Why should I bathe my cat? Pets Care
Many owners think that their cats do not need help, because they spend a lot of time taking care of themselves, but it is not true. Although cats brush dead hair themselves, massage the roots of their fur, and spread their body oils more evenly (all using their rough tongue), the problem is that dirt and dander won’t either side, which causes a cat to not be totally clean.
On the other hand, people often think that cats hate water and that is why they cannot bathe. If you get them used to it from a young age, baths will not be stressful for them and will just become a normal part of their life.
Frequency of baths in cats
Pets Care. How often you bathe a cat depends on its age, comfort levels, and its needs:
- Kittens need to bathe more often than adult cats because they accumulate dirt so quickly and they still can’t use their tongue.
- From the year on, you can bathe your cat every three to four months.
- Long-haired, medium-haired, and outdoor cats require more attention than short-haired and domestic cats, who may need a bath less often.
- Cats that cannot or do not care for themselves require baths, so their fur does not become greasy or sticky.
How to know if it is time for a bath?
If your cat’s fur is discolored, greasy, or smells bad despite careful brushing, it’s time for a bath. When they are older or overweight, they will also need more regular baths than normal, as their coats become a bit more oily, which is a natural process. In the case of overweight cats, they cannot reach every part of their body during self-care, which means they will need help with a bath.
Read about different Pets
The same is true when your cat is sick. A weak cat may not clean itself as thoroughly as it usually does. If your cat has tangles, speckles, or other coat problems, you may be tempted to cut them off, but don’t. Bathing is a better temporary solution and will keep their coat healthy and clean.
All problems such as skin irritation, ticks, or fleas, may require more regular and medicated baths. Always consult with your veterinarian to resolve these complications; medicated baths are only done on recommendation.
What will you need.
For routine cleaning, you only need a few supplies, including:
- A cat shampoo.
- Various towels.
- A rubber mats.
- Ping pong ball or other floating distraction
- Wet wipes for pets
Human shampoo (including those designed for babies) or dog products can be too harsh and dry out the cat’s skin and, in some cases, can be toxic. For wet wipes, you can use them to clean your cat’s face or groom your coat until bath day comes.
What can I do if my cat cannot be bathed?
Some cats will really enjoy the bath and some will not; be patient and don’t scold him. If your feline really hates bathing, try praising him, asking for help, or trying next time. If bathing your cat at home turns out to be too troublesome, a professional cat groomer with experience will be the best solution for effective cleaning.
