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Writer's pictureDr. Susan Milthorpe

Handling Cat Poop Mishaps: A Guide on Removing Cat DooDoo from Fur

Updated: Jan 5

Handling Cat Poop

Cats are meticulous groomers, but occasionally, accidents happen, and a cat may find itself with unwanted feces in its fur. While this situation might seem daunting, with the right approach and a calm demeanor, you can effectively clean your feline friend without causing stress or discomfort. In this guide, we'll explore step-by-step instructions on how to get cat poop out of cat fur safely and efficiently.

Here is a step by step guide to handing Cat Poop Mishaps in a clean, sanitary and comfortable way.


Step 1: Gather Supplies

Before you start the cleaning process, ensure you have the necessary supplies on hand:

  1. Rubber gloves: Protect your hands from direct contact with the feces and cleaning solutions.

  2. Pet-friendly shampoo: Use a mild, cat-specific shampoo to clean your cat's fur without causing irritation.

  3. Warm water: Prepare a basin or use a sink with warm water for rinsing.

  4. Towels or paper towels: Have a stack of towels or paper towels ready for drying your cat after cleaning.

  5. Comb or brush: A wide-toothed comb or cat brush will help remove any remaining residue and prevent matting.

Step 2: Calm and Comfort Your Cat

Approach your cat calmly and reassure them with gentle strokes. Speak in a soothing voice to help them feel at ease. If your cat is particularly stressed, consider placing a towel or blanket on a stable surface to create a comfortable and secure area for cleaning.


Step 3: Wear Protective Gloves

Before handling any feces, put on rubber gloves to protect yourself from potential bacteria and parasites present in cat feces.


Step 4: Remove Excess Poop

Carefully lift away any excess poop from your cat's fur using a paper towel or tissue. Be gentle to avoid causing discomfort or spreading the mess further.


Step 5: Wet the Affected Area

Using a damp cloth or sponge, wet the area around the soiled fur with warm water. Avoid wetting your cat's entire body, as this could lead to unnecessary stress.


Step 6: Apply Pet-friendly Shampoo

Apply a small amount of cat-specific shampoo to the soiled area. Gently massage the shampoo into the fur, focusing on the affected area. Make sure to keep the shampoo away from your cat's eyes, ears, and nose.


Step 7: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse the shampoo thoroughly from your cat's fur using warm water. Ensure that no shampoo residue remains on their skin, as this can cause irritation.


Step 8: Dry Your Cat

Gently pat your cat dry with a soft towel. If your cat tolerates it, you can use a hairdryer on a low, cool setting to speed up the drying process. Make sure the noise and airflow don't stress your cat.


Step 9: Comb or Brush the Fur

Once your cat is dry, use a wide-toothed comb or a cat brush to gently remove any remaining residue and prevent matting. Be patient and gentle to avoid causing discomfort.


Step 10: Monitor for Stress

After the cleaning process, keep a close eye on your cat for signs of stress or discomfort. Offer treats, playtime, or a cozy spot for rest to help them recover from the experience.


Cleaning cat poop out of cat fur might not be the most pleasant task, but approaching it with patience, gentleness, and the right supplies can make the process smoother for both you and your cat. Regular grooming and monitoring your cat's litter box habits can also help prevent future incidents. If you notice persistent issues, consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns that may be contributing to your cat's toileting mishaps.

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