Bathing : How To Give Your Cat A Bath ?

Bathing 

It is difficult to lay down specific guidelines on bathing, since this depends on the coat type and the lifestyle and fastidiousness of the individual cat. Some cats, particularly indoor cats, will never need a bath. Overbathing can remove natural oils essential to the coat. Regular brushing will keep the coat sleek and glowing and help eliminate the need for bathing.

However, while most cats keep themselves relatively clean, there are times when any cat might get very dirty or get something on her coat that is not safe for her to groom on her own. When the coat is badly stained, has a strong odor, or appears oily despite a thorough brushing, the only solution is a complete bath. Cats with skin conditions or parasite infestations may need to be bathed with medicated shampoos. And show cats are bathed periodically in preparation for cat shows. If you plan to show your kitten, kittens can be safely bathed after they are 3 months old.

HOW TO GIVE YOUR CAT A BATH  

This can be quite a challenge—particularly if your cat was not bathed as a kitten. Most cats dislike water, so expect to meet some resistance. If possible, have someone hold and soothe the cat while you give the bath. You can also take the cat to a professional groomer. 

Begin by combing the coat to remove all knots and mats. Matted hair tends to “set” when wet and is more difficult to brush. Plug the cat’s ears with cotton balls to keep out water. Use artificial tears ointment in the eyes to prevent soap burn.

The next question is what shampoo to use. Commercial pet shampoos now indicate on the label whether they are for dogs or cats. Always use a shampoo that is made for cats. Many dog shampoos contain ingredients that may be toxic to cats.

Place a bath mat on the bottom of the sink so the cat can have a nonslippery surface to grip. (You can also use a bathtub, but then you must bend over or get on your knees.) Fill the sink with warm water to a depth of 4 inches (10 cm). Holding the cat gently but firmly by the back of the neck, lower her into the sink with her back toward you (so you won’t get clawed). Gently scoop some warm water over the cat’s back using a plastic cup, then lather the coat with shampoo, keeping it out of the cat’s eyes and ears. Rinse well with warm tap water or a spray; never spray water in the cat’s face. Be sure to remove all traces of shampoo, because any soap left behind dulls the coat and irritates the skin. If the coat is especially dirty, you may need to give the cat a second sudsing.

Another method works well if you have a double sink. Fill both sinks to about 4 inches (10 cm) with warm water. Use the first sink for the soaping part of the bath, then transfer the cat to the second sink for rinsing.

pecial rinses are sometimes recommended to bring out qualities of the coat for show purposes. If you plan to use one, use it now—then rinse it out completely. Do not use vinegar, lemon juice, or bleach rinses. They are either too acidic or too basic and will damage the cat’s coat and skin. Do not use any hair colorings or dyes, as these can damage the hair. 

Now dry the coat gently with towels. Do not rub a longhaired cat, as that will mat the hair. Simply wrapping the cat in a towel and holding her for a few minutes will dry the coat quite a bit. The coat will take an hour or two to dry, and the cat should be kept indoors in a warm room until she is completely dry to avoid chilling. If your cat does not object to it, you can use an air comb. Do not use a hair dryer made for humans unless it has a cool air or fan function (the warm or hot air settings will damage your cat’s coat). Even then, many cats will object to the noise. 

Cats with an oily coat are especially prone to collecting dirt. In such cases, you can try “dry cleaning” the coat between baths. A number of products have been used successfully as dry shampoos. Make sure these are labeled as “cat safe.” Calcium carbonate, talcum or baby powder, fuller’s earth, and cornstarch are all effective. They can be used frequently without the danger of removing essential oils or damaging the coat or skin. Work the powder into the coat and leave it for 20 minutes to absorb oils. Then carefully brush or blow the powder out. Do not let your cat groom it off. If you show your cat, all traces of powder must be removed before you enter the judging ring.