Some cats never need to be bathed because they keep themselves clean by licking or grooming. However, there are cases where some cats can't reach all areas of their body, so they need a bath. 

For example, heavier cats can still get dirty if they don't reach far enough, and older cats can't reach as well as they used to. These neglected areas of their body become grimy, irritated, and flaky. 

Some indoor cats may have also soiled themselves after using the litter box or have gotten into paint or ashes. Shorthairs typically don’t need extra hands for their grooming.. However, if you have long-haired cats, you may need to spend additional time grooming them. Your cat may also need bathing if he has fleas or some other skin disease.

So to answer the question: every cat owner may find themselves needing to bathe their cat at some point.

Why Are Cats Hydrophobic?

Some domestic cats actually enjoy the water. Your cat may enjoy soaking in cool, refreshing water if you live in a hot, dry climate, especially if they have arthritis. 

However, cats that don't want to get wet may eventually need to get used to baths by gradually increasing the time spent in water. The best way to do this is using a sink or a small wading pool.

During winter, cats tend not to enjoy the water because it makes them feel cold, vulnerable, and uncomfortable. Hence bathing does not help them warm up. 

What to Prepare before Bathing a Cat?

Before you start to run a bath, recruit someone to help you out. This is going to take some effort! Next, collect your supplies. Buying extra gloves and towels should be a priority. Add thick rubber gloves, cat shampoo, a cup, pitcher, or gentle spray nozzle for rinsing. 

You should also consider buying a few treats to reward or bribe your cat for the bath. There are several other options as well. You may want a tub for cats, cotton balls for cleaning the kitty's ears, and a small cloth for cleaning the kitty's face. 

Before bathing your scruffy cat, brush out its mane to remove knots and tangles that could get caught in its coat. Wear long sleeves, too, because even if it doesn't turn into a mountain lion, it might scratch you as you go about the process of rigging up a makeshift bath.

Why Should You Trust Professional Groomers?

Did you know that a cat can have 130,000 hairs covering its body? So it's no surprise that they need grooming. If you own a long-haired cat like a Persian or Maine Coon, you know that brushing its fur is a regular requirement to prevent matted fur.

Also, grooming prevents injuries. A cat sometimes would matt furball that becomes attached to its skin or may have ingrown toenails. These cases would hurt cats, and if the case worsens, they won't be able to run or walk. 

As part of a routine, groomers examine a cat for parasites and any lumps or bumps, which can help catch potential problems before they get serious.

Conclusion

Contrary to popular belief, cats do need to be bathed from time to time. There will be times they will need help with grooming, and during those times, it’s best to bring them to professional groomers.

The Ruff Life Mobile is the “world’s best” New York-based pet grooming on wheels. Get your pets professionally groomed by scheduling an appointment with us today!