How to bathe a cat?

If you are wondering how to bathe a cat, the answer is simpler than you think, and we are going to explain it in detail. As you know, cats are very hygienic animals that can spend more than half of their day grooming. Thanks to their rough tongue full of conical papillae, they can clean and brush their fur, removing both parasites and dirt.

Although most cats do not need to shower or be washed with water, there are some situations where it is advisable to bathe your kitty. If you are wondering how to wash a cat, this article is for you, as we will show you step by step how to do it.

When is it necessary to bathe my cat?

As we have said, cats are naturally extremely hygienic, and if their coat and skin are healthy and look clean, it is not necessary to bathe them. However, there are some exceptional situations where a bath is the best option:

1. Cats that go outside or roam in the fields, getting dirtier than usual. In these cases, our best friend may not be able to clean themselves properly and may need a little help.
2. Cats that get stained or soiled with household products, since these toxic substances can be harmful if ingested.
3. Cats with long or semi-long hair whose coat tangles more easily.
4. Some diseases, such as skin infections, external parasites like fleas or ticks, or certain allergies may make your vet recommend bathing your cat. In these cases, special lotions or shampoos for kitten care are usually required.
5. Senior cats that have increasing difficulty grooming themselves, as a bath can help them stay clean.
6. Adopted street cats that are clearly dirty.

How to bathe a cat that needs it?

The first step in learning how to bathe a cat is knowing the best moment to get your kitty used to this experience. If you foresee or know that your cat needs or will need bathing, the right time to start getting them accustomed to water is when they are still kittens. Between seven and eight weeks old, kittens are in the “socialization stage,” the perfect time to get them used to different situations and types of contact. Once your kitten is accustomed to the experience, another important factor to consider is the frequency of these baths.

If your cat is healthy and visibly clean, bathing once a month or month and a half may be enough. The most important thing is to observe their coat and skin and make sure it looks healthy and clean. It all depends on your cat and their specific needs. Some cats can go five or six months without a bath, and some never experience water at all.

How to bathe a cat for the first time?

Tips and tricks. If you have decided to bathe your kitten, keep in mind that the process of getting used to this experience can cause fear and anxiety. With these tips, we will help you learn how to bathe a cat while reducing stress for your furry best friend as much as possible. It is important to create a pleasant and relaxed environment.

Since they will be very defensive, sudden movements can scare them. That’s why we encourage you to pet your kitten gently and lovingly to calm them. Below are some useful tips on how to bathe a cat:

1. Trim their nails before starting the bath.
2. Use a container adapted to their size and place a mat to prevent slipping and make them feel secure.
3. Let them get used to the sound of the water before wetting them.
4. Use lukewarm water, about 30°C (86°F).
5. First wet the lower part of their body and then gradually move upward, always avoiding contact with ears and eyes.
6. Use shampoos, lotions, and soaps specifically for cats. If you are thinking about bathing your cat, we invite you to check out Onlyfresh’s coat and skin care products for cats. This sulfate-free, vegan range is made entirely with the best minerals from the Dead Sea, always ensuring your kitty stays as clean and shiny as possible.
7. Rinse the coat thoroughly after lathering.
8. Dry with a towel to remove all moisture (a hairdryer can be used if your cat is familiar with the noise and the air is warm).
9. After a bath, a good brushing should follow to give shine and smoothness.
10. It’s a good idea to give them a treat after the bath to help them associate the experience with a positive reward.