Many big cats, such as jaguars, leopards, lions, and tigers, can occasionally be seen swimming or lounging in the river to cool off. Domestic cats are different, they avoid water wherever possible. A few nips from the tap is enough, and a dry sink is more suitable for a good nap than taking a bath in.
There are many theories about why most cats dislike water. “One thing is they don’t like having their fur weighed down – consider bringing a wet blanket. Some of the others suggest that water interferes with their individual body scent, or maybe it’s because they don’t have control over the situation. Cats are animals that normally take care of their own fur and spend considerable time grooming themself.
So even if the tub is inevitable, staying calm will help both of you. First, be prepared to:
- Choose a time after he eats or performs because he will be gentler.
- If possible, trim the nails earlier than the tub, inserting the ends as well after cutting to make a fool of them.
- Put all your bath ingredients in seamless reach, including treats to compliment a little. Some cat enthusiasts even warm towels in the dryer and use aromatherapy to make the experience more comfortable. Make sure to use a shampoo and rinse cream specially formulated for cats.
- Plan short grooming sessions to make handling the coat easier.
Related – Why Do Cats Hate Water?
Here are additional hints on how to give a cat a scratch-free bath – and more importantly, without unduly stressing your puppy.
- Hire an informational friend to help. Either of you can have a cat even as an alternative to bathing it.
- Limit waterways. The sound actually makes a lot of cats panic, and the last aspect you need is catching a sleek and sharp cat. If you don’t have a light spray, use a shatterproof cup to rinse.
- Fill a sink with a few inches of hot water. Moisten the dirty parts of the cat and then lather it with shampoo. Wash as best as possible the elements you need, then rinse well. Use a washcloth around your face and ears.
- Observe the shampoo with a cream rinse. This is important because you don’t have to peel the herbal oil and dry the skin off. Leave it on for 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- Towel dry as best you can. Then, remove the free hair with a tight toothed comb. Your cat will probably be doing some long-term grooming after bathing, so removing the extra hair allows dropping the hairballs.
- As soon as she’s thoroughly cleaned, wrap her in a towel and give her a little love. Hairdryers can also work to dry the fur as long as it’s not too hot.
Note that some cats have played water. If this is your cat, the bath can be a fun attraction for you and your friends.
If your cat can’t tolerate water under any circumstances, you may want to try dry cat shampoo or any expert treatment recommended by a vet.