🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 48 (from laksa050)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa048.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical, ml_categories_json AS ml_categories_json, ml_types_json AS ml_types_json, ml_intent_types_json AS ml_intent_types_json, meta_language AS meta_language, attrs_author AS attrs_author, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_publish_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_original_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_original_publish_time, ifNull(attrs_is_republished, 0) AS attrs_is_republished, ifNull(attrs_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_nr_words, ifNull(attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, ifNull(body_ext_links_number, 0) AS body_ext_links_number, ifNull(body_int_links_number, 0) AS body_int_links_number, ifNull(meta_nofollow, 0) AS meta_nofollow, ifNull(meta_noarchive, 0) AS meta_noarchive, ifNull(props_was_rendered, 0) AS props_was_rendered, ifNull(src_redirect, \'\') AS src_redirect, ifNull(download_time_msec, 0) AS download_time_msec, ifNull(download_ttfb_msec, 0) AS download_ttfb_msec, ifNull(download_size, 0) AS download_size FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-grooming/bathe-a-cat\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-grooming/bathe-a-cat\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/cat-grooming\/bathe-a-cat","crawl_time":1776344697,"first_indexed_time":1598349018,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,dailypaws!www,\/cats-kittens\/cat-grooming\/bathe-a-cat s443","src_root_hash":"6239965237218936248","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Bathe a Cat or Kitten Without Getting Scratched","meta_descriptions":["Cats are great groomers, so you'll rarely need to give your cat a bath. But if you do need to, these tips can help, even if she hates the water."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"There are certainly dozens of other chores you'd rather tackle than giving your cat a bath—and without a doubt, your kitty doesn't welcome the idea either! But when you need to provide the best care for your adorable fuzzball, we have helpful tips to make bath time easier.\nFirst, choose a calm moment when your cat is relaxed, and gently introduce them to water to minimize stress. Use lukewarm water and a cat-specific shampoo, and keep the experience brief and comforting to ensure your cat feels safe. Plus, remember that an understanding, cat-loving friend can help make the process easier.\nDo Cats Really Need to Be Bathed?\nThe good news is, most cast breeds don't require regular bathing says Tarina L. Anthony, DVM, a longtime practitioner of feline-exclusive medicine, and owner and medical director of\nAurora Cat Hospital and Hotel\nin Aurora, Colorado. \"Many people ask me when they get a new cat how often they should be bathing them,\" she says. By nature, cats are fastidious creatures and able to keep themselves clean.\"\nWaitforlight \/ Getty\nA cat's rough tongue is covered with tiny curved barbs called\npapillae\nthat transfer saliva across her fur. This is like a mini spa treatment, as each lap spreads healthy natural oils across her coat and skin. Those little spines work as natural detanglers, too, which is why you'll often see your kitty licking and biting at fur clumps until she smooths everything out.\nAlthough a cat spends about 30% of her time on daily self-care\n—\nbetween naps, of course!\n—Anthony says it's more important to keep your cat groomed than to worry about bathing them, as regular brushing and combing helps reveal health problems more quickly. \"Many times,\nskin conditions\nare signs of underlying metabolic or gastrointestinal disease, so if your cat's hair coat has changed, talk to your vet,\" she says.\nRoutine salon time with your kitty also helps reduce loose hair and prevent\nhairballs\n. Try using a metal comb to gently loosen matted areas, especially under her belly and along her legs. Follow with a rubber or bristle brush to remove dirt and loose hair all over her body. Groom short-haired cats about once a week, and\nlong-haired beauties\nevery day.\nHow Often Should You Bathe a Cat?\nCertain circumstances require you to give a cat or kitten a bath. Anthony advises bathing a cat if she's gotten into something she shouldn't ingest, such as motor oil,\nantifreeze\n, gasoline, or paint. Basically, anything that gets on her fur that could be harmful needs to be washed off immediately.\nAnthony also notes some felines develop skin conditions that are soothed with bathing, such as seborrhea, a disorder that causes flakey, red, and itchy skin. Your veterinarian might also recommend medicated baths for treating other health conditions, such as severe\nflea allergies\nor\nringworm\n.\nOlder cats with arthritis or who are obese might need you to bathe them more frequently, as they're not always able to groom well and often have trouble reaching certain spots and preventing odors. As much as cats hate water, they dislike being unkempt even more.\nMany long-haired breeds, such as Maine coons, Persians, and Himalayans, benefit from a bath every couple of months or so to minimize fur matting. Some short-haired cats with dense coats might also need an occasional bath.\nHairless breeds\n, like the Sphynx, probably need more frequent bathing than furred felines, as they have an oily residue that gets on fabrics when they're particularly grimy. If you don't want to bathe your hairless cat weekly, Anthony suggests cat-specific grooming or baby wipes for regular upkeep.\nConsult your veterinarian about your pet's particular needs to establish the best routine.\nHow to Bathe a Cat Who Hates Water\nWhile many wild beasts such as jaguars, leopards, lions, and tigers swim quite well and laze in rivers to cool off, few domesticated cats enjoy being in the water. Drinking from a faucet or curling up in a dry sink for a cozy snooze are her choices. Baths are not.\nAnthony says there are many theories about why most cats dislike water. \"One is they don't like their fur weighed down—imagine wearing a wet blanket. Another is water changes their natural scent,\" she says. \"Or perhaps it's because they don't have control of the situation. Cats are tiny control freaks in fur coats.\"\nSo when a bath is inevitable, staying calm will help you both. First, get prepped to:\nChoose a time after she's eaten or played, as she'll be more mellow.\nIf possible,\ntrim her nails\nbefore\nthe bath, filing the ends as well after they're clipped to dull them.\nPut all your bath supplies within easy reach, including treats to reward her with afterward. Some cat lovers even warm a towel in the dryer and use aromatherapy so the experience is more comforting. Make sure to use shampoo and creme rinse specifically formulated for cats.\nPlan for a short grooming session to make handling her fur much easier.\nHelpful Tips\nHere are additional suggestions from Anthony for how to bathe a cat without getting scratched—and more importantly, without stressing your pet too much.\nRecruit an understanding friend to help.\nOne of you can hold the cat while the other bathes her.\nMinimize running water.\nThe actual sound causes many cats to panic, and the last thing you want is to grab a slippery, sharp cat. If you don't have a gentle sprayer, use a non-breakable cup for rinsing.\nFill a sink with a few inches of warm water.\nGet the dirty parts of the cat wet and then lather with shampoo. Wash only the parts you need to, then rinse thoroughly. Use a washcloth around the face and ears.\nFollow shampoo with a creme rinse.\nThis is important because you don't want to strip her natural oils away and dry out her skin. Let it sit for up to five minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.\nTowel dry as much as possible.\nThen, remove loose hair with a fine-toothed comb. Your cat will be grooming for a long time after her bath, so getting rid of excess fur helps minimize hairballs.\nIn the event your cat won't tolerate water under any circumstances, you might want to try dry cat shampoos or professional groomers recommended by a veterinarian.","attrs_markdown":"\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/cat-grooming\/bathe-a-cat#main)\n\n[Daily Paws](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/)\n\n- Please fill out this field.\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/cat-grooming\/bathe-a-cat)\n- [Sweepstakes](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/sweepstakes)\n\nPlease fill out this field.\n\n- [Dogs & Puppies](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/dogs-puppies)\n  Dogs & Puppies\n  \n  - [Dog Breeds](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/dogs-puppies\/dog-breeds)\n  - [Common Dog Conditions & Treatments](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/dogs-puppies\/health-care\/dog-conditions)\n  - [Dog Training](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/dogs-puppies\/dog-training)\n  - 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[Pet-Friendly Home](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/living-with-pets\/pet-friendly-home)\n  - [Pet Costs](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/living-with-pets\/pet-costs)\n  - [Holidays & Celebrations](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/living-with-pets\/holidays)\n  - [Traveling with Pets](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/living-with-pets\/pet-travel)\n  - [End-of-Life Pet Care](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/living-with-pets\/end-of-life-care)\n  - [DIY Project Ideas](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/living-with-pets\/diy)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/living-with-pets)\n- [Pet News & Entertainment](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/pet-news-entertainment)\n  - [Pet News](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/pet-news-entertainment\/pet-news)\n  - [Adoption & Rescue Stories](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/pet-news-entertainment\/adoption-stories)\n  - [Unlikely Friendships](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/pet-news-entertainment\/unlikely-friendships)\n  - [Feel-Good Stories](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/pet-news-entertainment\/feel-good-stories)\n  - [Animal Advocacy](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/pet-news-entertainment\/animal-advocacy)\n  - [Hero Animals](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/pet-news-entertainment\/hero-animals)\n  - [Pet Food & Product Recalls](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/pet-news-entertainment\/food-product-recalls)\n  - [Dog Shows & Competitions](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/pet-news-entertainment\/dog-shows)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/pet-news-entertainment)\n- [Pet Gear & Apparel](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/gear-apparel)\n  - [Dog Supplies](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/gear-apparel\/dog-supplies)\n  - [Dog Toys](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/gear-apparel\/dog-supplies\/dog-toys)\n  - [Pet Cleaning Supplies](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/gear-apparel\/cleaning-supplies)\n  - [Pet Gifts](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/gear-apparel\/pet-gifts)\n  - [Cat Supplies](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/gear-apparel\/cat-supplies)\n  - [Carriers & Travel Gear](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/gear-apparel\/travel-gear)\n  - [Pet Tech](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/gear-apparel\/pet-tech)\n  - [Training & Behavior Products](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/gear-apparel\/training-products)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/gear-apparel)\n\n[About Us](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/about-daily-paws-7105242)\n\n# How to Bathe a Cat or Kitten Without Getting Scratched\nBy\n\n[Tracey L. Kelley](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/author\/tracey-l-kelley)\n\n![Tracey L. Kelley headshot]()\n\n![Tracey L. Kelley headshot](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/thmb\/e2hf38GgWCQi1H8dZMXkIl-MEfU=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/TK-headshot-dca429224052414a8f7405a9f66233de.jpg)\n\n[Tracey L. Kelley](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/author\/tracey-l-kelley)\n\nAfter loving 19 cats, 11 dogs, and a canary, Tracey married someone allergic to all those creatures. Thankfully, she receives oodles of animal goodness sharing stories on Daily Paws! When not traveling, teaching yoga, or doing voiceover projects, she's an editorial strategist and developer for print, digital, and multimedia platforms.\n\n[Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/about-daily-paws-7105242#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n\nUpdated on August 9, 2024\n\nHow to Bathe a Cat or Kitten Without Getting Scratched\n\n1:03\n\nThere are certainly dozens of other chores you'd rather tackle than giving your cat a bath—and without a doubt, your kitty doesn't welcome the idea either! But when you need to provide the best care for your adorable fuzzball, we have helpful tips to make bath time easier.\n\nFirst, choose a calm moment when your cat is relaxed, and gently introduce them to water to minimize stress. Use lukewarm water and a cat-specific shampoo, and keep the experience brief and comforting to ensure your cat feels safe. Plus, remember that an understanding, cat-loving friend can help make the process easier.\n\n## Do Cats Really Need to Be Bathed?\nThe good news is, most cast breeds don't require regular bathing says Tarina L. Anthony, DVM, a longtime practitioner of feline-exclusive medicine, and owner and medical director of [Aurora Cat Hospital and Hotel](http:\/\/www.auroracathospital.com\/) in Aurora, Colorado. \"Many people ask me when they get a new cat how often they should be bathing them,\" she says. By nature, cats are fastidious creatures and able to keep themselves clean.\"\n\n![cat in towel after bath]()\n\n![cat in towel after bath](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/thmb\/o8aGACpupZo4_QD2Jkd4Ko3u7OM=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/cat-bath-661464182-2000-ec877d14b4e14d74b89ac5e4609a3f91.jpg)\n\nWaitforlight \/ Getty\n\nA cat's rough tongue is covered with tiny curved barbs called *papillae* that transfer saliva across her fur. This is like a mini spa treatment, as each lap spreads healthy natural oils across her coat and skin. Those little spines work as natural detanglers, too, which is why you'll often see your kitty licking and biting at fur clumps until she smooths everything out.\n\nAlthough a cat spends about 30% of her time on daily self-care*—*[between naps, of course\\!](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/behavior\/common-cat-behaviors\/why-do-cats-sleep-so-much)—Anthony says it's more important to keep your cat groomed than to worry about bathing them, as regular brushing and combing helps reveal health problems more quickly. \"Many times, [skin conditions](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/health-care\/cat-conditions\/common-skin-conditions-in-cats-and-how-to-recognize-them) are signs of underlying metabolic or gastrointestinal disease, so if your cat's hair coat has changed, talk to your vet,\" she says.\n\nRoutine salon time with your kitty also helps reduce loose hair and prevent [hairballs](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/cat-grooming\/cat-hairball). Try using a metal comb to gently loosen matted areas, especially under her belly and along her legs. Follow with a rubber or bristle brush to remove dirt and loose hair all over her body. Groom short-haired cats about once a week, and [long-haired beauties](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/cat-breeds\/long-haired-cat-breeds-to-swoon-over) every day.\n\n## How Often Should You Bathe a Cat?\nCertain circumstances require you to give a cat or kitten a bath. Anthony advises bathing a cat if she's gotten into something she shouldn't ingest, such as motor oil, [antifreeze](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/health-care\/cat-poisoning-toxins\/antifreeze-poisoning-in-cats), gasoline, or paint. Basically, anything that gets on her fur that could be harmful needs to be washed off immediately.\n\nAnthony also notes some felines develop skin conditions that are soothed with bathing, such as seborrhea, a disorder that causes flakey, red, and itchy skin. Your veterinarian might also recommend medicated baths for treating other health conditions, such as severe [flea allergies](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/health-care\/feline-parasites\/how-to-get-rid-of-fleas-on-cats) or [ringworm](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/health-care\/feline-parasites\/ringworm-in-cats-what-to-do-and-how-to-avoid-them).\n\nOlder cats with arthritis or who are obese might need you to bathe them more frequently, as they're not always able to groom well and often have trouble reaching certain spots and preventing odors. As much as cats hate water, they dislike being unkempt even more.\n\nMany long-haired breeds, such as Maine coons, Persians, and Himalayans, benefit from a bath every couple of months or so to minimize fur matting. Some short-haired cats with dense coats might also need an occasional bath.\n\n[Hairless breeds](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/living-with-pets\/pet-compatibility\/hairless-cat-breeds), like the Sphynx, probably need more frequent bathing than furred felines, as they have an oily residue that gets on fabrics when they're particularly grimy. If you don't want to bathe your hairless cat weekly, Anthony suggests cat-specific grooming or baby wipes for regular upkeep.\n\nConsult your veterinarian about your pet's particular needs to establish the best routine.\n\n## How to Bathe a Cat Who Hates Water\nWhile many wild beasts such as jaguars, leopards, lions, and tigers swim quite well and laze in rivers to cool off, few domesticated cats enjoy being in the water. Drinking from a faucet or curling up in a dry sink for a cozy snooze are her choices. Baths are not.\n\nAnthony says there are many theories about why most cats dislike water. \"One is they don't like their fur weighed down—imagine wearing a wet blanket. Another is water changes their natural scent,\" she says. \"Or perhaps it's because they don't have control of the situation. Cats are tiny control freaks in fur coats.\"\n\nSo when a bath is inevitable, staying calm will help you both. First, get prepped to:\n\n- Choose a time after she's eaten or played, as she'll be more mellow.\n- If possible, [trim her nails](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/cat-grooming\/how-to-trim-cats-nails) *before* the bath, filing the ends as well after they're clipped to dull them.\n- Put all your bath supplies within easy reach, including treats to reward her with afterward. Some cat lovers even warm a towel in the dryer and use aromatherapy so the experience is more comforting. Make sure to use shampoo and creme rinse specifically formulated for cats.\n- Plan for a short grooming session to make handling her fur much easier.\n### Helpful Tips\nHere are additional suggestions from Anthony for how to bathe a cat without getting scratched—and more importantly, without stressing your pet too much.\n\n1. **Recruit an understanding friend to help.** One of you can hold the cat while the other bathes her.\n2. **Minimize running water.** The actual sound causes many cats to panic, and the last thing you want is to grab a slippery, sharp cat. If you don't have a gentle sprayer, use a non-breakable cup for rinsing.\n3. **Fill a sink with a few inches of warm water.** Get the dirty parts of the cat wet and then lather with shampoo. Wash only the parts you need to, then rinse thoroughly. Use a washcloth around the face and ears.\n4. **Follow shampoo with a creme rinse.** This is important because you don't want to strip her natural oils away and dry out her skin. Let it sit for up to five minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.\n5. **Towel dry as much as possible.** Then, remove loose hair with a fine-toothed comb. Your cat will be grooming for a long time after her bath, so getting rid of excess fur helps minimize hairballs.\n\nIn the event your cat won't tolerate water under any circumstances, you might want to try dry cat shampoos or professional groomers recommended by a veterinarian.\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for your feedback\\!\n\nTell us why\\!\n\nOther\n\nRead More:\n\n- [Cats & Kittens](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens)\n- [Cat Grooming](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/cat-grooming)\n\n## Related Articles\n[![cat having teeth brushed by woman]() ![cat having teeth brushed by woman](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/thmb\/xuTwsPfSJaP9ojUvkNaYw7pzprk=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\):focal\\(999x0:1001x2\\)\/woman-brushing-cat-teeth-1192741520-2000-401ecfb514bd43b59f61b5242b0daa80.jpg) How to Make Brushing Your Cat's Teeth a Hassle-Free Experience](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/cat-grooming\/brushing-cats-teeth)\n\n[![kitten clawing at woman's jeans]() ![kitten clawing at woman's jeans](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/thmb\/SGHJz82sUUANotL3AEoSO7k_Xpo=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\):focal\\(1019x798:1021x800\\)\/cat-claws-leg-997091668-2000-f2e59eadbf93424c96dab0798494652b.jpg) Want to Declaw Your Cat? 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But when you need to provide the best care for your adorable fuzzball, we have helpful tips to make bath time easier.\n\nFirst, choose a calm moment when your cat is relaxed, and gently introduce them to water to minimize stress. Use lukewarm water and a cat-specific shampoo, and keep the experience brief and comforting to ensure your cat feels safe. Plus, remember that an understanding, cat-loving friend can help make the process easier.\n\n## Do Cats Really Need to Be Bathed?\nThe good news is, most cast breeds don't require regular bathing says Tarina L. Anthony, DVM, a longtime practitioner of feline-exclusive medicine, and owner and medical director of [Aurora Cat Hospital and Hotel](http:\/\/www.auroracathospital.com\/) in Aurora, Colorado. \"Many people ask me when they get a new cat how often they should be bathing them,\" she says. By nature, cats are fastidious creatures and able to keep themselves clean.\"\n\nWaitforlight \/ Getty\n\nA cat's rough tongue is covered with tiny curved barbs called *papillae* that transfer saliva across her fur. This is like a mini spa treatment, as each lap spreads healthy natural oils across her coat and skin. Those little spines work as natural detanglers, too, which is why you'll often see your kitty licking and biting at fur clumps until she smooths everything out.\n\nAlthough a cat spends about 30% of her time on daily self-care*—*[between naps, of course\\!](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/behavior\/common-cat-behaviors\/why-do-cats-sleep-so-much)—Anthony says it's more important to keep your cat groomed than to worry about bathing them, as regular brushing and combing helps reveal health problems more quickly. \"Many times, [skin conditions](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/health-care\/cat-conditions\/common-skin-conditions-in-cats-and-how-to-recognize-them) are signs of underlying metabolic or gastrointestinal disease, so if your cat's hair coat has changed, talk to your vet,\" she says.\n\nRoutine salon time with your kitty also helps reduce loose hair and prevent [hairballs](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/cat-grooming\/cat-hairball). Try using a metal comb to gently loosen matted areas, especially under her belly and along her legs. Follow with a rubber or bristle brush to remove dirt and loose hair all over her body. Groom short-haired cats about once a week, and [long-haired beauties](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/cat-breeds\/long-haired-cat-breeds-to-swoon-over) every day.\n\n## How Often Should You Bathe a Cat?\nCertain circumstances require you to give a cat or kitten a bath. Anthony advises bathing a cat if she's gotten into something she shouldn't ingest, such as motor oil, [antifreeze](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/health-care\/cat-poisoning-toxins\/antifreeze-poisoning-in-cats), gasoline, or paint. Basically, anything that gets on her fur that could be harmful needs to be washed off immediately.\n\nAnthony also notes some felines develop skin conditions that are soothed with bathing, such as seborrhea, a disorder that causes flakey, red, and itchy skin. Your veterinarian might also recommend medicated baths for treating other health conditions, such as severe [flea allergies](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/health-care\/feline-parasites\/how-to-get-rid-of-fleas-on-cats) or [ringworm](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/health-care\/feline-parasites\/ringworm-in-cats-what-to-do-and-how-to-avoid-them).\n\nOlder cats with arthritis or who are obese might need you to bathe them more frequently, as they're not always able to groom well and often have trouble reaching certain spots and preventing odors. As much as cats hate water, they dislike being unkempt even more.\n\nMany long-haired breeds, such as Maine coons, Persians, and Himalayans, benefit from a bath every couple of months or so to minimize fur matting. Some short-haired cats with dense coats might also need an occasional bath.\n\n[Hairless breeds](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/living-with-pets\/pet-compatibility\/hairless-cat-breeds), like the Sphynx, probably need more frequent bathing than furred felines, as they have an oily residue that gets on fabrics when they're particularly grimy. If you don't want to bathe your hairless cat weekly, Anthony suggests cat-specific grooming or baby wipes for regular upkeep.\n\nConsult your veterinarian about your pet's particular needs to establish the best routine.\n\n## How to Bathe a Cat Who Hates Water\nWhile many wild beasts such as jaguars, leopards, lions, and tigers swim quite well and laze in rivers to cool off, few domesticated cats enjoy being in the water. Drinking from a faucet or curling up in a dry sink for a cozy snooze are her choices. Baths are not.\n\nAnthony says there are many theories about why most cats dislike water. \"One is they don't like their fur weighed down—imagine wearing a wet blanket. Another is water changes their natural scent,\" she says. \"Or perhaps it's because they don't have control of the situation. Cats are tiny control freaks in fur coats.\"\n\nSo when a bath is inevitable, staying calm will help you both. First, get prepped to:\n\n- Choose a time after she's eaten or played, as she'll be more mellow.\n- If possible, [trim her nails](https:\/\/www.dailypaws.com\/cats-kittens\/cat-grooming\/how-to-trim-cats-nails) *before* the bath, filing the ends as well after they're clipped to dull them.\n- Put all your bath supplies within easy reach, including treats to reward her with afterward. Some cat lovers even warm a towel in the dryer and use aromatherapy so the experience is more comforting. Make sure to use shampoo and creme rinse specifically formulated for cats.\n- Plan for a short grooming session to make handling her fur much easier.\n### Helpful Tips\nHere are additional suggestions from Anthony for how to bathe a cat without getting scratched—and more importantly, without stressing your pet too much.\n\n1. **Recruit an understanding friend to help.** One of you can hold the cat while the other bathes her.\n2. **Minimize running water.** The actual sound causes many cats to panic, and the last thing you want is to grab a slippery, sharp cat. If you don't have a gentle sprayer, use a non-breakable cup for rinsing.\n3. **Fill a sink with a few inches of warm water.** Get the dirty parts of the cat wet and then lather with shampoo. Wash only the parts you need to, then rinse thoroughly. Use a washcloth around the face and ears.\n4. **Follow shampoo with a creme rinse.** This is important because you don't want to strip her natural oils away and dry out her skin. Let it sit for up to five minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.\n5. **Towel dry as much as possible.** Then, remove loose hair with a fine-toothed comb. Your cat will be grooming for a long time after her bath, so getting rid of excess fur helps minimize hairballs.\n\nIn the event your cat won't tolerate water under any circumstances, you might want to try dry cat shampoos or professional groomers recommended by a veterinarian.","meta_canonical":null,"ml_categories_json":"{\"\/Pets_and_Animals\":995,\"\/Pets_and_Animals\/Pets\":992,\"\/Pets_and_Animals\/Pets\/Cats\":992}","ml_types_json":"{\"\/Article\":998,\"\/Article\/How_to\":984}","ml_intent_types_json":"{\"Informational\":999}","meta_language":"en","attrs_author":null,"attrs_publish_time":0,"attrs_original_publish_time":1598349018,"attrs_is_republished":0,"attrs_nr_words":"1732","attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words":"1055","body_ext_links_number":17,"body_int_links_number":79,"meta_nofollow":0,"meta_noarchive":1,"props_was_rendered":0,"src_redirect":"","download_time_msec":221,"download_ttfb_msec":178,"download_size":50843}

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How to Bathe a Cat or Kitten Without Getting Scratched

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Cats are great groomers, so you'll rarely need to give your cat a bath. But if you do need to, these tips can help, even if she hates the water.

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There are certainly dozens of other chores you'd rather tackle than giving your cat a bath—and without a doubt, your kitty doesn't welcome the idea either! But when you need to provide the best care for your adorable fuzzball, we have helpful tips to make bath time easier. First, choose a calm moment when your cat is relaxed, and gently introduce them to water to minimize stress. Use lukewarm water and a cat-specific shampoo, and keep the experience brief and comforting to ensure your cat feels safe. Plus, remember that an understanding, cat-loving friend can help make the process easier. Do Cats Really Need to Be Bathed? The good news is, most cast breeds don't require regular bathing says Tarina L. Anthony, DVM, a longtime practitioner of feline-exclusive medicine, and owner and medical director of Aurora Cat Hospital and Hotel in Aurora, Colorado. "Many people ask me when they get a new cat how often they should be bathing them," she says. By nature, cats are fastidious creatures and able to keep themselves clean." Waitforlight / Getty A cat's rough tongue is covered with tiny curved barbs called papillae that transfer saliva across her fur. This is like a mini spa treatment, as each lap spreads healthy natural oils across her coat and skin. Those little spines work as natural detanglers, too, which is why you'll often see your kitty licking and biting at fur clumps until she smooths everything out. Although a cat spends about 30% of her time on daily self-care — between naps, of course! —Anthony says it's more important to keep your cat groomed than to worry about bathing them, as regular brushing and combing helps reveal health problems more quickly. "Many times, skin conditions are signs of underlying metabolic or gastrointestinal disease, so if your cat's hair coat has changed, talk to your vet," she says. Routine salon time with your kitty also helps reduce loose hair and prevent hairballs . Try using a metal comb to gently loosen matted areas, especially under her belly and along her legs. Follow with a rubber or bristle brush to remove dirt and loose hair all over her body. Groom short-haired cats about once a week, and long-haired beauties every day. How Often Should You Bathe a Cat? Certain circumstances require you to give a cat or kitten a bath. Anthony advises bathing a cat if she's gotten into something she shouldn't ingest, such as motor oil, antifreeze , gasoline, or paint. Basically, anything that gets on her fur that could be harmful needs to be washed off immediately. Anthony also notes some felines develop skin conditions that are soothed with bathing, such as seborrhea, a disorder that causes flakey, red, and itchy skin. Your veterinarian might also recommend medicated baths for treating other health conditions, such as severe flea allergies or ringworm . Older cats with arthritis or who are obese might need you to bathe them more frequently, as they're not always able to groom well and often have trouble reaching certain spots and preventing odors. As much as cats hate water, they dislike being unkempt even more. Many long-haired breeds, such as Maine coons, Persians, and Himalayans, benefit from a bath every couple of months or so to minimize fur matting. Some short-haired cats with dense coats might also need an occasional bath. Hairless breeds , like the Sphynx, probably need more frequent bathing than furred felines, as they have an oily residue that gets on fabrics when they're particularly grimy. If you don't want to bathe your hairless cat weekly, Anthony suggests cat-specific grooming or baby wipes for regular upkeep. Consult your veterinarian about your pet's particular needs to establish the best routine. How to Bathe a Cat Who Hates Water While many wild beasts such as jaguars, leopards, lions, and tigers swim quite well and laze in rivers to cool off, few domesticated cats enjoy being in the water. Drinking from a faucet or curling up in a dry sink for a cozy snooze are her choices. Baths are not. Anthony says there are many theories about why most cats dislike water. "One is they don't like their fur weighed down—imagine wearing a wet blanket. Another is water changes their natural scent," she says. "Or perhaps it's because they don't have control of the situation. Cats are tiny control freaks in fur coats." So when a bath is inevitable, staying calm will help you both. First, get prepped to: Choose a time after she's eaten or played, as she'll be more mellow. If possible, trim her nails before the bath, filing the ends as well after they're clipped to dull them. Put all your bath supplies within easy reach, including treats to reward her with afterward. Some cat lovers even warm a towel in the dryer and use aromatherapy so the experience is more comforting. Make sure to use shampoo and creme rinse specifically formulated for cats. Plan for a short grooming session to make handling her fur much easier. Helpful Tips Here are additional suggestions from Anthony for how to bathe a cat without getting scratched—and more importantly, without stressing your pet too much. Recruit an understanding friend to help. One of you can hold the cat while the other bathes her. Minimize running water. The actual sound causes many cats to panic, and the last thing you want is to grab a slippery, sharp cat. If you don't have a gentle sprayer, use a non-breakable cup for rinsing. Fill a sink with a few inches of warm water. Get the dirty parts of the cat wet and then lather with shampoo. Wash only the parts you need to, then rinse thoroughly. Use a washcloth around the face and ears. Follow shampoo with a creme rinse. This is important because you don't want to strip her natural oils away and dry out her skin. Let it sit for up to five minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. Towel dry as much as possible. Then, remove loose hair with a fine-toothed comb. Your cat will be grooming for a long time after her bath, so getting rid of excess fur helps minimize hairballs. In the event your cat won't tolerate water under any circumstances, you might want to try dry cat shampoos or professional groomers recommended by a veterinarian.

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Kelley](https://www.dailypaws.com/author/tracey-l-kelley) ![Tracey L. Kelley headshot]() ![Tracey L. Kelley headshot](https://www.dailypaws.com/thmb/e2hf38GgWCQi1H8dZMXkIl-MEfU=/200x200/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/TK-headshot-dca429224052414a8f7405a9f66233de.jpg) [Tracey L. Kelley](https://www.dailypaws.com/author/tracey-l-kelley) After loving 19 cats, 11 dogs, and a canary, Tracey married someone allergic to all those creatures. Thankfully, she receives oodles of animal goodness sharing stories on Daily Paws! When not traveling, teaching yoga, or doing voiceover projects, she's an editorial strategist and developer for print, digital, and multimedia platforms. [Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines](https://www.dailypaws.com/about-daily-paws-7105242#toc-editorial-guidelines) Updated on August 9, 2024 How to Bathe a Cat or Kitten Without Getting Scratched 1:03 There are certainly dozens of other chores you'd rather tackle than giving your cat a bath—and without a doubt, your kitty doesn't welcome the idea either! But when you need to provide the best care for your adorable fuzzball, we have helpful tips to make bath time easier. First, choose a calm moment when your cat is relaxed, and gently introduce them to water to minimize stress. Use lukewarm water and a cat-specific shampoo, and keep the experience brief and comforting to ensure your cat feels safe. Plus, remember that an understanding, cat-loving friend can help make the process easier. ## Do Cats Really Need to Be Bathed? The good news is, most cast breeds don't require regular bathing says Tarina L. Anthony, DVM, a longtime practitioner of feline-exclusive medicine, and owner and medical director of [Aurora Cat Hospital and Hotel](http://www.auroracathospital.com/) in Aurora, Colorado. "Many people ask me when they get a new cat how often they should be bathing them," she says. By nature, cats are fastidious creatures and able to keep themselves clean." ![cat in towel after bath]() ![cat in towel after bath](https://www.dailypaws.com/thmb/o8aGACpupZo4_QD2Jkd4Ko3u7OM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/cat-bath-661464182-2000-ec877d14b4e14d74b89ac5e4609a3f91.jpg) Waitforlight / Getty A cat's rough tongue is covered with tiny curved barbs called *papillae* that transfer saliva across her fur. This is like a mini spa treatment, as each lap spreads healthy natural oils across her coat and skin. Those little spines work as natural detanglers, too, which is why you'll often see your kitty licking and biting at fur clumps until she smooths everything out. Although a cat spends about 30% of her time on daily self-care*—*[between naps, of course\!](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/behavior/common-cat-behaviors/why-do-cats-sleep-so-much)—Anthony says it's more important to keep your cat groomed than to worry about bathing them, as regular brushing and combing helps reveal health problems more quickly. "Many times, [skin conditions](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/health-care/cat-conditions/common-skin-conditions-in-cats-and-how-to-recognize-them) are signs of underlying metabolic or gastrointestinal disease, so if your cat's hair coat has changed, talk to your vet," she says. Routine salon time with your kitty also helps reduce loose hair and prevent [hairballs](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-grooming/cat-hairball). Try using a metal comb to gently loosen matted areas, especially under her belly and along her legs. Follow with a rubber or bristle brush to remove dirt and loose hair all over her body. Groom short-haired cats about once a week, and [long-haired beauties](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/long-haired-cat-breeds-to-swoon-over) every day. ## How Often Should You Bathe a Cat? Certain circumstances require you to give a cat or kitten a bath. Anthony advises bathing a cat if she's gotten into something she shouldn't ingest, such as motor oil, [antifreeze](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/health-care/cat-poisoning-toxins/antifreeze-poisoning-in-cats), gasoline, or paint. Basically, anything that gets on her fur that could be harmful needs to be washed off immediately. Anthony also notes some felines develop skin conditions that are soothed with bathing, such as seborrhea, a disorder that causes flakey, red, and itchy skin. Your veterinarian might also recommend medicated baths for treating other health conditions, such as severe [flea allergies](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/health-care/feline-parasites/how-to-get-rid-of-fleas-on-cats) or [ringworm](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/health-care/feline-parasites/ringworm-in-cats-what-to-do-and-how-to-avoid-them). Older cats with arthritis or who are obese might need you to bathe them more frequently, as they're not always able to groom well and often have trouble reaching certain spots and preventing odors. As much as cats hate water, they dislike being unkempt even more. Many long-haired breeds, such as Maine coons, Persians, and Himalayans, benefit from a bath every couple of months or so to minimize fur matting. Some short-haired cats with dense coats might also need an occasional bath. [Hairless breeds](https://www.dailypaws.com/living-with-pets/pet-compatibility/hairless-cat-breeds), like the Sphynx, probably need more frequent bathing than furred felines, as they have an oily residue that gets on fabrics when they're particularly grimy. If you don't want to bathe your hairless cat weekly, Anthony suggests cat-specific grooming or baby wipes for regular upkeep. Consult your veterinarian about your pet's particular needs to establish the best routine. ## How to Bathe a Cat Who Hates Water While many wild beasts such as jaguars, leopards, lions, and tigers swim quite well and laze in rivers to cool off, few domesticated cats enjoy being in the water. Drinking from a faucet or curling up in a dry sink for a cozy snooze are her choices. Baths are not. Anthony says there are many theories about why most cats dislike water. "One is they don't like their fur weighed down—imagine wearing a wet blanket. Another is water changes their natural scent," she says. "Or perhaps it's because they don't have control of the situation. Cats are tiny control freaks in fur coats." So when a bath is inevitable, staying calm will help you both. First, get prepped to: - Choose a time after she's eaten or played, as she'll be more mellow. - If possible, [trim her nails](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-grooming/how-to-trim-cats-nails) *before* the bath, filing the ends as well after they're clipped to dull them. - Put all your bath supplies within easy reach, including treats to reward her with afterward. Some cat lovers even warm a towel in the dryer and use aromatherapy so the experience is more comforting. Make sure to use shampoo and creme rinse specifically formulated for cats. - Plan for a short grooming session to make handling her fur much easier. ### Helpful Tips Here are additional suggestions from Anthony for how to bathe a cat without getting scratched—and more importantly, without stressing your pet too much. 1. **Recruit an understanding friend to help.** One of you can hold the cat while the other bathes her. 2. **Minimize running water.** The actual sound causes many cats to panic, and the last thing you want is to grab a slippery, sharp cat. If you don't have a gentle sprayer, use a non-breakable cup for rinsing. 3. **Fill a sink with a few inches of warm water.** Get the dirty parts of the cat wet and then lather with shampoo. Wash only the parts you need to, then rinse thoroughly. Use a washcloth around the face and ears. 4. **Follow shampoo with a creme rinse.** This is important because you don't want to strip her natural oils away and dry out her skin. Let it sit for up to five minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. 5. **Towel dry as much as possible.** Then, remove loose hair with a fine-toothed comb. Your cat will be grooming for a long time after her bath, so getting rid of excess fur helps minimize hairballs. In the event your cat won't tolerate water under any circumstances, you might want to try dry cat shampoos or professional groomers recommended by a veterinarian. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! Tell us why\! Other Read More: - [Cats & Kittens](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens) - [Cat Grooming](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-grooming) ## Related Articles [![cat having teeth brushed by woman]() ![cat having teeth brushed by woman](https://www.dailypaws.com/thmb/xuTwsPfSJaP9ojUvkNaYw7pzprk=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\):focal\(999x0:1001x2\)/woman-brushing-cat-teeth-1192741520-2000-401ecfb514bd43b59f61b5242b0daa80.jpg) How to Make Brushing Your Cat's Teeth a Hassle-Free Experience](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-grooming/brushing-cats-teeth) [![kitten clawing at woman's jeans]() ![kitten clawing at woman's jeans](https://www.dailypaws.com/thmb/SGHJz82sUUANotL3AEoSO7k_Xpo=/282x188/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\):focal\(1019x798:1021x800\)/cat-claws-leg-997091668-2000-f2e59eadbf93424c96dab0798494652b.jpg) Want to Declaw Your Cat? 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There are certainly dozens of other chores you'd rather tackle than giving your cat a bath—and without a doubt, your kitty doesn't welcome the idea either! But when you need to provide the best care for your adorable fuzzball, we have helpful tips to make bath time easier. First, choose a calm moment when your cat is relaxed, and gently introduce them to water to minimize stress. Use lukewarm water and a cat-specific shampoo, and keep the experience brief and comforting to ensure your cat feels safe. Plus, remember that an understanding, cat-loving friend can help make the process easier. ## Do Cats Really Need to Be Bathed? The good news is, most cast breeds don't require regular bathing says Tarina L. Anthony, DVM, a longtime practitioner of feline-exclusive medicine, and owner and medical director of [Aurora Cat Hospital and Hotel](http://www.auroracathospital.com/) in Aurora, Colorado. "Many people ask me when they get a new cat how often they should be bathing them," she says. By nature, cats are fastidious creatures and able to keep themselves clean." Waitforlight / Getty A cat's rough tongue is covered with tiny curved barbs called *papillae* that transfer saliva across her fur. This is like a mini spa treatment, as each lap spreads healthy natural oils across her coat and skin. Those little spines work as natural detanglers, too, which is why you'll often see your kitty licking and biting at fur clumps until she smooths everything out. Although a cat spends about 30% of her time on daily self-care*—*[between naps, of course\!](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/behavior/common-cat-behaviors/why-do-cats-sleep-so-much)—Anthony says it's more important to keep your cat groomed than to worry about bathing them, as regular brushing and combing helps reveal health problems more quickly. "Many times, [skin conditions](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/health-care/cat-conditions/common-skin-conditions-in-cats-and-how-to-recognize-them) are signs of underlying metabolic or gastrointestinal disease, so if your cat's hair coat has changed, talk to your vet," she says. Routine salon time with your kitty also helps reduce loose hair and prevent [hairballs](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-grooming/cat-hairball). Try using a metal comb to gently loosen matted areas, especially under her belly and along her legs. Follow with a rubber or bristle brush to remove dirt and loose hair all over her body. Groom short-haired cats about once a week, and [long-haired beauties](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/long-haired-cat-breeds-to-swoon-over) every day. ## How Often Should You Bathe a Cat? Certain circumstances require you to give a cat or kitten a bath. Anthony advises bathing a cat if she's gotten into something she shouldn't ingest, such as motor oil, [antifreeze](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/health-care/cat-poisoning-toxins/antifreeze-poisoning-in-cats), gasoline, or paint. Basically, anything that gets on her fur that could be harmful needs to be washed off immediately. Anthony also notes some felines develop skin conditions that are soothed with bathing, such as seborrhea, a disorder that causes flakey, red, and itchy skin. Your veterinarian might also recommend medicated baths for treating other health conditions, such as severe [flea allergies](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/health-care/feline-parasites/how-to-get-rid-of-fleas-on-cats) or [ringworm](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/health-care/feline-parasites/ringworm-in-cats-what-to-do-and-how-to-avoid-them). Older cats with arthritis or who are obese might need you to bathe them more frequently, as they're not always able to groom well and often have trouble reaching certain spots and preventing odors. As much as cats hate water, they dislike being unkempt even more. Many long-haired breeds, such as Maine coons, Persians, and Himalayans, benefit from a bath every couple of months or so to minimize fur matting. Some short-haired cats with dense coats might also need an occasional bath. [Hairless breeds](https://www.dailypaws.com/living-with-pets/pet-compatibility/hairless-cat-breeds), like the Sphynx, probably need more frequent bathing than furred felines, as they have an oily residue that gets on fabrics when they're particularly grimy. If you don't want to bathe your hairless cat weekly, Anthony suggests cat-specific grooming or baby wipes for regular upkeep. Consult your veterinarian about your pet's particular needs to establish the best routine. ## How to Bathe a Cat Who Hates Water While many wild beasts such as jaguars, leopards, lions, and tigers swim quite well and laze in rivers to cool off, few domesticated cats enjoy being in the water. Drinking from a faucet or curling up in a dry sink for a cozy snooze are her choices. Baths are not. Anthony says there are many theories about why most cats dislike water. "One is they don't like their fur weighed down—imagine wearing a wet blanket. Another is water changes their natural scent," she says. "Or perhaps it's because they don't have control of the situation. Cats are tiny control freaks in fur coats." So when a bath is inevitable, staying calm will help you both. First, get prepped to: - Choose a time after she's eaten or played, as she'll be more mellow. - If possible, [trim her nails](https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-grooming/how-to-trim-cats-nails) *before* the bath, filing the ends as well after they're clipped to dull them. - Put all your bath supplies within easy reach, including treats to reward her with afterward. Some cat lovers even warm a towel in the dryer and use aromatherapy so the experience is more comforting. Make sure to use shampoo and creme rinse specifically formulated for cats. - Plan for a short grooming session to make handling her fur much easier. ### Helpful Tips Here are additional suggestions from Anthony for how to bathe a cat without getting scratched—and more importantly, without stressing your pet too much. 1. **Recruit an understanding friend to help.** One of you can hold the cat while the other bathes her. 2. **Minimize running water.** The actual sound causes many cats to panic, and the last thing you want is to grab a slippery, sharp cat. If you don't have a gentle sprayer, use a non-breakable cup for rinsing. 3. **Fill a sink with a few inches of warm water.** Get the dirty parts of the cat wet and then lather with shampoo. Wash only the parts you need to, then rinse thoroughly. Use a washcloth around the face and ears. 4. **Follow shampoo with a creme rinse.** This is important because you don't want to strip her natural oils away and dry out her skin. Let it sit for up to five minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. 5. **Towel dry as much as possible.** Then, remove loose hair with a fine-toothed comb. Your cat will be grooming for a long time after her bath, so getting rid of excess fur helps minimize hairballs. In the event your cat won't tolerate water under any circumstances, you might want to try dry cat shampoos or professional groomers recommended by a veterinarian.

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