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Why is my cat sick and in pain after a Head & Shoulders bath?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Tonkinese | Male | neutered | 12 years and 4 months old | 11 lbs

My cat is acting really weird, 12 hours ago I gave him a bath with head and shoulders shampoo, he freaked out more than usual it might have hurt himself along with ingested some soap. He just threw up for the first time which looked unusual like cheddar and broccoli soup, I've never seen it look like that before. He also won't eat, move, drink, he got up once to use the bathroom recently. He also screams in pain, originating from under his arms I think. He never licked himself clean after this

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 7th, 2018

I am concerned that he is not eating, moving, or drinking and is exhibiting pain. He may have licked some of the shampoo causing some stomach upset but I think he needs to be examined by a vet to determine the cause of all his problems and best way to treat. He might need an anti-vomiting medication and pain medications to make him feel better. Although there are no reports that head and shoulders is toxic to cats, in the future, only bathe him with shampoos that are labeled for use in cats. Your vet can recommend the best shampoo based on the condition of his skin.

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