Crypticat isn't very fond of baths but she tolerates them. We don't bathe her often, indoor cats don't get very dirty. Once and a while, just like anyone else, she can use a good bath.
You can see she is fairly comfortable in the water. If you look extra careful, you can make out her beard 😸 We always make sure the water is slightly warmer than body temperature or she would probably scratch off my arm trying to get out. Cat's don't like being cold and are sort of like a giant sponge.
BEFORE
AFTER
You can see in the before picture she knew what was about to go down, she tried to go hide in her shower but we closed the door. The last thing you want is for a wet cat to go jump in the kitty litter. It happened once and lets just say bath time wasn't over.
We make a shampoo out of mild dish detergent and vinegar. It is watered down and not the stuff that is tough on grease, 1-1-6 or so is the ratio. I don't put any near her eyes or ears and we don't have to worry about her going under.
The bath never lasts long, just a quick scrub followed by a rinse and it's over. Crypticat does not find the water relaxing but she is getting used to it more and more each time. Some say there is no need to wash a cat, I disagree, there is definitely dirt after. Think about all the benefits of bathing, why shouldn't a cat be washed once and a while?
The best time is when the bath is over! Not only does the cat look hilarious, but she is about half the size and twice the weight. I try to strain her out a bit before wrapping her in a towel. Regardless she always spends a good hour cleaning herself once she is out of the water.
