October 27, 2006, Newsletter Issue #139: Training an Adult Cat for a Bath
Tip of the Week
Catīs donīt like water; that is a well known fact. However, any cat can be trained to tolerate a bath. Use this method once a day, every day, and at the end of a month, you should be able to give your kitty a full bath without too much trouble.
First, the water must be warm, because a catīs normal temperature is higher than humans. A hot bath for a human is a normal temperature for cats. If the cat shivers, the water is too cold; if he pants, the water is too hot.
Second, choose a location that has a flat surface, so the cat will feel secure that he can stand easily. Add a towel or rubber mat to the bath surface so the cat wonīt slip, creating more panic.
Third, start with just enough water to cover his feet. For the first week, just dunk his feet into the water and immediately pull him out and dry his feet. Then give him plenty of treats and special attention.
Gradually increase the depth of the water, and the amount of time you īdunkī him. Always give him treats and special attention after the ībath.ī
Finally, use only enough water to get him wet and rinse him; usually no deeper than his īknees.ī This should be enough water to give him a bath, without creating the panic of trying to swim. Also, donīt leave his feet in the water unless you have to. Allowing him to stand on dry land (like the back end of a bath tub) will decrease his discomfort and make him easier to control.
A note of caution: donīt use a sprayer, this will cause panic in the cat. Instead, use a plastic cup or glass to pour the water over his body.
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