Cat Gets Sick After Bath: Possible Causes & Solutions

Part 1: Why Does a Cat Fall Ill After a Bath?

Many pet owners are baffled by the sudden illness of their cats following a quick bath. After a mere shower, their feline friends may exhibit symptoms such as listlessness, loss of appetite, and even vomiting, diarrhea, sneezing, runny nose, and shivering, as if they're on the brink of collapse. There could be two reasons for this. Firstly, if the water used for the bath was too cold or the cat wasn't dried off promptly after the bath, it could lead to a chill, resulting in bacterial infections in the respiratory or gastrointestinal tract. This can then trigger coldlike symptoms and gastrointestinal discomfort. Secondly, if the pet owner was too rough during the bathing process, causing the cat immense fear, it may lead to a stress response. Cats in a state of stress often show signs like shivering, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe stress in cats can lead to various diseases, including spontaneous cystitis and feline infectious peritonitis. Therefore, if a cat exhibits unusual symptoms after a bath, it's crucial to take them to a veterinary hospital for a checkup and treatment.

Part 2: The Proper Way to Bathe a Cat

To prevent such occurrences, pet owners must learn the correct way and steps to bathe their cats.

Step 1: Since cats are particularly sensitive to cold, if bathing them during winter, it's essential to first increase the indoor temperature to around 2729 degrees Celsius.

Step 2: Prepare a towel with good absorbency and a catspecific shampoo.

Step 3: Fill a large basin with warm water, maintaining a temperature of approximately 3840 degrees Celsius, which should feel just right when your hand is dipped in.

Step 4: Gently place the cat into the basin. If the cat resists, hold them gently and slowly wet them with water, then apply the shampoo once they are thoroughly soaked.

Step 5: After rinsing the shampoo off, use your hands to remove some of the water, then wrap the cat in a towel to absorb the remaining moisture. Finally, use a hairdryer to ensure the cat is completely dry.

Important Note: When bathing a cat, it's best to use a basin instead of a showerhead, as cats tend to dislike the sensation of water being sprayed on them. To avoid causing stress, always have a basin ready.

For those pet owners who aren't confident in bathing their cats, it's advisable to take them to a pet salon for the first bath. Observing and learning the process firsthand can be very helpful.