🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 37 (from laksa174)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa037.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical, ml_categories_json AS ml_categories_json, ml_types_json AS ml_types_json, ml_intent_types_json AS ml_intent_types_json, meta_language AS meta_language, attrs_author AS attrs_author, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_publish_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_original_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_original_publish_time, ifNull(attrs_is_republished, 0) AS attrs_is_republished, ifNull(attrs_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_nr_words, ifNull(attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, ifNull(body_ext_links_number, 0) AS body_ext_links_number, ifNull(body_int_links_number, 0) AS body_int_links_number, ifNull(meta_nofollow, 0) AS meta_nofollow, ifNull(meta_noarchive, 0) AS meta_noarchive, ifNull(props_was_rendered, 0) AS props_was_rendered, ifNull(src_redirect, \'\') AS src_redirect, ifNull(download_time_msec, 0) AS download_time_msec, ifNull(download_ttfb_msec, 0) AS download_ttfb_msec, ifNull(download_size, 0) AS download_size FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.marthastewart.com/2226792/how-bathe-your-cat\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.marthastewart.com/2226792/how-bathe-your-cat\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/2226792\/how-bathe-your-cat","crawl_time":1776389350,"first_indexed_time":1579370636,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,marthastewart!www,\/2226792\/how-bathe-your-cat s443","src_root_hash":"16724559291028802437","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Give a Cat a Bath","meta_descriptions":["Here's a step-by-step guide to bathing your cat—and way to know when a bath is truly necessary. Plus, discover the right shampoos to use and what to do before you bathe your cat, according to pet behaviorists."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Ask any\ncat owner\nand they'll tell you the same: Most cats don't like getting wet. But what should you do if your feline friend gets dirty? Your first instinct might be to give them a bath—or at least a partial one. However, cats are excellent at grooming themselves and rarely need traditional baths. We spoke with experts on steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of your cat needing an actual bath and effective ways to clean them at home if they truly do require one.\nVanessa Spano\n, associate veterinarian at\nBehavior Vets of NYC\nHannah Shaw\n, founder of\nKitten Lady\nSerena Juma\n, cat behaviorist at\nPurina\nCredit: Neil Petersen \/ EyeEm \/ Getty Images\nDo Cats Need Baths?\nNot all\ncats need a regular soak, says Vanessa Spano, associate veterinarian at Behavior Vets of NYC. \"Domestic felines do not need to be bathed,\" says Spano. \"Cats, unlike dogs, groom themselves daily—this is a normal species behavior. The majority of cats also may not like being exposed to water, and an unnecessary bath can be very stressful and uncomfortable for those felines unaccustomed to water.\"\nOf course, there are some instances where a bath is necessary—but you should always check with your veterinarian first. Felines' agile bodies and sandpaper-like tongues make them excellent self-groomers, says Hannah Shaw, founder of Kitten Lady, so you can skip the dip unless your pet develops a skin condition, like ringworm (consult your vet about using a medicated soap), or gets especially dirty.\nHow Often to Bathe Your Cat\n\"In general, a healthy adult cat doesn't require bathing unless he or she has gotten into something that has coated the fur and can't be easily removed with brushing,\" Serena Juma, a cat behaviorist at Purina, says. \"Cats groom themselves naturally, however, their owners should help keep them clean by brushing or combing them regularly.\"\nOnly Bathe as Necessary\nIf your cat happens to get dirty enough that you can't just brush them clean, Juma suggests only washing the areas that are soiled. \"If a cat does require a bath, I recommend only bathing the area that needs attention,\" she says. \"Some cats enjoy being in and around water, while many don't like the feeling of being submerged as it causes their coats to become heavier. By only washing areas that need attention, you can help reduce the discomfort that a cat may feel if submerged.\"\nBefore You Bathe Your Cat\nBefore you fill the tub, make sure you have a cat-specific shampoo. \"Shampoos made for humans or dogs, especially flea shampoos, can be toxic to felines,\" she says. \"Most pet stores will have a cat-safe option that clearly states on the packaging that it is feline-friendly. A veterinarian may also recommend a specific shampoo or cleaning method if there is an ongoing health issue that requires the owner to bathe a cat regularly.\"\nNext, trim your cat's nails (if needed) to avoid accidentally being scratched. It's also important to recruit a family member to help. \"This will allow one person to focus attention on interacting with the cat while the other cleans the cat,\" says Juma.\nHow to Give Your Cat a Bath\nMost cats don't like water or being bathed, so play with them first to release some of their energy. Then, take a deep breath and get to work quickly—it will be less painful for both of you.\nMaterials Needed\nPrepare everything that's needed for the bath ahead of time. That involves having the following supplies at the ready:\nCat-safe shampoo\nWashcloth\nMeasuring cup for pouring water\nClean, dry towel\nInstructions\nThoroughly brush your cat. \"Just like for humans, a cat's hair will become more tangled or matted when wet,\" Juma says.\nFill your bathtub or sink with a few inches of water. It should be lukewarm, not too hot or cold.\nGet the area that needs to be cleaned wet by either dipping the cat into the water, pouring water onto her with the measuring cup, or using a washcloth to dampen her fur. Avoid getting water in the cat's eyes, nose, and ears, and don't submerge them if it's not necessary.\nUse a washcloth or soft brush to apply cat-safe shampoo to the dirty areas of your cat. Scrub gently. Always use a washcloth to clean the delicate face area to avoid getting soap or water in their eyes and ears.\nRinse your cat thoroughly.\nWrap your cat in a towel, and dry vigorously. \"You can also back-comb her fur to help it aerate more quickly,\" adds Shaw.","attrs_markdown":"\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/2226792\/how-bathe-your-cat#main)\n\n[Martha Stewart](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/)\n\n- Please fill out this field.\n- [Log In](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/authentication\/login?regSource=10233&relativeRedirectUrl=%2F2226792%2Fhow-bathe-your-cat)\n- My Account\n  - [Log Out](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/authentication\/logout?relativeRedirectUrl=%2F2226792%2Fhow-bathe-your-cat)\n  - [Settings](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/account\/settings)\n- [Martha's Blog](https:\/\/www.themarthablog.com\/)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/2226792\/how-bathe-your-cat)\n- [Sweepstakes](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/sweepstakes)\n\nPlease fill out this field.\n\n- [Food](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1509043\/food-cooking)\n  Food\n  \n  - 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[Recall News](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/recall-news-8729068)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1543773\/news)\n\n[About Us](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/about-marthastewart-com-7104054)\n\n# How to Give Your Cat a Bath—Plus, How Often You Actually Need to Do It\nPet behaviorists give us the scoop on keeping your fluffy friend clean.\n\nBy\n\n[Caroline Biggs](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/author\/caroline-biggs)\n\n![Caroline Biggs, Freelance Writer portrait]()\n\n![Caroline Biggs, Freelance Writer portrait](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/fK8z8Nv_7ZTxFZlFslJBVuMRXC8=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/caroline-biggs-author-0421-266e9ea5d45b4724bc5c1a31af3bbe3b.png)\n\n[Caroline Biggs](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/author\/caroline-biggs)\n\nCaroline is a writer for Martha Stewart. She is a frequent contributor to The New York Times, Apartment Therapy, The Wirecutter, Architectural Digest, Refinery 29, and other publications. She covers design, lifestyle, interiors, real estate, and more.\n\n[Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/about-marthastewart-com-7104054#-toc-editorial-guidelines)\n\nUpdated on February 26, 2025\n\nIn This Article\n\nView All\n\nIn This Article\n\n- [Do Cats Need Baths?](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/2226792\/how-bathe-your-cat#toc-do-cats-need-baths)\n- [How Often to Bathe Your Cat](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/2226792\/how-bathe-your-cat#toc-how-often-to-bathe-your-cat)\n- [Before You Bathe Your Cat](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/2226792\/how-bathe-your-cat#toc-before-you-bathe-your-cat)\n- [How to Give Your Cat a Bath](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/2226792\/how-bathe-your-cat#toc-how-to-give-your-cat-a-bath)\n\n![]()\n\nAsk any [cat owner](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1536900\/cats-mirror-owners-personalities-new-study) and they'll tell you the same: Most cats don't like getting wet. But what should you do if your feline friend gets dirty? Your first instinct might be to give them a bath—or at least a partial one. However, cats are excellent at grooming themselves and rarely need traditional baths. We spoke with experts on steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of your cat needing an actual bath and effective ways to clean them at home if they truly do require one.\n\n- **Vanessa Spano**, associate veterinarian at [Behavior Vets of NYC](http:\/\/www.nycvetbehavior.com\/)\n- **Hannah Shaw**, founder of [Kitten Lady](http:\/\/www.kittenlady.org\/)\n- **Serena Juma**, cat behaviorist at [Purina](https:\/\/www.purina.com\/)\n\n[Scruffing a Cat: Why You Shouldn't Grab a Cat by the Neck, According to Vets](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1541721\/scruffing-cat-why-you-shouldnt-do-it)\n\n![close-Up Of Cat](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/upTECH5VbQe-bIaC1ZdR-krIaYM=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/alert-cat-getty-1121-2000-a627c6d4c8d344a8ac96b6cf9b4b65f0.jpg)\n\n![close-Up Of Cat](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/upTECH5VbQe-bIaC1ZdR-krIaYM=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/alert-cat-getty-1121-2000-a627c6d4c8d344a8ac96b6cf9b4b65f0.jpg)\n\nCredit: Neil Petersen \/ EyeEm \/ Getty Images\n## Do Cats Need Baths?\nNot allcats need a regular soak, says Vanessa Spano, associate veterinarian at Behavior Vets of NYC. \"Domestic felines do not need to be bathed,\" says Spano. \"Cats, unlike dogs, groom themselves daily—this is a normal species behavior. The majority of cats also may not like being exposed to water, and an unnecessary bath can be very stressful and uncomfortable for those felines unaccustomed to water.\"\n\nOf course, there are some instances where a bath is necessary—but you should always check with your veterinarian first. Felines' agile bodies and sandpaper-like tongues make them excellent self-groomers, says Hannah Shaw, founder of Kitten Lady, so you can skip the dip unless your pet develops a skin condition, like ringworm (consult your vet about using a medicated soap), or gets especially dirty.\n\n## How Often to Bathe Your Cat\n\"In general, a healthy adult cat doesn't require bathing unless he or she has gotten into something that has coated the fur and can't be easily removed with brushing,\" Serena Juma, a cat behaviorist at Purina, says. \"Cats groom themselves naturally, however, their owners should help keep them clean by brushing or combing them regularly.\"\n\n### Only Bathe as Necessary\nIf your cat happens to get dirty enough that you can't just brush them clean, Juma suggests only washing the areas that are soiled. \"If a cat does require a bath, I recommend only bathing the area that needs attention,\" she says. \"Some cats enjoy being in and around water, while many don't like the feeling of being submerged as it causes their coats to become heavier. By only washing areas that need attention, you can help reduce the discomfort that a cat may feel if submerged.\"\n\n## Before You Bathe Your Cat\nBefore you fill the tub, make sure you have a cat-specific shampoo. \"Shampoos made for humans or dogs, especially flea shampoos, can be toxic to felines,\" she says. \"Most pet stores will have a cat-safe option that clearly states on the packaging that it is feline-friendly. A veterinarian may also recommend a specific shampoo or cleaning method if there is an ongoing health issue that requires the owner to bathe a cat regularly.\"\n\nNext, trim your cat's nails (if needed) to avoid accidentally being scratched. It's also important to recruit a family member to help. \"This will allow one person to focus attention on interacting with the cat while the other cleans the cat,\" says Juma.\n\n## How to Give Your Cat a Bath\nMost cats don't like water or being bathed, so play with them first to release some of their energy. Then, take a deep breath and get to work quickly—it will be less painful for both of you.\n\n### Materials Needed\nPrepare everything that's needed for the bath ahead of time. That involves having the following supplies at the ready:\n\n- Cat-safe shampoo\n- Washcloth\n- Measuring cup for pouring water\n- Clean, dry towel\n### Instructions\n1. Thoroughly brush your cat. \"Just like for humans, a cat's hair will become more tangled or matted when wet,\" Juma says.\n2. Fill your bathtub or sink with a few inches of water. It should be lukewarm, not too hot or cold.\n3. Get the area that needs to be cleaned wet by either dipping the cat into the water, pouring water onto her with the measuring cup, or using a washcloth to dampen her fur. Avoid getting water in the cat's eyes, nose, and ears, and don't submerge them if it's not necessary.\n4. Use a washcloth or soft brush to apply cat-safe shampoo to the dirty areas of your cat. Scrub gently. Always use a washcloth to clean the delicate face area to avoid getting soap or water in their eyes and ears.\n5. Rinse your cat thoroughly.\n6. Wrap your cat in a towel, and dry vigorously. \"You can also back-comb her fur to help it aerate more quickly,\" adds Shaw.\n\nExplore more:\n\n- [Living](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1537291\/life)\n- [Pets](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1502504\/pets)\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for your feedback\\!\n\nTell us why\\!\n\nOther\n\n## Related Articles\n[![cat playing with catnip toy](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/Bee7MICQUDBLJffTYyqRZqHtLnc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/cat-playing-with-catnip-getty-0923-f7cd0616009c4680851b8c724881ba51.jpg) ![cat playing with catnip toy](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/thmb\/Bee7MICQUDBLJffTYyqRZqHtLnc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/cat-playing-with-catnip-getty-0923-f7cd0616009c4680851b8c724881ba51.jpg) What Is Catnip and Is It Safe for Your Pet? 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Policy](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-privacy)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/careers)\n- [Terms of Service](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-termsofservice)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/advertising)\n\nMartha Stewart is part of the [People Inc.](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/) publishing family.\n\nNewsletter Sign Up\n\nNewsletter Sign Up\n\n![]()","attrs_readable_markdown":"Ask any [cat owner](https:\/\/www.marthastewart.com\/1536900\/cats-mirror-owners-personalities-new-study) and they'll tell you the same: Most cats don't like getting wet. But what should you do if your feline friend gets dirty? Your first instinct might be to give them a bath—or at least a partial one. However, cats are excellent at grooming themselves and rarely need traditional baths. We spoke with experts on steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of your cat needing an actual bath and effective ways to clean them at home if they truly do require one.\n\n- **Vanessa Spano**, associate veterinarian at [Behavior Vets of NYC](http:\/\/www.nycvetbehavior.com\/)\n- **Hannah Shaw**, founder of [Kitten Lady](http:\/\/www.kittenlady.org\/)\n- **Serena Juma**, cat behaviorist at [Purina](https:\/\/www.purina.com\/)\n\nCredit: Neil Petersen \/ EyeEm \/ Getty Images\n\n## Do Cats Need Baths?\nNot allcats need a regular soak, says Vanessa Spano, associate veterinarian at Behavior Vets of NYC. \"Domestic felines do not need to be bathed,\" says Spano. \"Cats, unlike dogs, groom themselves daily—this is a normal species behavior. The majority of cats also may not like being exposed to water, and an unnecessary bath can be very stressful and uncomfortable for those felines unaccustomed to water.\"\n\nOf course, there are some instances where a bath is necessary—but you should always check with your veterinarian first. Felines' agile bodies and sandpaper-like tongues make them excellent self-groomers, says Hannah Shaw, founder of Kitten Lady, so you can skip the dip unless your pet develops a skin condition, like ringworm (consult your vet about using a medicated soap), or gets especially dirty.\n\n## How Often to Bathe Your Cat\n\"In general, a healthy adult cat doesn't require bathing unless he or she has gotten into something that has coated the fur and can't be easily removed with brushing,\" Serena Juma, a cat behaviorist at Purina, says. \"Cats groom themselves naturally, however, their owners should help keep them clean by brushing or combing them regularly.\"\n\n### Only Bathe as Necessary\nIf your cat happens to get dirty enough that you can't just brush them clean, Juma suggests only washing the areas that are soiled. \"If a cat does require a bath, I recommend only bathing the area that needs attention,\" she says. \"Some cats enjoy being in and around water, while many don't like the feeling of being submerged as it causes their coats to become heavier. By only washing areas that need attention, you can help reduce the discomfort that a cat may feel if submerged.\"\n\n## Before You Bathe Your Cat\nBefore you fill the tub, make sure you have a cat-specific shampoo. \"Shampoos made for humans or dogs, especially flea shampoos, can be toxic to felines,\" she says. \"Most pet stores will have a cat-safe option that clearly states on the packaging that it is feline-friendly. A veterinarian may also recommend a specific shampoo or cleaning method if there is an ongoing health issue that requires the owner to bathe a cat regularly.\"\n\nNext, trim your cat's nails (if needed) to avoid accidentally being scratched. It's also important to recruit a family member to help. \"This will allow one person to focus attention on interacting with the cat while the other cleans the cat,\" says Juma.\n\n## How to Give Your Cat a Bath\nMost cats don't like water or being bathed, so play with them first to release some of their energy. Then, take a deep breath and get to work quickly—it will be less painful for both of you.\n\n### Materials Needed\nPrepare everything that's needed for the bath ahead of time. That involves having the following supplies at the ready:\n\n- Cat-safe shampoo\n- Washcloth\n- Measuring cup for pouring water\n- Clean, dry towel\n### Instructions\n1. Thoroughly brush your cat. \"Just like for humans, a cat's hair will become more tangled or matted when wet,\" Juma says.\n2. Fill your bathtub or sink with a few inches of water. It should be lukewarm, not too hot or cold.\n3. Get the area that needs to be cleaned wet by either dipping the cat into the water, pouring water onto her with the measuring cup, or using a washcloth to dampen her fur. Avoid getting water in the cat's eyes, nose, and ears, and don't submerge them if it's not necessary.\n4. Use a washcloth or soft brush to apply cat-safe shampoo to the dirty areas of your cat. Scrub gently. Always use a washcloth to clean the delicate face area to avoid getting soap or water in their eyes and ears.\n5. Rinse your cat thoroughly.\n6. Wrap your cat in a towel, and dry vigorously. \"You can also back-comb her fur to help it aerate more quickly,\" adds Shaw.","meta_canonical":null,"ml_categories_json":"{\"\/Pets_and_Animals\":997,\"\/Pets_and_Animals\/Pets\":994,\"\/Pets_and_Animals\/Pets\/Cats\":994}","ml_types_json":"{\"\/Article\":999,\"\/Article\/How_to\":965}","ml_intent_types_json":"{\"Informational\":999}","meta_language":"en","attrs_author":null,"attrs_publish_time":0,"attrs_original_publish_time":1579370636,"attrs_is_republished":0,"attrs_nr_words":"1484","attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words":"762","body_ext_links_number":17,"body_int_links_number":87,"meta_nofollow":0,"meta_noarchive":1,"props_was_rendered":1,"src_redirect":"","download_time_msec":239,"download_ttfb_msec":130,"download_size":48385}

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How to Give a Cat a Bath

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Here's a step-by-step guide to bathing your cat—and way to know when a bath is truly necessary. Plus, discover the right shampoos to use and what to do before you bathe your cat, according to pet behaviorists.

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Ask any cat owner and they'll tell you the same: Most cats don't like getting wet. But what should you do if your feline friend gets dirty? Your first instinct might be to give them a bath—or at least a partial one. However, cats are excellent at grooming themselves and rarely need traditional baths. We spoke with experts on steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of your cat needing an actual bath and effective ways to clean them at home if they truly do require one. Vanessa Spano , associate veterinarian at Behavior Vets of NYC Hannah Shaw , founder of Kitten Lady Serena Juma , cat behaviorist at Purina Credit: Neil Petersen / EyeEm / Getty Images Do Cats Need Baths? Not all cats need a regular soak, says Vanessa Spano, associate veterinarian at Behavior Vets of NYC. "Domestic felines do not need to be bathed," says Spano. "Cats, unlike dogs, groom themselves daily—this is a normal species behavior. The majority of cats also may not like being exposed to water, and an unnecessary bath can be very stressful and uncomfortable for those felines unaccustomed to water." Of course, there are some instances where a bath is necessary—but you should always check with your veterinarian first. Felines' agile bodies and sandpaper-like tongues make them excellent self-groomers, says Hannah Shaw, founder of Kitten Lady, so you can skip the dip unless your pet develops a skin condition, like ringworm (consult your vet about using a medicated soap), or gets especially dirty. How Often to Bathe Your Cat "In general, a healthy adult cat doesn't require bathing unless he or she has gotten into something that has coated the fur and can't be easily removed with brushing," Serena Juma, a cat behaviorist at Purina, says. "Cats groom themselves naturally, however, their owners should help keep them clean by brushing or combing them regularly." Only Bathe as Necessary If your cat happens to get dirty enough that you can't just brush them clean, Juma suggests only washing the areas that are soiled. "If a cat does require a bath, I recommend only bathing the area that needs attention," she says. "Some cats enjoy being in and around water, while many don't like the feeling of being submerged as it causes their coats to become heavier. By only washing areas that need attention, you can help reduce the discomfort that a cat may feel if submerged." Before You Bathe Your Cat Before you fill the tub, make sure you have a cat-specific shampoo. "Shampoos made for humans or dogs, especially flea shampoos, can be toxic to felines," she says. "Most pet stores will have a cat-safe option that clearly states on the packaging that it is feline-friendly. A veterinarian may also recommend a specific shampoo or cleaning method if there is an ongoing health issue that requires the owner to bathe a cat regularly." Next, trim your cat's nails (if needed) to avoid accidentally being scratched. It's also important to recruit a family member to help. "This will allow one person to focus attention on interacting with the cat while the other cleans the cat," says Juma. How to Give Your Cat a Bath Most cats don't like water or being bathed, so play with them first to release some of their energy. Then, take a deep breath and get to work quickly—it will be less painful for both of you. Materials Needed Prepare everything that's needed for the bath ahead of time. That involves having the following supplies at the ready: Cat-safe shampoo Washcloth Measuring cup for pouring water Clean, dry towel Instructions Thoroughly brush your cat. "Just like for humans, a cat's hair will become more tangled or matted when wet," Juma says. Fill your bathtub or sink with a few inches of water. It should be lukewarm, not too hot or cold. Get the area that needs to be cleaned wet by either dipping the cat into the water, pouring water onto her with the measuring cup, or using a washcloth to dampen her fur. Avoid getting water in the cat's eyes, nose, and ears, and don't submerge them if it's not necessary. Use a washcloth or soft brush to apply cat-safe shampoo to the dirty areas of your cat. Scrub gently. Always use a washcloth to clean the delicate face area to avoid getting soap or water in their eyes and ears. Rinse your cat thoroughly. Wrap your cat in a towel, and dry vigorously. "You can also back-comb her fur to help it aerate more quickly," adds Shaw.

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By [Caroline Biggs](https://www.marthastewart.com/author/caroline-biggs) ![Caroline Biggs, Freelance Writer portrait]() ![Caroline Biggs, Freelance Writer portrait](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/fK8z8Nv_7ZTxFZlFslJBVuMRXC8=/200x200/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/caroline-biggs-author-0421-266e9ea5d45b4724bc5c1a31af3bbe3b.png) [Caroline Biggs](https://www.marthastewart.com/author/caroline-biggs) Caroline is a writer for Martha Stewart. She is a frequent contributor to The New York Times, Apartment Therapy, The Wirecutter, Architectural Digest, Refinery 29, and other publications. She covers design, lifestyle, interiors, real estate, and more. [Editorial Guidelines](https://www.marthastewart.com/about-marthastewart-com-7104054#-toc-editorial-guidelines) Updated on February 26, 2025 In This Article View All In This Article - [Do Cats Need Baths?](https://www.marthastewart.com/2226792/how-bathe-your-cat#toc-do-cats-need-baths) - [How Often to Bathe Your Cat](https://www.marthastewart.com/2226792/how-bathe-your-cat#toc-how-often-to-bathe-your-cat) - [Before You Bathe Your Cat](https://www.marthastewart.com/2226792/how-bathe-your-cat#toc-before-you-bathe-your-cat) - [How to Give Your Cat a Bath](https://www.marthastewart.com/2226792/how-bathe-your-cat#toc-how-to-give-your-cat-a-bath) ![]() Ask any [cat owner](https://www.marthastewart.com/1536900/cats-mirror-owners-personalities-new-study) and they'll tell you the same: Most cats don't like getting wet. But what should you do if your feline friend gets dirty? Your first instinct might be to give them a bath—or at least a partial one. However, cats are excellent at grooming themselves and rarely need traditional baths. We spoke with experts on steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of your cat needing an actual bath and effective ways to clean them at home if they truly do require one. - **Vanessa Spano**, associate veterinarian at [Behavior Vets of NYC](http://www.nycvetbehavior.com/) - **Hannah Shaw**, founder of [Kitten Lady](http://www.kittenlady.org/) - **Serena Juma**, cat behaviorist at [Purina](https://www.purina.com/) [Scruffing a Cat: Why You Shouldn't Grab a Cat by the Neck, According to Vets](https://www.marthastewart.com/1541721/scruffing-cat-why-you-shouldnt-do-it) ![close-Up Of Cat](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/upTECH5VbQe-bIaC1ZdR-krIaYM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/alert-cat-getty-1121-2000-a627c6d4c8d344a8ac96b6cf9b4b65f0.jpg) ![close-Up Of Cat](https://www.marthastewart.com/thmb/upTECH5VbQe-bIaC1ZdR-krIaYM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/alert-cat-getty-1121-2000-a627c6d4c8d344a8ac96b6cf9b4b65f0.jpg) Credit: Neil Petersen / EyeEm / Getty Images ## Do Cats Need Baths? Not allcats need a regular soak, says Vanessa Spano, associate veterinarian at Behavior Vets of NYC. "Domestic felines do not need to be bathed," says Spano. "Cats, unlike dogs, groom themselves daily—this is a normal species behavior. The majority of cats also may not like being exposed to water, and an unnecessary bath can be very stressful and uncomfortable for those felines unaccustomed to water." Of course, there are some instances where a bath is necessary—but you should always check with your veterinarian first. Felines' agile bodies and sandpaper-like tongues make them excellent self-groomers, says Hannah Shaw, founder of Kitten Lady, so you can skip the dip unless your pet develops a skin condition, like ringworm (consult your vet about using a medicated soap), or gets especially dirty. ## How Often to Bathe Your Cat "In general, a healthy adult cat doesn't require bathing unless he or she has gotten into something that has coated the fur and can't be easily removed with brushing," Serena Juma, a cat behaviorist at Purina, says. "Cats groom themselves naturally, however, their owners should help keep them clean by brushing or combing them regularly." ### Only Bathe as Necessary If your cat happens to get dirty enough that you can't just brush them clean, Juma suggests only washing the areas that are soiled. "If a cat does require a bath, I recommend only bathing the area that needs attention," she says. "Some cats enjoy being in and around water, while many don't like the feeling of being submerged as it causes their coats to become heavier. By only washing areas that need attention, you can help reduce the discomfort that a cat may feel if submerged." ## Before You Bathe Your Cat Before you fill the tub, make sure you have a cat-specific shampoo. "Shampoos made for humans or dogs, especially flea shampoos, can be toxic to felines," she says. "Most pet stores will have a cat-safe option that clearly states on the packaging that it is feline-friendly. A veterinarian may also recommend a specific shampoo or cleaning method if there is an ongoing health issue that requires the owner to bathe a cat regularly." Next, trim your cat's nails (if needed) to avoid accidentally being scratched. It's also important to recruit a family member to help. "This will allow one person to focus attention on interacting with the cat while the other cleans the cat," says Juma. ## How to Give Your Cat a Bath Most cats don't like water or being bathed, so play with them first to release some of their energy. Then, take a deep breath and get to work quickly—it will be less painful for both of you. ### Materials Needed Prepare everything that's needed for the bath ahead of time. That involves having the following supplies at the ready: - Cat-safe shampoo - Washcloth - Measuring cup for pouring water - Clean, dry towel ### Instructions 1. Thoroughly brush your cat. "Just like for humans, a cat's hair will become more tangled or matted when wet," Juma says. 2. Fill your bathtub or sink with a few inches of water. It should be lukewarm, not too hot or cold. 3. Get the area that needs to be cleaned wet by either dipping the cat into the water, pouring water onto her with the measuring cup, or using a washcloth to dampen her fur. Avoid getting water in the cat's eyes, nose, and ears, and don't submerge them if it's not necessary. 4. Use a washcloth or soft brush to apply cat-safe shampoo to the dirty areas of your cat. Scrub gently. Always use a washcloth to clean the delicate face area to avoid getting soap or water in their eyes and ears. 5. Rinse your cat thoroughly. 6. Wrap your cat in a towel, and dry vigorously. "You can also back-comb her fur to help it aerate more quickly," adds Shaw. Explore more: - [Living](https://www.marthastewart.com/1537291/life) - [Pets](https://www.marthastewart.com/1502504/pets) Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! Tell us why\! 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Ask any [cat owner](https://www.marthastewart.com/1536900/cats-mirror-owners-personalities-new-study) and they'll tell you the same: Most cats don't like getting wet. But what should you do if your feline friend gets dirty? Your first instinct might be to give them a bath—or at least a partial one. However, cats are excellent at grooming themselves and rarely need traditional baths. We spoke with experts on steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of your cat needing an actual bath and effective ways to clean them at home if they truly do require one. - **Vanessa Spano**, associate veterinarian at [Behavior Vets of NYC](http://www.nycvetbehavior.com/) - **Hannah Shaw**, founder of [Kitten Lady](http://www.kittenlady.org/) - **Serena Juma**, cat behaviorist at [Purina](https://www.purina.com/) Credit: Neil Petersen / EyeEm / Getty Images ## Do Cats Need Baths? Not allcats need a regular soak, says Vanessa Spano, associate veterinarian at Behavior Vets of NYC. "Domestic felines do not need to be bathed," says Spano. "Cats, unlike dogs, groom themselves daily—this is a normal species behavior. The majority of cats also may not like being exposed to water, and an unnecessary bath can be very stressful and uncomfortable for those felines unaccustomed to water." Of course, there are some instances where a bath is necessary—but you should always check with your veterinarian first. Felines' agile bodies and sandpaper-like tongues make them excellent self-groomers, says Hannah Shaw, founder of Kitten Lady, so you can skip the dip unless your pet develops a skin condition, like ringworm (consult your vet about using a medicated soap), or gets especially dirty. ## How Often to Bathe Your Cat "In general, a healthy adult cat doesn't require bathing unless he or she has gotten into something that has coated the fur and can't be easily removed with brushing," Serena Juma, a cat behaviorist at Purina, says. "Cats groom themselves naturally, however, their owners should help keep them clean by brushing or combing them regularly." ### Only Bathe as Necessary If your cat happens to get dirty enough that you can't just brush them clean, Juma suggests only washing the areas that are soiled. "If a cat does require a bath, I recommend only bathing the area that needs attention," she says. "Some cats enjoy being in and around water, while many don't like the feeling of being submerged as it causes their coats to become heavier. By only washing areas that need attention, you can help reduce the discomfort that a cat may feel if submerged." ## Before You Bathe Your Cat Before you fill the tub, make sure you have a cat-specific shampoo. "Shampoos made for humans or dogs, especially flea shampoos, can be toxic to felines," she says. "Most pet stores will have a cat-safe option that clearly states on the packaging that it is feline-friendly. A veterinarian may also recommend a specific shampoo or cleaning method if there is an ongoing health issue that requires the owner to bathe a cat regularly." Next, trim your cat's nails (if needed) to avoid accidentally being scratched. It's also important to recruit a family member to help. "This will allow one person to focus attention on interacting with the cat while the other cleans the cat," says Juma. ## How to Give Your Cat a Bath Most cats don't like water or being bathed, so play with them first to release some of their energy. Then, take a deep breath and get to work quickly—it will be less painful for both of you. ### Materials Needed Prepare everything that's needed for the bath ahead of time. That involves having the following supplies at the ready: - Cat-safe shampoo - Washcloth - Measuring cup for pouring water - Clean, dry towel ### Instructions 1. Thoroughly brush your cat. "Just like for humans, a cat's hair will become more tangled or matted when wet," Juma says. 2. Fill your bathtub or sink with a few inches of water. It should be lukewarm, not too hot or cold. 3. Get the area that needs to be cleaned wet by either dipping the cat into the water, pouring water onto her with the measuring cup, or using a washcloth to dampen her fur. Avoid getting water in the cat's eyes, nose, and ears, and don't submerge them if it's not necessary. 4. Use a washcloth or soft brush to apply cat-safe shampoo to the dirty areas of your cat. Scrub gently. Always use a washcloth to clean the delicate face area to avoid getting soap or water in their eyes and ears. 5. Rinse your cat thoroughly. 6. Wrap your cat in a towel, and dry vigorously. "You can also back-comb her fur to help it aerate more quickly," adds Shaw.

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