Bathing is important for keeping your pet’s coat clean and maintaining skin and coat health. We know sometimes bathing our furry family members can be challenging. Here are some tips and tricks you can use next time you are bathing your pet.
Lick mats
Lick mats filled with your pet’s favourite treat, such as peanut butter (make sure it is pet friendly), can be stuck onto the wall of the bath to provide a distraction. This can be particularly useful if using a medicated shampoo with a 10 minute contact time, such as Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo or Pyohex® Medicated Shampoo.
Use a sponge
A sponge can be used to assist with lathering the shampoo into the coat. When lathering, always add more water before adding more shampoo.
Use a face towel
Most pets don’t like water being poured directly onto their face. Using a damp cloth to clean around the face is usually well tolerated and can help protect the eyes and the ears from shampoo and water.
Towel wrapping
If a 10 minute contact time is required, try wrapping your pet’s body in a towel during this time. This will make them feel warm and secure and will also help to prevent ingestion or inhalation of the shampoo. This is a particularly useful technique for cats.
Positive reinforcement
The aim is to make your pet’s bath time an enjoyable experience. Try incorporating things your pet loves; this may be a game, their favourite toy, a massage and/or plenty of treats! Don’t forget to praise your pet’s good behaviour.