Bathing your cat may be the most intimidating activity that any pet owner has experienced. This article will give you all the information you need in order to successfully bathe your cat without losing an arm or leg.
First, you need to gather all your supplies. For this method you will need a very large Rubbermaid container with a lid, preferably clear so you can see what you're doing. You will also need a water source and a bit of soap. You can use flea shampoo for cats or dish detergent - whatever you happen to have on hand. You will also need a couple of towels. These towels are not to dry your cat, they are to spread on the floor to help minimize some of the mess.
Now that you have all your materials, you need to prepare the bath before you get your cat. Cats seem to instinctively know when their owners are preparing to bathe them. In order to protect themselves from the hated bath, they will do just about anything. Being ready before you get the cat increases your likelihood of success dramatically.
First you put about a half a teaspoon of soap into the plastic container. Then you put about 3 to 4 inches of warm water into the container. The water needs to be warm - not too cold and not too hot - so that your cat will be as comfortable as possible. After your bath is ready, you need to get the lid to the container and have it on top with a small opening to allow for placement of the cat. The lid will keep the cat from jumping out immediately and running off.
Now, go get your cat and hold her by the neck and under her belly to keep her from scratching you. If you're lucky, she has no idea what is about to occur and you will be able to utilize the element of surprise in your attack. Take the cat to the location of the bath and quickly put her in the container and close the lid. This is another reason why clear plastic is best. When you put the lid on, your cat still has some light for visibility. You may need to hold the lid in place while your cat commences to thrash and howl and attempt to escape.
Wait five minutes before you release your cat. During this time you will notice that your cat will continue to thrash and attempt to escape. This thrashing will act like an agitator in the washing machine. Your cat will basically bathe herself while trying to get out of the water. Your only job will be to watch and laugh - and, of course, let her out.
When you let her out, do not attempt to dry her off. She will not be in a snuggling mood. She will likely yowl and hiss and make a run for the hills. You may see her later in the evening at dinner time, but don't count on it. Just rest assured in the knowledge that your cat, at least for today, is wonderfully clean.
