How to Keep a Sick Cat Clean

Having a sick cat is not an enjoyable experience---for you or the cat. If the illness is severe, you may be required to bathe the cat, as it is important to keep your cat clean to help fight off any other infections or diseases. A little preparation can help the cat bath go smoothly and keep your animal from discomfort.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 large buckets
  • 2 or 3 towels
  • 2 washcloths
  • Pet shampoo
  • Cat brush
  • Heating pad
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Instructions

    • 1

      Gather your supplies: buckets, washcloths, pet shampoo, towels and cat brush. You may want to get a heating pad and turn it on to a low, comfortable temperature. After the bath, you cat might become chilled.

    • 2

      Fill one bucket with warm water and pet shampoo, and fill the other with warm water. The second bucket will be used for rinsing. Be sure the water is warm, and not hot enough to cause your cat discomfort.

    • 3

      Brush your cat to remove any excess fur.

    • 4

      Lay out a towel or two for your cat to lie on while you bathe it. As you will likely be dripping water, be sure the towels are thick enough to keep the floor dry.

    • 5

      Dampen a cloth in the bucket of water containing the pet shampoo. Wipe your cat's face, paying close attention to the eyes and mouth area. A sick cat tends to get watery eyes, which can become crusty. If your cat has been vomiting or taking oral medication, there might be residue around the mouth.

    • 6

      Wash the rest of your cat. It is important to be gentle and not to move the cat around too much.

    • 7

      Dampen the second cloth in the bucket of warm water. Wipe the cat down to remove the shampoo. Be sure to thoroughly clean the animal; excess shampoo can cause skin irritation when it dries on your cat.

    • 8

      Wrap your cat in a towel to dry. Be sure the cat is comfortable while being wrapped in the towel. Keep wiping the cat down until it is dry.

    • 9

      Place the heating pad under a towel or blanket to provide your cat with warmth, after the cat is dry. Be sure the heating pad is on a low temperature; if the cat seems uncomfortable, remove the heating pad.