There is little about caring for a cat as enjoyable as washing a pet. It's good that cats are naturally pretty clean, but sometimes washing is necessary. It is important to choose the right methods and means for washing.
For washing cats, use only those products that are intended specifically for this animal. Shampoos released for humans have a slightly different pH ratio and dry the cat's skin. Dog shampoos can contain substances that are harmful or even harmful to cats.
When choosing a shampoo, you must try so that your pet is not irritated by its smell. A rare cat likes to smell like lavender shampoo - after washing, she will try to lick it off. It's better not to even try to use the citrus scent.
How to keep a cat while washing
To bathe your cat, it is best to put it in a bathtub or basin and grip it firmly by the scruff. This is how cats keep their kittens. Castor oil or mineral oil can be dripped into the animal's eyes to avoid irritation from the soap.
If the cat is an adult and at the same time is not used to bathing, the task becomes somewhat more complicated. Cats accustomed to washing from an early age can tolerate the procedure as unpleasant, but inevitable - they do not escape during washing, but only express their disapproval, for example, by hissing.
You can put a rubber mat in the bathing container. The cat can stand on it, even dig in its claws. Feeling firm support under their paws, most cats stop struggling.
How to wash a cat
The fur of the animal must be moistened with warm water, it is more convenient to use a shower for this, so the water does not get into the cat's face. If the shampoo is good, it will lather quickly, even when the cat's coat is not very wet. It is also very easy to wash it off. Washing should be fast, the movements of the person should be careful. Cats don't like long bathing. The longer they lather and rinse, the more impatient they become.
Remember to close the door of the room when you bathe your cat, otherwise it may break free and run away. It is better to file her claws in advance. Bathing needs to be done quickly and efficiently - great if you manage to do it in ten minutes. Lather the coat with an ear-to-tail motion - especially when using a flea shampoo. Rinse off, starting at the back of the neck.
You should try to wash off the foam as soon as possible - the soaped cat is slippery, and it becomes uncomfortable to hold it. When washing off the soap, try not to get water in the face - the animal will be frightened. After the soap is completely washed off, the cat is taken out of the basin, bath and wrapped in a large towel. Dry the cat more carefully, especially if it is long-haired - wet areas of the coat can easily become infected with fungus.
