Bath Time
 
Since cats are generally very good about keeping themselves clean, they do not often require bathing. Cats usually do not appreciate being bathed, but the occasional bath may be necessary.

When to Bathe Your Cat
Even though cats are very clean animals, a bath may be necessary in the following situations:

• Your cat's coat is very dirty and greasy.
• Your cat's fur is matted and ungroomed.
• A poisonous material is in your cat's fur.
• You need to give it a flea, tick and lice dip.
• Your cat is going to be in a cat show.

Many long haired cats are extremely susceptible to matted fur and hairballs. Matted fur can become contaminated with feces and may actually damage the skin itself. Cutting mats out should only be done by the experienced as it is quite easy to cut your cat's skin. If your cat's fur is severely matted, your best course of action is to contact a veterinarian.

How to Bathe Your Cat
As you may already know, most cats do not like water and may struggle when you try to bathe them, even if this action is for their own good. The following tips will help make your cat's bath time a less stressful occasion for both you and your feline.

• Try to bathe your cat in a sink or plastic tub. This is less threatening than a large bathtub.

• Provide a rubber mat to prevent your cat from slipping.

• Pre-adjust the water temperature and lower your cat into an empty tub before filling it with water. This works better than attempting to lower your cat into standing water.

• Gently wet the entire coat to the skin, being careful to avoid the eyes and ears.

• After you have lathered shampoo into your cat's coat, be sure to completely rinse it out all traces of shampoo. A gentle spray attachment is easiest to use here.

• Gently towel your cat dry and carefully comb its hair.

Remember to give your cat plenty of love and attention before and after its bath. This will make bath time more enjoyable for both you and your pet!