Do Cats Need Bathing? When to Bathe a Cat

Cats can get messy, smelly or dirty for many reasons. What happens when your cat needs to be bathed?

Do Cats Like Water?

The common wisdom is that cats are almost as afraid of water as humans. This means that bathing can be a huge headache for owners. But that’s not actually the case! Some cats don’t mind water at all; some even love it

But there are a number of reasons that, traditionally, cats don’t like water. They can be anything from the chemicals that can be found in tap water, to their biological make up–cats don’t like losing body heat.

All cats are unique. When asking ‘do cats need bathing?’ you need to look at your particular pet and assess their personality.

How can cats keep their own clean?

Cats have been cleaning their homes well for a long period of time. They care for their coats by themselves licking themselves. This is a way for cats not to get dirty, but it is a simplified version.

Actually, licking serves a variety of functions. It not only maintains their coat, but it also helps them cool off. It helps them eliminate foreign odors, which is something we know is important to their coats. They also lick any cuts or wounds that they may have, just like other animals.

This means while cats seem to be fastidious about their hygiene, they don’t have the same concerns about being ‘clean’ as we do.

When do cats need a bath?

Cats are able to groom themselves, but sometimes it is necessary for humans to help them. When do cats require our assistance to clean their cat’s hair?

There are many reasons why a cat might need to be bathed by a human.

Age

An older cat might have developed arthritisMobility problems similar to theirs. This means that it might be difficult for them reach areas of their body that they may not have been able to before. You may have to bathe them in order to keep them clean.

Disabilities/Medical Issues

Also, cats that are larger or heavier than normal will not be able reach all areas of their bodies. This can cause a buildup of odors or dirt in the more sensitive areas. In the same way, cats with injuries may need assistance grooming.

Hygiene Issues

Many cats, especially outdoors ones, can end up with their paws mucky in a variety of ways. Flea infestations are a common example. Despite their best efforts, they won’t be able to solve this themselves.

Specifications for Breeds

Some breeds of cats require regular baths, even though it may seem strange. Both the Peterbald and Sphynx cats have oily skin. Regular baths can help regulate their coat, prevent flaking, infection, and keep them healthy. acneYou can choose to be one or the other.

Mud, Poop, Vomit, etc.

Although some cats love to glide around the world and not touch anything, it can sometimes be necessary. A cat’s fur may get covered in paint, or tree sap or anything else that can be spilled inside or outside the house! It doesn’t matter what it is, it won’t be easy to get rid of without bathing.

Our sweet Yoda is blessed with a fluffy behind that can get tangled up with bits of stinky poop occasionally. In the interest of not letting him lick it clean… We give him a bath. 🙂

How to Bathe a Cat

Bathing a cat does not have to be stressful. There are many things to consider when bathing a cat. great guidesYou can find out how to give your cat an enjoyable bath. As long as you take your time, ease them into it, and have a lot of treats on hand you won’t have too much a problem.

This will ensure that any uncertainty is not picked up on. However it goes, you’ll probably get a little wet yourself in the process!

Although the technique may vary, here are some key tips for bathing cats.

Don’t Use Human Shampoo!

First, don’t use human shampoo. Human shampoo is not designed for pets and can cause damage that lasts a long time.

As well as giving them unfamiliar odors to contend with (and will hate), shampoo designed for human hair can strip natural oils from a cat’s fur.

Use cat shampoo

You will need a cat shampoo that is specially formulated. You will also need a suitable bathing place, such as a sink or tub.  Once you have completed this, you can begin to bathe them.

It is also possible for a cat shampoo to be created. at home. This shampoo is made with natural ingredients. It does not contain any unusual scents that could upset your cat.

Bathing cats without water

It is possible to bathe your cat without using water. Developed for cats who really don’t want to be near water, it is possible to get wet grooming wipes for cats.

These wipes don’t have the same abrasiveness as typical wipes humans use. They allow owners confidence to wipe hard to reach areas such around ears and eyes or between gaps between paws.

Do cats need to be bathed? Final Thoughts

Do cats need to be bathed? It all depends on what you need to bathe your cat for. It all depends on what you need to bathe the cat for.

Cats need to be clean for many reasons. Sometimes they need help to maintain their basic hygiene needs. You might need to bathe your cat if he or she is unable to clean himself. A special scrub session is required if your cat is particularly dirty or if they have fleas.

This helps maintain their coats and aids with odor control. It will benefit their mental and bodily health.

Before you bathe your cat, make sure you are 100% certain how they are going to reactApproach it in a calm and sensible manner that won’t upset them.