Training an Adult Cat for a Bath
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Training an Adult Cat for a Bath
Cat's don't 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 cat's 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 won't 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 'dunk' him. Always give him treats and special attention after the 'bath.'
Finally, use only enough water to get him wet and rinse him; usually no deeper than his 'knees.' This should be enough water to give him a bath, without creating the panic of trying to swim. Also, don't 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: don't use a sprayer, this will cause panic in the cat. Instead, use a plastic cup or glass to pour the water over his body.
Comments
1/4/2009 2:33:05 PMAaron said:
I use a sprayer, but make sure to not spray its face.
3/7/2009 12:21:53 PM
Kelley said:
Wow I hope this stuff works on my 1year old cat,Coco
3/7/2009 12:22:05 PM
Kelley said:
Wow I hope this stuff works on my 1year old cat,Coco
4/24/2009 4:09:54 AM
DJ said:
Please add a caution to this article: cats can have life-threatening allergic reactions to human shampoos and can be lethally chemically burned. NEVER use human shampoos on a cat.
7/1/2012 1:37:53 AM
Kittylover said:
Cats do not need nor is it safe for them to have a hot water bath. Only allow your cats bath water to be warm as a baby's bathwater or slightly warmer to the touch. Your cat is a sensitive creature and if the water is warm enough for a small child, it will be good for your kitty.
4/14/2015 1:53:34 AM
Kerry Stansbury said:
You should never wash your cat unless there is a specific reason, such as it gets into something or a flea bath etc... There is no reason to and it only has negative effects on you cat. If you do it because you are allergic to cats, don't get a cat!
