One of the most important rules to remember when dealing with kittens is that they must stay warm. Especially in the first two weeks.  If you have decided that they need to be bathed you must keep this in mind.  Here is the list of needed items:

1. Pet carrier

2. Heating pad with low setting.

3. Thick towel or cloths for inside the carrier and a large cloth for draping over the carrier.

4. Gentle shampoo.  Hartz makes a feline shampoo that works well and is not irritating to their eyes.

5. Warm water. I usually bathe them one at a time in the sink with the water running very slowly.

6. Soft hand towels or washcloths for drying them.

Here is the protocol that I use.

1. Set the carrier up with the heating pad between the layers of either a folded towel or cloth.  Don’t ever place the kitten directly on a heating pad.  Too hot and you don’t want to run the risk of dehydrating them.  These little ones are delicate.

2. Put the heating pad on low or warm and make sure that when you touch the cloth on top it is only slightly warm to your touch. I use the inside of my forearm to check temps.

3. Have the washcloths handy to wrap them up in as soon as they are out of the water.

4. Turn the water on and let it warm up.  Have it set at a very slow speed.

5. Pick up one kitten and hold it in the palm of your hand so that it’s head and arms dangle over your hand.  You can control them easier this way.  Another way which will work when they are 4 weeks or older is to hold them by the scruff at the back of the neck.  The kittens become limp when in this position.

6. Use the other hand to gently wet the kitten’s fur starting neck down.  I usually do the head last. Keep water and soap away from his eyes and nose.

7. Once the body is wet add a tiny amount of shampoo to the fur and start lathering.  You will find that the bodies of the kittens are tiny.  Not necessary to rub, just lightly massage the fur.  If they have been covered in fleas you will find that the water and soap lather have turned red from dried blood and flea feces.  A great reason to bathe them.  Rinse off the soap while gently scooping water on them.

8. Use a wet washcloth to wash the face , head and ears.

9. When no soap is left on them, turn off the water, pick up a washcloth and wrap them up in it.  This will remove most of the water. Use another if necessary.

10. When the kitten is damp and not wet place him into the carrier.  You can wrap him in a dry washcloth  or place him on the towel which is inside and then cover him with another washcloth.

11. Close the carrier and put the large towel or cloth over the sides of the carrier. Make sure that there is still air moving into the carrier. 

Usually within 30 minutes the kitten is dry and fluffy. And of course, ready to eat.

It is always prudent to check with your veterinarian when beginning to foster a new kitten.  Many times the kittens will need to have attention for infections, parasites or additional nutritional help.

later,

charlie