Expert: Tomay - 6/29/2006

Question
Hi tomay,

I have a 21 year old short haired cat.  She is very well and all is
in working order except the fact that she no longer washes her
face!  Consequently she gets food on her face and whiskers.   I
know this is quite normal and I clean her face with warm water
and cotton wool.    My question is what to put in the warm water
to clean her face adequately.  Can you advise?

With best regards Jayne

Answer
Hi Jayne,
Wow! Congratulations on having such a long lived kitty!
As far as what to put in the water to wash her face, you could put just a dab of baby shampoo, as it is tearless and gentle.  If you just use a little bit, you will still be able to effectively rinse with just the warm water and cotton wool you are using now.  There are also waterless cleaning products for pets in the form of a mousse.  Just put it on then wipe it off.  This effectively cleans easily and safely.  You might check with a local pet shop to see if they carry it.
Hope this has been helpful and thank you for your inquiry and your intrest in this site.
Tomay