6 practical tips to wash your cat properly
The cat is a feline who likes cleanliness. Usually, the grooms himself with his raspy tongue. However, in certain situations, a bath is necessary. On the other hand, this little ball of fur is not always easy to clean because it does not like water. Here are a few useful tips to make it easier for the owner.
The cat is a feline with a clean nature. In general, it does not need a daily bath, as it cleans itself. This four-legged animal has a raspy tongue made up of fine, pointed papillae. This organ enables it to wash properly every day. If the cat lives in a healthy environment, bathing is not essential.
When to give your cat a bath?
However, there are situations in which bathing your cat is imperative, particularly when he smells bad or when his hair is dirty and his licks are no longer sufficient to make it disappear. Here are some other cases in which a cat must be washed:
After a walk outside, its hair is covered with dust or mud.
When the animal has received irritating or toxic substances on its hair. These products can be detergents, pesticides, or oils.
If the cat is ill, washing is essential, following diarrhea or vomiting for example.
If the cat participates in cat shows and competitions, it is strongly recommended to maintain its hair so that it is well presented.
When the cat is infested with fleas, lice, or ticks, an anti-parasite treatment prescribed by a veterinarian is recommended. Beforehand, a good bath is essential.
Apart from these particular situations, regular bathing is necessary for certain breeds of naked cats, notably the sphynx, or long-haired cats. Indeed, stool remains may become attached to their long coat, in which case they will have to be removed.
What product should I use to shampoo my cat?
There are a variety of cat shampoo choices on the market. If the animal is prone to allergies or dermatitis, its veterinarian can also prescribe a specific shampoo. In any case, it is strongly advised against sharing your shampoo or shower gel with your four-legged companion, as humans do not have the same pH level. A cat's skin will not tolerate the chemicals and perfumes that make up its owner's care products.
What if the cat doesn't like water?
Your cat doesn't like water? No wonder! The majority of these small felines are reticent to humidity, especially if they have not been used to it from an early age. If this is the case, dry shampoo is the first alternative. It is available in either foam or powder form. In both cases, it does not need to be rinsed out. The dry shampoo can also be applied during the winter, after an operation, or following a visit to the clinic.
In some situations, dry shampoo does not solve the problem, as rinsing with water is unavoidable. In this case, the necessary steps must be taken:
To avoid being scratched, it is recommended to wear thick, scratch-resistant clothing.
Legs and feet should be well covered.
Preferably cut the claws of your four-legged friend the day before the bathing day.
Brushing in advance is also necessary. This action allows getting rid of knots in advance.
In the worst case, another person can be asked for assistance. This person will hold the cat while you wash it to get rid of the knots more quickly.
The different stages of washing
Without a good washing technique, even the most docile cat can be difficult to wash. Therefore, preparation is essential to avoid stress and scratches.
Start by talking to the cat. The owner must be calm and attentive to reassure the animal.
Bathing can be done in a classic bathtub, at the bottom of a sink, or in a shower. It may be useful to install a non-slip mat before putting the cat in it.
The person will use a shower head to wet the cat. Alternatively, they can always use a bowl.
Then test the water temperature before applying it to the cat. It should be neither too hot nor too cold.
Pour the water delicately so as not to rush the animal and avoid putting water on its eyes, nose, and ears.
Apply the shampoo and massage gently, taking into account the application time. This time is indicated on the product leaflet or on the prescription prescribed by the veterinarian.
Make sure you don't forget the hard-to-reach parts such as the fingers. Never apply shampoo to the eyes, nose, mouth, and ears. To avoid fights with your little companion, the owner can also clean the head area with wipes.
Rinse each part of the animal's body thoroughly. Do not stop until all the moss disappears. Otherwise, the remains of these care products can cause skin irritations. They can also be licked by the cat when washing.
When the bath is finished, it is advisable to dry your little companion with a towel rather than a hairdryer, especially if it is his first bath. While waiting for it to dry, the ideal is to put the cat in a warm, draught-free room.
Note that the sheathing and knots should be cut before washing.
At what age can a cat be washed?
To avoid any complications, cats should be accustomed to bathing from a very young age. However, his first bath should be done after having lost his kitten's hair. The owner can start by cleaning him or her with a washcloth. Once the animal is no longer afraid of water, a complete bath can be given.
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