Few cats love water, and it might be a tedious task if yours doesn't. However, it’s not impossible. With the right tips, you can learn to give your cat a bath, even if it hates water.

When Should You Bathe Your Cat?

Your feline friend has barbs all over its tongue that lets it lick the dirt off its fur. Each lap of saliva also releases natural oils that help to coat its skin. And that’s how they manage to remain clean.
Seeing your cat do this might make you think it’s unnecessary to bathe it. But, some situations can cause your cat to need your help with cleaning:

• Arthritis: If your cat suffers from arthritis or any medical conditions, they may find it difficult to clean their fur.
• Dermatitis: Cats with diseases like dermatitis or allergies might require regular baths to relieve their symptoms.
• Contact with dirt, germs, or toxins: After they’ve come in contact with dirt, germs, or toxins, you don’t want your cat to lick it off their fur.
• Extremely warm weather: In extremely warm weather, cooling an outdoor cat with a bath can make them more comfortable, especially if their temperature goes above 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
• External parasites: If your cat has any parasites like fleas, ticks, or lice, bathing them from time to time with medication will help you get rid of the parasites.
• Long-furred cat breeds: Certain cat breeds, like the Persians, have long hair and fur. Keeping them clean will help to prevent their hair from tangling.

10 Tips to Bathe a Cat That Hates Water

Your cat is less likely to fight and scratch their way out of a bath if you use the following tips.

1. Prepare Your Cat

For a cat that hates water, your first task is to ensure they’re calm before you give them a bath. Choose a time when they’ll be mellow – like when they’ve just had a meal or played.
If you can, trim their nails to prevent potential scratches while bathing. You can also wear rubber gloves or long-sleeved clothing to protect yourself further.

Next, gradually get them used to being in a sink or tub. Put them in an empty one, give them treats, and bring them out. Do this a couple of times before bath time.

2. Gather Everything You’ll Need Before Starting

It's crucial to get everything ready before starting to bathe your cat. Leaving a cat that hates bath time to get something you forgot will probably make their escape easier and result in a wet, soapy cat running around as it pleases.
Keep every item close to the tub to make them accessible. Some of the things you’ll need include:

• A non-slip mat
• Several towels to help clean and dry them
• A shower or bath with a handheld showerhead or sink
• Special cat shampoo and conditioner (if you bathe them more than once a week)
• Brushes
• Bath gloves
• A cup, pitcher, or a hose

Along with having these items on hand, you could have a friend or family member assist you.

Also, it’s worth using a tearless, cat-friendly shampoo because using regular shampoo might hurt your cat's eyes. Shampoo used for humans is too drying and isn’t suitable for cats.

3. Remain Calm and Relaxed

The first thing you must do is maintain your composure and patience. Scolding and handling your cat roughly will simply upset them.
Cats can sense a negative mood or attitude. So, if you want your cat to comply and make the bathing process smooth, you’ll have to remain calm.

4. Start With a Dry Brush

Use a metal comb or dry brush to remove any knots or tangles. The brushing process is important, especially if your cat is a long-furred breed. This way, your cat won't get upset during the bath due to wet tangles.
A good brushing will also help to eliminate dirt and debris from your cat's coat. Matted fur can trap soapy residue on your cat's skin and cause itchy and flaky patches. Brushing can help you remove these matted furs from your cat with ease.

5. Put Your Cat in Lukewarm Water

Lukewarm water (around 100 °F) is perfect for bathing your cat.
Put a few inches of lukewarm water in the tub and lift your cat in slowly, paws first. While you do this, keep them calm by talking soothingly. You may have to take them out a couple of times if they start to fuss and repeat the process while encouraging them with treats.

6. Pour the Water Slowly

Once you get them to stay in the water, use a shower head to wet them slowly from their tail forward while avoiding their face. If you don’t have a showerhead, you can use a hose, pitcher, or cup.

7. Slowly and Gently Scrub Your Cat’s Body

You don’t want to be aggressive while scrubbing your cat’s body. Shampoo lightly and wash carefully. Make sure to protect your cat's ears and eyes to prevent contact with water.
Use a wet washcloth on your cat’s face rather than a brush or a sponge. Don’t use shampoo on your cat’s face, either. You can also use cat eye or ear wipes around their eyes and ears.

8. Stroke and Pet Your Cat from Time to Time

Your cat needs to sense support and encouragement to make the bathing process less dramatic. Petting and stroking while you bathe them will help put them at ease.
Singing or talking to your cat gently as you bathe them may also help them relax.

9. Dry Your Cat Properly and With Care

It’s important to dry your cat thoroughly with a large towel after rinsing it. Don’t use a hairdryer on your cat. For one, the load noise may scare it. But it might also be too hot, and you’ll only end up hurting them.

10. Give Treats

After bathing your cat, you can give them treats as a reward. Sometimes, what your feline friend needs is a little form of encouragement. Giving your cat healthy treats can make it anticipate bathing times more.

What If Your Cat Absolutely Won’t Accept a Bath?

It’s possible that after trying out all the tips above, your cat just won’t agree to a bath. If that happens, here are some alternatives:

• Brush your cat regularly: Brushing is the next best way to get dirt off your cat’s fur. If you brush them regularly, they may not need a bath. 
• Wash only soiled spots: Locate the areas that need cleaning and bathe these areas only. This way, you won’t have to get your cat completely wet.
• Use cat wipes: Cat wipes (not baby wipes) are also great for cleaning your cat. You can get them from most pet supply stores
• Get help: If you think your cat really needs a bath but won’t budge, get a professional groomer to do it for you.

Care for Your Cat Without Breaking the Bank

Helping your cat transition from water-hating to water-loving is a difficult task that might seem impossible. But once you have mastered the tips above, you can bathe your cat confidently.

If, at any point, you require professional help caring for your cat, you can contact your vet. And trips to the vet’s don’t have to cost much. With a Carefree Pet Plus with Pet Insurance membership, you can access the best care for your cat without breaking the bank.