We are often asked how often and with what a pet should be bathed. This is different for every pet and usually based on the type and condition of the pet.
The majority of cats do not do well being bathed. Cats are meticulous groomers and tend to keep themselves pretty clean. Brushing or combing several times a week is recommended to help remove dead hair, allow the owner to see the condition of the skin, and as a boding time for cat and owner. Flea combs make excellent grooming tools for cats. Long hair cats should be combed more often. If your cat’s hair becomes knotted or matted, it may be recommended that he or she be shaved down, or have a ‘lion cut.’ Very few cats tolerate this awake, so a light sedation is often required for the safety of the cat and the groomer.
If your cat is a rarity and does not mind the occasional bath, use a soap free pet shampoo. Make sure you rinse your cat well to remove all the shampoo.
The frequency of baths for dogs depends largely on the breed and activity of the dog. Some dogs may only require a bath a few times a year. Others who enjoy swimming in the creek or rolling in the mud may require more frequent baths.
Some breeds of dogs (i.e. poodles, cocker spaniels, schnauzers) may require trips to a professional groomer if you want them cut or trimmer in a certain way. Otherwise, feel free to bathe at home as needed.
For the dog who needs the occasional bath, you may use a soap free pet shampoo. An aloe and oatmeal based shampoo is good for most dogs and soothes the skin. Make sure you rinse your dog well to remove all the shampoo.
Some dogs may have skin conditions that require prescription medicated shampoos. These shampoos and conditioners have extra ingredients specifically for your pet’s skin problems (bacterial infection, yeasty skin, allergies). Often these pets will require weekly or twice weekly bathing, allowing the shampoo to remain on the skin for 5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Here are a few things to think about before you bathe your pet:
- Always ask your vet for a recommendation on a appropriate shampoo for your pet
- Flea shampoos are discouraged as they work only when the pet is wet. There is no residual effect (i.e. does not work when pet is dry). These are also very harsh on the skin.
- When bathing your pet, be sure to work the shampoo between each toe and rinse the paws well. Paws are often the focus point for pets to lick and chew due to allergies, so be sure you wash them well.
- After every bath, clean your pet’s ears with a pet ear cleaner. If your pet has had ear problems in the past, ask your veterinarian for a good product to use. Ears will hold moisture which allows infections to develop. Wipe the ears out well with cotton balls (NEVER q-tips!).
Even if your dog doesn’t need a bath, weekly brushing/combing is good for getting dead hair out, stimulating the skin, and is a bonding moment for dog and owner. Long hair pets and pets with very thick hair coats need brushed more often to keep the skin and hair coat healthy. If you are unable to brush or bathe your pet at home as often as necessary for the breed or condition of your pet, please seek the help of a professional groomer. Waiting until your dog is extremely matted with irritated skin is costly for you and uncomfortable for the dog. Setting up regular appointments with the groomer will keep your pet comfortable and looking nice.
Please contact Suburban Animal Clinic at 614-276-5479 if you need help selecting an appropriate shampoo for your pet, or for a list of client recommended groomers.
Note: Our grooming list is based on client recommendations. Suburban Animal Clinic does not endorse a specific groomer and encourages clients to select a groom on their own accord.