Rub-A-Dub – Should you be putting your kitty in the tub?

You know that your cat likes to keep clean. She will wash herself several times a day – but she does need a little extra help from you to keep her at her furry best.

Cats are also known to be a bit temperamental, so your grooming should take place when your cat is relaxed. Be sure to approach it as a positive time for you and your cat. This can be a time when you bond and she gets your undivided attention… and no cat wants to pass up that opportunity!

If this is your first time grooming your cat, start off small. Start at a couple of minutes and work your way up. Once your cat gets used to the routine, you’ll be able to spend more time on her. If you find that your cat isn’t taking well to your grooming sessions, be patient, start slowly and keep trying when she’s calmer. And once the grooming is complete for the day, reward with a treat for a job well done.

Brushing

To remove dirt, prevent tangles and keep your cat’s skin clean, you should get into the habit for brushing or combing your feline. As well, brushing helps to spread natural oils, giving her a shiny and healthy coat.

Depending on your cat’s coat, the frequency of brushings will vary. Short coats will only need to be brushed once a week. Long-haired cats need a daily brushing. In both cases, be careful around her chest and belly, and don’t forget her tail. You should use a bristle or rubber brush – this type of brush is great for removing dead and loose hair.

Bathing

Yep – most cats hate water. Thank goodness for you, you won’t have to undertake this feat very often. The only time you’ll have to give your cat a bath is when its coat is greasy or she gets into something smelly or sticky (or both!).

First, brush your cat to get rid of mats and tangles. If you’re using a tub or sink, put down a rubber mat and fill the basin up with about 3 to 4 inches of lukewarm water. Use a spray hose or a cup to wet your cat. Make sure you avoid the eyes, ears and nose if you’re using a spray. Massage in the mild shampoo, starting from the head and making your way to the tail. Rinse and dry your cat with a large towel.