Except for the tiger, the majority of cats on the planet detest water. Luckily, cats groom themselves, so most cat owners do not bathe their feline. However, there are benefits attached to bathing your cat. The following guide explains how you can get your kitty used to water as part of pet care.

Why Do Cats Dislike Getting Their Paws Wet?

Cats descend from felines that roamed dry, arid lands in Asia and Africa where swimming was not necessary to hunt. Even big cats such as leopards and lions have historically eschewed swimming because of water-dwelling predators such as crocodiles. However, biological exceptions do exist, including Asian fishing cats, which have webbed paws for catching aquatic prey.

Felines also abstain from swimming because it weighs down their fur and changes the scent of their coats. As meticulous groomers who are not generally fans of change, cats do not like anything that makes their coats smell differently.

How Can You Get Your Kitty Used to Water?

First instead of letting the loud faucet run. Also, line the tub with a towel since a slippery floor increases nervousness.

Pour lukewarm water over the cat’s fur while using a soothing tone. Wrap the animal up in a towel to dry the fur and continue to praise your little friend’s bravery.

Why Should You Encourage Water Acceptance in Your Feline?

Even though cats use their scratchy tongues for grooming, pet care sometimes requires water-based bathing. You may need to remove something from their coat, such as gasoline, motor oil, or antifreeze, that will make them sick.

Bath time also becomes necessary if your cat has fleas. You can choose from commercial flea baths or use a DIY method such as corn oil. The oil smothers the fleas and heals existing bites; however, you will have to wash the kitty with feline shampoo afterward to remove the product. Your veterinarian may recommend baths if your cat is overweight or arthritic and cannot bathe properly. Medicated baths can also be used as a pet care treatment for ringworm.

Discuss a grooming schedule with the veterinarians at Pearson Animal Clinic to help your cat stay healthy and happy. The pet care center has served the River Valley community in Arkansas for over 50 years, providing a full suite of services including spaying and neutering, vaccinating, and boarding. Call (479) 968-3535 today to book an appointment or (479) 477-0608 if you have an after-hours emergency. Visit the veterinarians online for service details and like the Facebook page for additional pet care tips.