Should I Bathe My Pet?

Should I Bathe My Pet?

               Bathing pets is not always an easy task and some pets need more frequent bathing and grooming than others.  What is the best way to give your pet a bath and how often do pets need to be bathed?

               Some dogs may require frequent bathing every 2-4 weeks, while others may only need an occasional bath.  Put your dog in a bathtub on a non-slip surface, or, if it is warm outside, you could use a hose and bucket to give your dog a bath, just make sure the water is not too hot or too cold. Use a basic pet shampoo, wet and lather the coat with shampoo and be sure to rinse the coat well. Use cool/lukewarm water and make sure to thoroughly dry your dog after bathing. Dogs may enjoy some peanut butter or other soft food smeared on the tub wall during bathing to act as a distraction.

               Cats do not usually require a bath, but it may be necessary if your cat has a skin condition or gets something messy in her fur.  Cats can become stressed and may try to scratch or bite, so use caution when attempting to bathe your cat.  As with dogs, make sure your sink or tub has a non-slip surface or use a small towel to provide traction.  Do not submerge your cat in water but fill the tub or basin with a small amount of water, gently pour water over the coat to wet it, lather the coat then rinse well. Make sure to dry the coat well with a towel when finished.

               Small mammals such as ferrets, rabbits, hamsters, mice/rats and guinea pigs rarely need bathing and bathing may actually be drying to the skin and can cause undue stress. If your small mammal does require a bath due to fecal matter in the coat or something sticky or toxic on the skin, be sure to use a shampoo formulated for pocket pets or a gentle baby shampoo in a pinch.  Use a shallow pan or bowl with a very small amount of lukewarm water and make sure that your pet cannot slip. Rinse the fur well to avoid any shampoo residue and make sure to completely dry your pet and keep him or her somewhere warm and away from any drafts as many small mammals are susceptible to colds and respiratory infections.  Never put small mammals into deep water as they usually cannot swim well and may panic and injure themselves or inhale the water.  A “dry bath” with cornstarch or dry shampoo may be a better choice.

               Patton Veterinary Hospital does not recommend using flea shampoo on any pet. There are much better flea treatments and preventatives available. Also, take care not to get water or shampoo in your pet’s ears or eyes as it could cause infection or irritation.  If your pet panics, do not force him or her to continue the bath.  Seek assistance from a groomer or veterinarian if your pet is stressed by bathing. Remember to use proper techniques for bathing and do not bathe your pet too often.

               This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.