While most cats have an intrinsic motivation to keep themselves clean, kittens may need some help. Maybe they made a mess in the litter box, or they got a little dirty at feeding time. Some kittens may need special care if they are dealing with a nasty skin condition like ringworm.
A quick bath can help keep Kitty clean and healthy, but be careful. Kittens don’t have the necessary fat reserves to control their body temperature. If they get too cold during or after a bath, they may be more susceptible to illness or infection.
That’s why it’s best to consult your veterinarian before giving your cat a bath. “It’s important to keep kittens clean and dry. But it’s a balance between understanding how fragile they are and knowing how important bathing is.
The following is the correct way to schedule a bath so that neither kittens nor humans are harmed.
Slow start
The first few months of a kitten’s life are a critical socialization phase. We don’t want bath time to be so painful that it threatens their future ability to bond with their humans. Before you consider throwing your cat in the tub, you want to make sure that your cat is completely comfortable while being dried off.
After your comfort level has been determined, you can add a wet towel to the equation. Wipe the paws first, then slowly move your legs and torso upwards. Once your cat is used to the feeling of being wet and rubbed, you can move into a full bathing experience.
Again, the key is to take your time. Let the kitten hear the water flow and splash. Play with her and let her know she’s in a safe place. Give your cat lots of praise, cuddles and cat treats throughout the process.
The more gradual and relaxed this experience is, the more relaxed you will be.” “Cats can sense what we’re feeling. If we’re in a state of high anxiety, they feel it.”
Be prepared
The most important thing you need is patience.
In addition, you’ll need a place to bathe your cat, shampoo suitable for cats, a cup for pouring water, and plenty of warm, fluffy towels. (Bonus points if it’s from the dryer.)
If your sink is too small, or your bathtub is too large, a small plastic basin (similar in size and shape to a small box) can come in handy.
Add warm water and you also want to make sure the room is warm. If it’s cold outside, you definitely don’t want the cat to be exposed to the wind.
Start by placing the kitten’s feet in the water. After she feels comfortable, place a folded towel at the bottom of the tub. When Kitty is ready to stand up on her own in the water, this will give her something to put her paws in (other than your hand).
Giving kittens something to scratch will make them feel safer, which makes bathing easier for everyone.
Throughout the process, you’ll want to make sure the kitten’s face stays dry and exposed to the water to prevent her from drowning or inhaling water. A small cup will help you rinse off those areas that cannot be submerged by water.
Use of shampoo for cats
Always use a cat shampoo that is clearly indicated to be kitten-friendly. Do not use human or dog shampoos; detergents can dry out kittens’ skin. Choose an unscented brand. Unscented dishwashing soap is also a safe and easy option – it’s gentle and inexpensive.
Cats have a very strong sense of smell. To them, a scented shampoo feels like “they’ve been poured into a bottle of perfume.
Avoid putting soap directly on the kitten. Bells suggests mixing some shampoo and water in a small dish and then bathing the cat with the lather.
It is recommended that gloves not be worn during the procedure.
When you put on gloves, you lose that sensitive sense of touch,. When you’re holding a kitten, it’s hard to tell how much strength you have.
If the cat is having a bad time and you’re worried you’ll get scratched, let it go. Even if it makes a mess.
It’s much easier to wash clean water than to go to the doctor.
Cleaning and blow drying
Avoid using soap and water around your face and eyes. A wet towel is enough. You also want to avoid rubbing the rectal area as it can cause irritation.
It is recommended that the cat be washed three times so that the soap does not stick to the skin and cause irritation.
When bathing, dry your kitten with a towel fresh from the dryer. While it’s important to get your cat dry and warm as quickly as possible, don’t use a hair dryer; a blast of hot air can burn her delicate skin.
