What is the best way to wash an older cat for the first time?
She is a bit of a scaredy cat so I'm afraid she will freak out. I can handle a few scratches but I would like to live :p
Any suggestions on how to go about it?
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M$4 Answers
You should ask someone to help you, the cat may not appreciate the bath since she is not used to it.
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M$
If you do decide to try and bathe her I would suggest calling two friends over, wrapping everyone's arms up with a towel (rubber bands). Have one friend hold her back legs, another friend hold her front legs while you try and bathe her. Once you start doing this DO NOT STOP, keep going until complete. Please make sure you don't get any water in her ear.
35 years of owning cats and tons of scars on my arms to prove my point!
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M$
I'm sorry I probably used the wrong word when I said clump. It's not really a clump of hair as such, its hard to describe. It's not something that could really be cut out, but I do think bathing plus brushing will get it out.
Once its out I'll be able to maintain it, so this is probably only going to be a one time thing.
I may end up having to take her to a pro. I was hoping I wouldn't have to because she doesn't exactly like traveling either.
peace,
joe
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M$
When I gave my dog a bath for the first time, I just plopped her in the shower. She was scared of the shower (with no water running), so I just sat in there with her (still no water) and calmed her down.
Once she was comfortable, I just grabbed the shower hose and started giving her a shower. She wasn't comfortable and throughout the bath I had to stop and calm her down.
So just go easy with him/her. If he/she starts getting mean, just turn off the water for a few, calm him/her down, and try again. It's a less than pleasurable process for both parties. Obviously they're not used to it, and forcing them to do something will only make them dislike it more.
To summarize, just ease them into it, and try to keep them calm throughout the bathing. If they get too frightened, or belligerent, give them a few minutes and try again. The more you bath them, and the easier you make it for them, the more they'll be willing to do it the next time.
If your cat gets too hysterical no matter what you try, you could consider taking him/her to groomers.
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M$
