How to Bathe a Cat (Without Drying Trying)

Cats are marvelous companion animals. They are cute, a little stubborn, and more importantly, they are very, very clean.

As you know, even haired cats know how to take care of their fur. Their tongue is so powerful that bathing your feline friends is, most of the time, unnecessary.

But what if you really need to bathe your cat? What do you do then? Your Pet Your Love will teach you how to bathe a cat in just a few quick steps!

How Often to Bathe a Cat

According to veterinarians and animal experts, cats should be bathed once every 5 to 6 weeks. Nonetheless, this isn’t a standard rule – this frequency can vary depending on your cat’s behavior.

Cats are clean by nature, so only try to wash your cat if they really need it. Although bathing is a common companion animal practice, it is more than clear that your furry ones will not enjoy it whatsoever.

 

How to Bathe a Cat Who Hates Water (Step by Step)

Let’s be honest here – the great majority of cats hate getting wet! Of course there are some felines that enjoy swimming, but this is not the common rule at all.

Thus, if you are about to bathe a cat by yourself, and you don’t have bathing or experience in primary veterinary care and veterinary medicine, then these are the steps you must follow.

 

Step 1: Get a Good Cat Shampoo

First, let’s start with the basics. You will need a good cat shampoo with natural ingredients. If you use human shampoo, there’s a high chance for your cat’s eyes to get hurt, and we don’t want that. 

Besides, if your cat has delicate skin and fur, it will be imperative to use the best cat products around.

 

Step 2: Trim Their Nails

Once again, it is better to be safe than sorry. If you are absolutely sure that your cat hates water, then they will do everything to try to escape from you.

In order to keep the cat calm, trim their nails before starting the bathing process. This will keep you and your cat safe at all times.

Step 3: Brush Your Car Before Starting

A regular brush is required before starting the whole bat process. You can ask a friend to help you out, and make sure to brush your cat well.

Some pet owners use a cat harness to keep their cat still, but it is highly likely that your cat doesn’t feel secure if you do this. Remember that it’s all about establishing trust between your cat and you.

Step 4: Coordinate Shower or Bath Time

You need to carefully time the bathing process. It is not recommended to bathe them after you give them a medicine that they don’t like.

Likewise, make sure that your cat really needs a bath. Otherwise, the experience can become traumatic, which is something that we really don’t want.

 

Step 5: Start the Bathing Process

Lock down the bathroom door, make sure that your cat is comfortable enough, and let’s start with a gentle bath. Use warm water and never cold water, even if the climate is hot.

Pets of all kinds and sizes hate cold water, so it is utterly important that you take this into account before starting.

Pet Tip: Use a pour-over method – never submerge your cat underwater in the sink or bathtub. Pouring water over your cat will ensure that they keep a good body temperature, which will make them feel more comfortable during the process.

 

Step 6: Clean Your Cat Well

It’s time to start with deep cleaning! Gently rub their nose, face, head, body, and paws. While they are inside the tub or sink, make sure that you clean them well in every aspect – you don’t want to start the process all over again, do you?

Use a rubber mat or special cat bath items that can be found in pet stores. Remember that caring for pets is important here, and bathing ensures a lot of good things for your cat, including wellness.

Step 7: Deep Dry with a Soft Towel

Once your cat is already bathed, then it’s time for them to get the wet out of their body. If you don’t want them to get sick, thoroughly dry them using a towel and a hair dryer.

We recommend you use one of those low-noise hair dryers – they will be less traumatic for your pet. Also, use cotton towels if you have the chance. Finish drying your cat and you will be almost good to go.

 

Step 8: Give Your Cat a Treat

Once your cat is clean and pretty, give them a nice treat. If you repeat this all the time you bathe them, they will know that there’s a pleasant surprise at the end of the road.

They must establish a mental connection between bathing and treats, so get good products in the pet store as the good pet owner you are!

 

Step 9: Learn from the Bathing Process

 Last but not least, it’s time to learn from the process. What went well, and what didn’t? Only this will ensure that you will be prepared for future baths.

Remember that there’s a high chance that your cat rejects the activity, so making it as pleasant as possible for them is key here.

  

Pet Recap: How to Properly Bathe a Cat

Fortunately, cats do not need to be bathed that often. They will keep themselves clean, but if there’s a dirty, messing situation going on, then you absolutely need to bathe them.

If you cannot get a pet grooming service, then following this guide will lead you to success! For more cat and pet health care tips, check Your Pet, Your Love.

FAQ

How to Bathe a Scared Car?

It is imperative that you don’t give previous signals to your cat telling them that they will be bathed. Then, provide them with treats, use hot water, calm them during the process, and reward them once all is finished.

Can I Bathe a Cat Without Cat Shampoo?

In theory, you could, but if you want to ensure that their fur has a nice smell, then we highly recommend using specific cat shampoo products.