The article advises that most cats don’t need baths, except when they can’t clean off certain substances or have matted long hair, and emphasizes that bathing is stressful so spot-cleaning is preferable; if toxins are involved, consult a vet first. When a bath is unavoidable, make it as comfortable as possible by preparing a safe setup with a non-slip surface, cat-specific shampoo (and conditioner if needed), towels, and a brush, avoiding human hair products. Use a small amount of warm (not hot) water and gently lower the cat, keeping water levels low to minimize 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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