Some people think that cats do not need to have baths. While they are generally very clean animals, there are some occasions that warrant the need. For instance, if your cat has gotten into a mess, like oil or paint, and is unable to clean himself. It is also a good idea to give your cat a bath every once in a while to deep clean his fur. This will help him feel better and keep up his cleanliness more easily.
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Bathing your cat is a tricky business. The following are the steps in the process.
- Step 1: Clip your cat’s claws or file them down so they are not so sharp. This will help protect you from scratches during the bath.
- Step 2: Run three or four inches of water in your bath tub. Make sure it is not too hot or too cold.
- Step 3: Make sure you have towels, shampoo, and a cup nearby.
- Step 4: Place your cat gently in the water by holding the back of his neck and supporting the feet.
- Step 5: Talk soothingly to your cat to attempt to calm him down. This works better on some cats than others, and you might end up wrestling with your cat the whole time.
- Step 6: Hold your cat with one hand and use a cup to get him wet. Cats have natural oils that repel water, so this step can take a while.
- Step 7: Massage shampoo into his fir, avoiding the eyes and ears. You should use a shampoo make especially for cats or something very gentle.
- Step 8: Rinse the shampoo out with water thoroughly.
- Step 9: Pat your cat dry with a towel.
- Step 10: Use a blow dryer to avoid a licking frenzy after the bath.
Don’t feel bad about giving your cat a bath. It is what a good pet owner should do. You should reward your cat when you are done with a good rub and some treats.
