The long-haired cat's luxurious coat looks great - but only if it is immaculately clean. Food leftovers, street dirt, fine litter can ruin your pet's appearance and even affect her health. You can tidy up your cat's coat with frequent brushing and periodic washing.
Preparation for water procedures
The cat does not need a daily or even weekly bath at all. Usually it is washed no more than once a month. More intense water treatments can irritate the skin of the animal, and the cat will develop dandruff. In addition, not all pets can easily tolerate washing.
It is most convenient to bathe a cat in a regular bathtub or shower tray. A baby plastic tub or a large basin is also suitable. The animal should be washed with warm water. A hot one will irritate the skin, and a cat that is too cold can catch a cold. Find a good shampoo. A regular remedy for human hair will not work - after it, the cat's hair will be clumpy and dull. Buy a special shampoo for long-haired cats - it takes into account all the features of a fine and soft coat.
Some cats need special cleaning products. For example, for white animals, there are bluish shampoos that remove the ugly yellow tint of the coat. It is also better to wash charcoal black and blue cats with special tint shampoos that enhance the dark color of the coat and hide the redness. This is especially important for cats that attend shows.
Comb the animal thoroughly before water treatment. Pay attention to the lush collar, long hair on the tail, belly and hind legs. Cut off the tangles if they show up. A manicure will not hurt either. Cut your claws with a pair of wire cutters to avoid accidental scratches.
Pour some warm water into the bath - it should only slightly cover the cat's paws. Dissolve a portion of the shampoo in a scoop to help distribute the detergent over the coat. Prepare some large terry towels in advance.
Let's start washing
Place the cat carefully in the bath, holding it by the withers. It is advisable to turn it with its head against the wall - this way the animal will not make attempts to jump out. Pour warm water from the shower over the cat, being careful not to get on the head. Moisten the coat thoroughly and then spread the diluted shampoo over it. Rub the skin with your hands, paying special attention to the contaminated areas. More shampoo can be added as needed. Wash your hair last. Be careful not to get water into your cat's ears and eyes. Rinse the animal with warm water.
Keep your cat warm. You need to wash it quickly and confidently, constantly talking to the cat in an affectionate voice. This will calm her down and give her courage.
Rinse the coat well and squeeze it lightly with your hands. Drain the tub and throw a large towel over the cat. Wrap it up and place it on the floor covered with another towel. Dry the cat thoroughly while squeezing out its fur. When the towel becomes damp, replace it with a dry one.
When the animal's fur is dry, the cat can be released. Give her a chance to come to her senses and start grooming. If the animal easily tolerates washing, you can dry it by combing it out with a thin comb. A very nervous cat is best left alone - she will lick and dry her coat on her own. Just make sure that there are no drafts in the apartment - a wet animal gets cold easily.
