That is what makes dish soaps inappropriate for regular bathing for dogs and cats. When used for routine bathing of your pets, dishwashing soaps will quickly strip your pet’s skin of the natural oils that help to nourish and protect it.
Why Might A Cat Need To Be Washed?
Although cats rarely need to be washed, there are a few reasons why they might:
- They have something unpleasant, like grease, motor oil, or dirt, on their coat. Before the cat tries to lick itself clean, it’s important to wash off some substances, especially if they might be toxic. Consult your veterinarian right away if you believe your cat may have something hazardous on their fur.
- Because of health problems like obesity, arthritis, or tooth pain, they are not taking proper care of their appearance.
- They have to present a spotless coat because they are attending a cat show.
- Their skin itches as a result of fleas, skin infections, or allergies. Your veterinarian can provide you with advice on the best shampoo for the particular condition of your pet.
In the majority of these cases, you have time to buy a particular brand of cat shampoo to make sure you’re using a secure and efficient product before giving your cat a wash.
Also Read: The 6 Best Flea Shampoos For Cats
10 Simple Steps For Washing A Cat
It’s time to get ready to give your cat a bath once you’ve decided what to use to wash them. When washing a cat, it’s usually beneficial to have an extra pair of hands, so try to get assistance from someone your cat is comfortable and well-known to.
- Preparation is key. Your cat may object (possibly quite strongly) if they haven’t had a regular bath since they were kittens. Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need. If your cat tries to scratch you, wear long sleeves and think about wearing gloves and an apron (especially if you are bathing something unpleasant off your cat).
- Ready the room. To help reassure your cat, try using a pheromone product and playing some soothing classical music.
- Prepare the tub. When washing a cat, it’s easier to use a waist-high sink than to bend over a bathtub. It’ll be better for your knees and back, and you’ll have more control over your cat in a confined space, like a sink. To give your cat some grip and make them feel more secure, place a towel or rubber mat on the bottom of the sink. Add three to four inches of warm water to the sink. If you attempt to lower or submerge your cat in deeper water, they will become anxious.
- Cut your cat’s nails to lessen the likelihood that you’ll be stung.
- Gently lower your cat into the sink. To prevent them from jumping out, use one hand to support their neck and the other to gently encircle their body.
- Using a low-power shower head or cups of water, gradually moisten their fur, working your way up to the neck region from the area closest to the tail. Do not pour or spray water onto your cat’s face. Your cat is less likely to object if you use a shower head and position the spray close to their body.
- Gently massage a small amount your chosen product (e. g. , dish soap, or baby shampoo) into the furry area and create a lather to get rid of the undesirable material. To get rid of all the cleaning solution residue from your cat’s fur, give it a thorough rinse in clean water.
- With a moist cloth or cotton ball, gently clean your cat’s face, eyes, and ears. While your cat is still in the sink, use a towel to gently remove as much water as possible from their coat. Then, wrap and gently dry them with a second towel.
- Try to dry the coat as much as you can, especially in the winter. With the smallest heat and speed settings, some cats can handle using a hair dryer. Particularly for cats with long hair, be sure to thoroughly brush through the coat.
- To help your cat associate being washed with being clean in the future, give them lots of praise and some of their favorite treats.
Many cats may not be thrilled about being washed because this is likely the first time they have ever experienced it. To minimize your cat’s stress, expedite the process by organizing all necessary materials ahead of time before starting to wash your pet.
See Also: The Top 7 Cat Wipes for Dirt and Dander
Can I use human shampoo on my cat?
Because human and cat skin have different pH levels, it is not advised to use human shampoo on your pet. Unscented baby shampoo is safe to use in an emergency since it is made for sensitive, delicate skin.
FAQ
What can I use to wash my cat?
Is Dawn dish soap safe for animals?
Can I wash my cat with washing up liquid?
Is it OK to wash cats with human shampoo?