How to Bathe Orphaned Kittens

Orphan kittens must be kept clean and housed in sanitary conditions to reduce the risk of disease. Young orphaned kittens benefit from a gentle wipe-down with a warm, moist cloth once per week to ensure good hygiene. As kittens mature, they will take care of their own grooming needs. There may be times, however, when a kitten needs a proper bath.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat toys
  • Cat nail clippers
  • Brush
  • Rubber mat
  • Kitten-specific shampoo
  • Washcloth
  • Towels
  • Plastic pitcher or cup
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Instructions

    • 1

      Play with your kitten with interactive cat toys before bath time. Encourage him to expend energy during play so he will be tired for the bath. Once he has slowed down, clip you kitten's nails to avoid getting scratched during the bath. Bath time will be more productive if you brush your kitten thoroughly prior to getting him wet. Work to eliminate loose hair and remove mats in the kitten's fur.

    • 2

      Line the sink with a rubber mat or old towel so the kitten won't slip during the bath. Gather kitten-specific shampoo, a washcloth, bath towels and a plastic pitcher or large unbreakable cup. In a small, unbreakable cup, dilute the kitten shampoo. Use a one part shampoo to five parts warm water ratio. Fill the sink with 2 to 3 inches of lukewarm water.

    • 3

      Lower your kitten into the warm water carefully. Thoroughly wet her with either a dribbling hand-held sprayer or the pitcher filled with warm water. Be careful to avoid getting water in your pet's eyes, ears and nose. She may fight you on this but remain firm and calm. Keep one hand on your kitten at all times.

    • 4

      Pour the diluted kitten shampoo on your kitten's back. Gently work the shampoo into his fur starting at the head and moving towards the tail. Lather your orphaned kitten in the direction his hair grows. Avoid getting shampoo in his eyes, ears and nose.

    • 5

      Rinse the kitten with the hand-held sprayer or the pitcher filled with clean, warm water. Continue rinsing until all the shampoo is removed and the water runs clear. If necessary, dampen a washcloth with warm, clean water and gently wipe your kitten's face.

    • 6

      Remove the kitten from the water and wrap her in a clean, dry towel. Rub her in the direction her hair grows as you dry her with the towel. Keep her in a warm place until she is thoroughly dry.