My adopted cat is always dirty. Should I bathe him despite vet advice?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 2 years old | 5 lbs
I have adopted a stray cat and he doesn't keep himself clean. He does lick himself after he's had his meals but then again he goes out and comes home dirty, with dust and mud all over his body. Our vet recommends not to bathe him as cats need not be bathed. Should I let him be dirty like this or should I bathe him occasionally like once a week ?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on October 27th, 2018
I do not recommend bathing him, if his coat seems to be dirty and sticky all the time, that is probably because he is suffering from a gum disease, this creates a very slimy saliva and when the cat cleans himself it sticks to the coat and creates a very dirty looking coat, in that case he will need to be treated for that but bathing a cat is rarely a solution unless the cat becomes extremely dirty once in a while, bathing a cat once a week is not an option.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 16th, 2018
No, it is not necessary to bathe a cat! They are very fastidious and clean by nature, so you most certainly do not need to bathe your cat. If they have dander or aren’t grooming themselves well for some reason, brushing can help tremendously without the stress of a bath. Great question!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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