Today's useless fact - How can I wash a cat that won't sit still in water?

Some cats benefit from an occasional bath; the first line of defense in keeping cats clean is to brush them regularly, at least once a week and more often if its fur tends to form mats.

Cats aren't normally dirty animals and most cats can go their whole life without ever needing a bath with the proper care. If your cat smells bad, has excessive dandruff, greasy fur, or bites and scratches at itself, it might be a symptom of an underlying illness. If you cat seems to lack energy (even if it's old), drinks a lot, changes in litterbox habits or the amount of urine it produces, soft stool, has a change in appetite or has lost weight in the last year, you should see your vet before proceeding to try to clean him up.

Some cats are so obese they are incapable of keeping themselves groomed (they can't reach); in this case, consult with your vet on the best way to help your cat lose weight. There are many tasty foods available. Until kitty is able to do it itself you should bathe it at least partially once a week (butt bath). Follow you vet's directions if skin has problems because of feces and urine scald.

Now that I've told you more than you ever wanted to know about how cats get dirty, here's how you give them a bath: Brush fur thoroughly first and remove any mats (brush out or clip out with clipper - work clipper gently under the mat until it is lifted off. Use a #10 blade. Avoid using a scissors as cats skin is very thin and can be impossible to see under a mat; even pro groomers occ. cut cats this way.

Use the mildest pet shampoo you can find. Puppy shampoo or hypoallergenic is good. dilute the shampoo in a squirt bottle 50/50. put a towel in the bottom of a large sink such as a laundry sink so kitty won't slip and get scared. make sure the drain stays open. Go slowly; try to keep it a soothing experience. Only use lukewarm water to wet and rinse. don't get its head wet. Massage the soap in gently, using as little as you can. Rinse thoroughly. The least little bit of soap will make it very itchy. Dry gently but thoroughly with a big towel and keep it in a warm place till dry; then brush fur out again. Have patience; go slow; remember jumping out of the tub a dozen times on its first dozen baths is normal behavior - don't get mad! Check out the links in our Cats category for more.