Today we gave our cat a bath. Here are a few tips.
1.) make sure it's not a cold day. They won't let you blow dry them, so they'll need to air dry a bit. They'll dry faster on a warmer day.
2.) have the bath water be medium warm. Cold water might shock the cat a bit. Hot water will definitely be uncomfortable for them. Medium warm water is relaxing and comforting to the cat.
3.) have an exit plan. If your cat starts to freak out, have a quick exit plan so that they don't completely hate the experience.
4.) use a cup to pour water on the cat. Use a simple cup to gently pour water on your cat. A shower head spray will likely scare or confuse your cat.
5.) soap or shampoo. Use a vetanarian recommended soap if your cat needs this. Often just water will be enough.
6.) stand in the bath tube with your cat. This helps them experience this as an "us" event instead of a "me vs you" event.
7.) finally, give your cat a treat once they're out of the bath. This helps them understand that this was a positive event.
Do you have any feline bathing tips or experiences?