You don’t need to regularly bathe your healthy cat—they’re usually quite good at grooming themselves! However, cats who have underlying skin conditions like allergies, infections or parasites may benefit from bathing. It’s best to get your kitten acclimated to baths while they’re young. Follow these tips to make bath time less stressful for your feline friend:
- Consider using a smaller area, such as a sink or small tub.
- Use high-value treats to reward your kitten during bathtime.
- If your kitten is already fearful of bath time, reward them for getting into a tub without water inside. Let them eat treats off the edge of the tub or sink. Pick them up, place them in the tub and reward them with treats. Slowly add water while giving them treats. Reward, reward, reward!
- Use warm water. Make sure the water temperature is comfortable by testing it with your hand or elbow, but keep in mind that your cat’s skin is thinner than yours and may be more sensitive to temperature extremes.
- Consider using a nonslip bath mat so your kitten feels steady and secure.
Remember that patience and positive reinforcement are your friends. If your kitten is struggling with prescribed baths, speak with your VCA care team.
Have questions about your kitten’s itch? Live Chat for free* with our licensed veterinary professionals anytime. Download the myVCA app.
*Live Chat with a licensed veterinary professional is free for VCA clients through the myVCA mobile app, available at Apple’s App Store and Google Play.
