How to Give a Pregnant Cat a Flea Bath

Bathing a cat is no easy task -- cat lovers around the world have scars to prove it. A special level of panic is involved when bathing a cat to get rid of fleas. Even more worry comes into play when that flea-infested cat is pregnant. Care and caution go a long way when giving a pregnant cat a flea bath. Attention to details and safety keep you and your cat safe during bath time. Always speak to your veterinarian to determine the safety and health of your cat before treating your pregnant cat with any medicated substance.

Things You'll Need

  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Water
  • Cup
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Instructions

    • 1

      Avoid over-the-counter, commercially available flea shampoos. These shampoos may contain permethrins, pyrethroids, phenothrin, or etofenprox which "The Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians" advises are not indicated for use with pregnant cats. Read the label to find out the safety recommendations for the shampoo.

    • 2

      Obtain a prescription flea shampoo from your veterinarian. Prescription-only flea shampoos safe for pregnant cats are available. If this is not possible due to monetary constraints, "Shelter Medicine for Veterinarians and Staff" suggests considering dish soap in place of flea shampoo.

    • 3

      Plug the bathtub. Run lukewarm water. Fill the tub with an inch of water.

    • 4

      Restrain the cat. Gently grasp the back of the cat's neck at the scruff. Some, but not all, cats go limp when this area is pinched.

    • 5

      If necessary, enlist the help of a friend to restrain the cat while you bathe her. Have your friend grasp the cat's scruff and hold the cat's back legs to keep them from scratching you.

    • 6

      Lather up the cat with the prescription flea shampoo or dish soap. Make sure the shampoo or soap penetrates all layers of the cat's coat, down to the skin.

    • 7

      Allow the soap to sit for three to five minutes. This provides time for the shampoo or soap to weaken, sicken or kill the fleas.

    • 8

      Rinse the cat thoroughly. Accomplish this by running lukewarm tap water and moving the cat beneath the faucet or rinsing the cat using a cup. Run your hands through her fur as you rinse, ensuring all of the soap or shampoo is rinsed away.

    • 9

      Remove the cat from the bathtub. Dry the cat using a towel to remove as much excess moisture as possible. This prevents chills, shaking and possible illness. Allow your cat to dry and groom herself to her liking.