Friday, April 25, 2014

Parker's Pointers


            Although it is not common, sometimes we cats need to be given a good bath once in a while.  Our curiosity may get the best of us and we can get dirty or possibly something sticky in our coat.  I wanted to take a moment to share some great tips for anyone giving my feline friends a bath.

            Please keep in mind the reason we do not like to get wet is because our fur does not insulate well when it is wet.  So, the best time to give us a bath would be during a mellow point in our day.  Perhaps a play session prior to our bath would help tire us out a little.

            Since water is not one of our most favorite things, some believe that a little trim of our nails would be in your best interest.  When we are surrounded by water, we have this uncontrollable urge to try and get away to hide in a warm, dry place.

            To ensure the best possible outcome of cleanliness, a good brushing to get out extra fur would be wonderful.  I know I really love a good brushing and this would also help me relax and remain calm before going into, what I believe to be, the watery torture.  If we are willing, cotton balls in our ears will also help to keep water out of our ears during the bath.

            A great way to keep a good handle on us while we’re in the tub or sink is to lie a rubber bath mat down.  This way, it will be more difficult for us to slide around while being washed.  All that is needed for us is three to four inches of lukewarm water.  Please avoid hot water as our skin is very sensitive.

            Now is the time where we have to get wet.  Use a hand-held spray house to wet us down, paying close attention not to get any water in our ears, eyes, or nose.  If you don’t have a spray house, anything plastic like a pitcher or cup will work great.

            Since our skin is so sensitive, try to avoid using human shampoo.  Use a mixture of one part cat shampoo to five parts water and gently massage from head to tail.  Then, rinse all the shampoo off making sure all suds are gone since this can irritate our skin if left on.

            You can use a wet washcloth to carefully wipe our faces.  Again, be careful not to get water into our eyes, ears, or nose. 

            Finally, wrap us in a large, comfy towel and keep us in a warm, non-stressful place to dry.  I’m not a big fan of a hair dryer, but if your feline companions don’t mind it you can use that on a low setting.

Now comes the best part… after such an experience I am rewarded for being a good boy with praise and my favorite treats!  I hope this inside scoop straight from the cat’s mouth will help make your next feline bathing experience a little smoother.
                                                                                                Pawsfully Yours,

                                                                                                                        Parker

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