Cats generally don’t need baths, but in rare cases—such as when they’re soiled with something they can’t clean off or have severely matted long hair—bathing may be necessary; because most cats find baths very stressful, spot-clean when possible and consult a vet first if toxins are involved. If bathing is unavoidable, prepare in advance with a non-slip bathing area, cat-specific shampoo (not human products), optional cat conditioner, towels, and a brush, then use shallow warm water and lower the cat gently to reduce anxiety.
Bathing Cats: Everything You Need to Know
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26 May 2025
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Cats don’t usually need baths, but there are some exceptional circumstances. If they’re rolled in something that they can’t wash off themselves, or they have long hair which has become matted, a bath might be a good idea.
Most cats really dislike baths and they can find the experience very stressful. If you’re able to, just clean an isolated area, rather than getting their entire body wet.
That said, there are rare occasions when bathing your cat is unavoidable, in which case there are ways to make the experience more comfortable for both of you. However, if your cat needs a bath because they’ve come into contact with toxic substances, take them to the vet first.
Before you bathe your cat
Get everything you need in one place, so that once you’ve started bathing your cat, everything is within easy reach. You’ll need:
- A large plastic bucket, sink or bath (lined with a non-slip floor mat) to use as a cat bath.
- Specialist cat or kitten shampoo. Find a mild all-rounder with no harsh chemicals or perfumes. Never use human shampoo, as it’s unsuitable for cat hair and skin due to the difference in pH levels.
- A cat conditioner if required. Again, don’t use conditioner for human hair.
- A towel or two.
- A brush to help remove matts and knots.
Bathing your cat
Fill the cat bath with just enough warm (not hot) water to wash your cat and lower your cat gently into the water. Don’t overfill, as this will just make your cat more anxious!
Cats don’t usually need baths, but there are some exceptional circumstances. If they’re rolled in something that they can’t wash off themselves, or they have long hair which has become matted, a bath might be a good idea.
Most cats really dislike baths and they can find the experience very stressful. If you’re able to, just clean an isolated area, rather than getting their entire body wet.
That said, there are rare occasions when bathing your cat is unavoidable, in which case there are ways to make the experience more comfortable for both of you. However, if your cat needs a bath because they’ve come into contact with toxic substances, take them to the vet first.
Before you bathe your cat
Get everything you need in one place, so that once you’ve started bathing your cat, everything is within easy reach. You’ll need:
- A large plastic bucket, sink or bath (lined with a non-slip floor mat) to use as a cat bath.
- Specialist cat or kitten shampoo. Find a mild all-rounder with no harsh chemicals or perfumes. Never use human shampoo, as it’s unsuitable for cat hair and skin due to the difference in pH levels.
- A cat conditioner if required. Again, don’t use conditioner for human hair.
- A towel or two.
- A brush to help remove matts and knots.
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