We’ve all been taught since we were kids that cats hate water. Whether it was from Saturday morning cartoons or real-life experience playing with felines, it’s become common knowledge to fear the wrath of any cat irritated by wet fur.

Turns out that is not entirely true. There are, in fact, some cats that actually love the water. Most domestic breeds, though, have coats that absorb moisture—resulting in discomfort when they get wet.

Whether your cat got caught up in something messy or is a little older and can’t clean themselves off that well anymore, you’ll eventually have to give your buddy a bath. If your cat loves bath time, consider yourself lucky. For the rest of us, here are some tips on how to make it through the ordeal with all your limbs intact and only the minimal amount of scratches or blood loss.

Preparation Wins Wars

The first key to a successful bath time is making sure you are prepared with everything you need before starting and ensuring everything is on hand before you get your cat wet.

First, rubber gloves will not only help you keep a grip in the soapy water but will also protect your hands and arm from any playful (or panicked) scratches.

Second, make sure you have the appropriate shampoo. Brands specifically made for cats or prescribed by your veterinarian are best.

Third, have some cotton balls ready to clean your cat’s ears. This is a much better alternative to Q-tips since you never want to put objects inside your pet’s ear or ear canal unless specifically directed by your veterinarian (such as with ear infection medicine).

Finally, a small cloth to clean your cat’s face and a large towel to dry them with is good.

Optionally, have a friend nearby to record the experience for YouTube. Who knows, your cat’s bath time antics may make you go viral! The real reason, though, is that having a second pair of hands to help you out is always nice in case things get squirrely.

Let’s get started!

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to get started. If you can, use something smaller and elevated like a kitchen sink instead of the bathtub. This will make it easier on yourself so you don’t have to bend down to reach your cat. Having a smaller space to work with also prevents your cat from being able to run around and escape.

Once you are set up, start by getting their body thoroughly wet with warm water. After they are damp, gently lather in the tear-free shampoo. While you are doing this, be extra careful to avoid splashing their face as this generally irritates them. Use the small cloth to gently wipe at their face instead.

After Fluffy is all soaped up, make sure to rinse them off extremely thoroughly. If there is any soap residue left when you’re done, your cat may lick it off which could be hazardous to their health depending on how much soap they ingest. So, be sure to get every last sud!

Congratulations! The worst part is done. Now, to dry them off as quickly and efficiently as possible, lay out the towel and set your cat on it. Then fold the towel around your cat (not unlike a burrito, or should I say a purrito) and gently rub them as dry as possible. For cats with long hair, you may need to brush out any tangles.

If Fluffy is being extra mellow about the whole ordeal, you may be able to use a hair dryer but, for some cats, the noise will just irritate them after a bath.

Squeaky Clean!

Once the whole ordeal is done, be sure to give your kitty an extra treat and lots of affirmation for bravely surviving the apocalyptic bath! For more tips on caring for your cat, book an appointment with Black River Veterinary Hospital in Chester.

Testimonials

Vet Michelle Hewitt is amazing. You can tell she really cares about your dog and she’s always very thorough, but doesn’t try to force tests and... read more

Daniel M.

Our pet Mel has been attended by Black River Veterinary Hospital since we moved to the USA from Brazil. Dr Suzanne and the entire staff are... read more

Enrico T.

Black River Veterinary Hospital is hands down the best in the state... read more

Frank B.

love Dr tact and all the staff at black river!! they care about... read more

Kiggy D.

Dr. Elliott is amazing! Awesome... read more

Rhonda B.

Daniel M.

Vet Michelle Hewitt is amazing. You can tell she really cares about your dog and she’s always very thorough, but doesn’t try to force tests and extras like some vet offices. She’s awesome but I shouldn’t be up selling her because she’s already busy enough. This just makes it harder to get an appointment lol.

Enrico T.

Our pet Mel has been attended by Black River Veterinary Hospital since we moved to the USA from Brazil. Dr Suzanne and the entire staff are outstanding. The take care with our pet, all guidance and explanation after any appointment and follow up all times exceeds our expectations. We fully trust on the team and they show up as a clear pet centricity mindset to support the owners. Very well done team, we are blessed to have you all at Chester!!!

Frank B.

Black River Veterinary Hospital is hands down the best in the state .

Kiggy D.

love Dr tact and all the staff at black river!! they care about everyone!

Rhonda B.

Dr. Elliott is amazing! Awesome staff!

Our Location

Call Us Text Us
Skip to content