🛁 The Purrfect Clean: Vol. 1Do Cats Need Baths? (Spoiler: Sometimes, Yes.)

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🛁 Do Cats Need Baths?

Because when your cat smells like their own litter box… it’s time.

Let’s be real—cats are famously self-cleaning. But sometimes, life gets messy.

Whether it’s mystery goo, allergy flare-ups, senior stiffness, or a particularly unfortunate garbage adventure, there are times when even the most elegant feline needs a little help from the human.

In this episode, we’re breaking down when you should bathe your cat, how to survive the experience with minimal bloodshed, and what products are actually safe for their sensitive skin.

Table of Contents

• 🛁 Do Cats Need Baths?

• 🚿 When to (Actually) Bathe a Cat

  • 😾 When NOT to Bathe a Cat

• 🧴 Cat Bathing 101: How to Keep Your Cat & Your Sa …

• 🙀 What If My Cat Absolutely Hates Water?

• 🗝️ Key Takeaways:

• 💡 Tele-Vet’s Tip:

  • 🐾 Share the Meow-ledge

• A word from our Sponsor ⭐️

• 🦴 Daily Bite 🦴

🚿 When to (Actually) Bathe a Cat

You should bathe your cat if:

• They’ve rolled in something gross or sticky

• They have fleas or a skin condition (vet-approved shampoo only!)

• They’re seniors, overweight, or sick and can’t groom themselves properly

• They have long hair and get matted easily

• You’re managing allergies or frequent dander

😾 When NOT to Bathe a Cat

• Just because they smell “a bit funky” (could be a sign of illness—ask your vet)

• As punishment (it’ll only ruin your relationship—and your towels)

• Too frequently (this strips oils and dries out their skin)

🧴 Cat Bathing 101: How to Keep Your Cat & Your Sanity

What you’ll need:

• A sink, shallow tub, or big basin

• 2 towels (one for drying, one for armor)

• Vet-approved cat shampoo (no human or dog stuff!)

• A rinse cup or detachable sprayer

• Treats, calm music, and a therapy session afterward (optional… kind of)

Steps:

1. Brush before the bath to remove loose hair & mats

2. Use lukewarm water—not too hot, not too cold

3. Gently wet the cat from the shoulders down (avoid the head!)

4. Lather with cat shampoo, avoiding the face

5. Rinse thoroughly—residue = itchy cat

6. Towel dry and retreat from claws if necessary

🙀 What If My Cat Absolutely Hates Water?

Some cats will NEVER be cool with a bath—and that’s okay.
Alternatives include:

• Waterless foam shampoos

• Pet wipes for cats (unscented, hypoallergenic)

• Professional groomers who specialize in cats

• A good brushing session to tide them over

🗝️ Key Takeaways:

✔️ Most cats don’t need regular baths—but some do
✔️ Never use dog or human shampoo on a cat
✔️ Prepare your supplies, move calmly, and protect your arms
✔️ Watch for signs your cat’s grooming habits have changed
✔️ When in doubt—consult your vet, not just your cat’s stink face

💡 Tele-Vet’s Tip:

If your cat suddenly stops grooming, smells odd, or their coat looks greasy, don’t reach for the shampoo first—check with a vet.

Changes in hygiene can signal pain, illness, or stress.

Book a virtual consult and let a vet assess if it’s something simple or something serious.

🐾💻 Book now at Tele-Vet

🐾 Next Week: Brush Me If You Dare: Grooming Tips for Long & Short-Haired Cats

🐾 Share the Meow-ledge

Know someone living with a greasy goblin of a cat? Forward this newsletter and help a friend (and a feline) feel fresh again.

📤 Share this newsletter

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Thanks For Reading, and Have A Great Week!