea shampoos that work on both living adult fleas and flea eggs. The flea shampoo that includes conditioner is a great option too as it can soften the fur of your pet. If you are unsure which product to use on your pet, do consult your vet.
For your own good
Bathing a cat will reduce shedding. Fur shedding is a common complaint from cat owners, especially if their cats have long or soft coats. Controlling shedding is also a great way to reduce cat allergy symptoms.
How To Bathe A Cat: 6 Tips For A Safe Scratch
If theres one stereotype about cats that nearly always holds up, its that they DO NOT like water. They dont like being in it, and they definitely dont like being sprayed with it. So how DO you bathe a cat when theyre dirty? This article will offer some helpful tips on bathing skittish felines.
Also Check: What Kind Of Cat Was Grumpy Cat