Most of us learned when we were young that cats, unlike dogs, are born with those sandpaper tongues so that they can clean themselves instead of requiring baths. However, a number of cat owners give their cats baths regularly, depending on the length of the cat’s coat and his or her tolerance. This can be helpful and healthy to both the cat and the owner for a number of reasons, including: optimal coat and skin health, shedding and hairball reduction, human allergy relief, mat prevention, and a chance to discover health issues such as fleas and ticks.http://www.cathealth.com/groombath.htm

In this aspect, a cat bath seems ideal for both parties. However, not all cats require or tolerate baths well, and not just because most cats don’t like water. Different cats require different methods of grooming, and very few require regular grooming by their owners. Short-haired cats, for example, are highly efficient in cleaning themselves and not only require little bathing, but also little brushing. Long-haired cats, however, require more time brushing and, while not always enthusiastic, their skin and coat often takes well to an occasional bath.http://www.cathealth.com/groombath.htm

If you are thinking about bathing your cat, make sure you contact your veterinarian to make sure your cat is one that should be subjected to this type of bath. If your veterinarian approves it for your feline, following a few simple guidelines when taking on the task will make the process easier for both you and your cat.

The first step, and sometimes most difficult, is immersing the cat in the water. While some cats surprisingly don't mind water as much as others, most loathe it and may put up a fight, especially if it is their first bath. Start by slowly introducing your cat to the water, which should be kept at around his body temperature of 101.4.http://www.iams.com/iams/pet-health/cat-grooming.jsp?gclid=CIPSmbPv-KACFQOF7Qod2GSGwQ Anything too hot or too cold is uncomfortable or dangerous for the cat.

Start by inserting the cat's feet into the water and continue until the cat is fully immersed in the water. The best place for a bath is a kitchen sink or other waist-high wash area as it allows for the most accessibility.http://www.iams.com/iams/pet-health/cat-grooming.jsp?gclid=CIPSmbPv-KACFQOF7Qod2GSGwQ Remember, however, never to directly wet the cat's head. It should instead be cleaned with a wet washcloth.http://www.pets.ca/pettips/tips-87.htm.

Bathing a cat is often easier if done with a partner, as four hands are better equipped to handle those four legs.http://www.pets.ca/pettips/tips-87.htm If one person contributes merely by keeping the cat in the water, the actual bathing process can be completed in a shorter period of time, preventing scratches and trouble for the owner and an unpleasant experience for the cat.

There is a simple process for the cat bath that can help yield the best result. First, use a shampoo that is for cats ONLY. Human, dog, and other shampoos that are not formulated for cats' skin and hair, can be damaging to either or both. When you've acquired your kitty shampoo, also be sure to grab an old cup, a towel, and a hair dryer.http://www.iams.com/iams/pet-health/cat-grooming.jsp?gclid=CIPSmbPv-KACFQOF7Qod2GSGwQ

Once your materials have been gathered and the kitty is in the water, start the bathing process by lathering her up. It might be helpful to start with her back and belly, as her legs will be subjected to any shampoo that runs off of her during the course of the bath anyway. Remember also to wash the cats face and head gently with a washcloth. http://www.pets.ca/pettips/tips-87.htm After you have washed her thoroughly, rinse her off until the water runs clear.http://www.iams.com/iams/pet-health/cat-grooming.jsp?gclid=CIPSmbPv-KACFQOF7Qod2GSGwQ

The next step is the most critical in bathing a cat: rinse again. Any leftover residue can cause an unpleasant taste and a painful irritation that can cause skin problems.http://www.iams.com/iams/pet-health/cat-grooming.jsp?gclid=CIPSmbPv-KACFQOF7Qod2GSGwQ The best way to do this is by draining the water while the cat is still in the wash area, so that the shampoo in the water does not remain on his legs when he is removed. Start by re-rinsing the top of him from neck to rear, then continue on until all four legs and paws are sud-free.

When removing your kitty from the wash area, you'll want to first lift him out with a towel. After doing this, rub the cat dry to best of your ability before turning on the hair dryer. When using the hair dryer, be sure not to use an older one that is too loud or one that does not have a low setting. High settings and loud dryers can startle cats that may already be slightly agitated by receiving a bath.http://www.pets.ca/pettips/tips-87.htm

This part is again dependent upon the coat of the cat, as not all require air drying. Short-haired cats will generally dry on their own, so a thorough towel dry will do. Medium- and long-haired cats, however, tend to mat easier, so it is important that a dryer be used post-bath. Sometimes, especially in the case of medium-haired cats, only a dryer is necessary. However, long-haired and exotic breeds such as Persians should be brushed while being dried in order to prevent excess tangling.http://www.iams.com/iams/pet-health/cat-grooming.jsp?gclid=CIPSmbPv-KACFQOF7Qod2GSGwQ

After being dried, you and your kitty can reap the benefits of the bath. While you might find yourself sneezing less or using your pet hair roller less often, your cat might show off her bright, healthy coat or have found some relief from her hairballs. Cat bathing, when done properly, may be beneficial to both the cat and the owner.