I’m feeling pretty devastated and could really use some advice right now. My mom's beloved cat, Muffin, passed away very suddenly, and we’re all in shock. The thing is, I had just given her a bath that morning. She seemed perfectly fine before, just her usual fluffy self, but within an hour or so after the bath, she started breathing really strangely and just wasn’t herself. We rushed her to the vet, but she didn’t make it. I’m haunted by the thought that the bath somehow caused this, and I can’t stop blaming myself. Has anyone experienced anything like this? I just want to understand what might have gone wrong. Would appreciate any thoughts or similar experiences you can share, as I’m absolutely heartbroken about this whole situation.
I'm so sorry to hear about your mom's cat. Losing a pet is incredibly difficult, especially when it's sudden and unexpected. Let's try to understand what might have happened.
Cats can sometimes have a severe reaction to stress, such as a heart attack or stroke, especially during activities like a bath, which many cats find very stressful. It's also possible the cat could have had an underlying health issue, such as heart disease, that wasn't apparent beforehand.
Another concern could be if the cat ingested something toxic during the bath, possibly from substances on its fur or the bathing products used. Bath products intended for humans or dogs can be harmful to cats.
For future reference, it's important to ensure that any bath products used are safe for cats and to keep the bathing process as calm and gentle as possible.
If you notice signs like difficulty breathing, lethargy, or vomiting in a cat during or after a bath, it’s crucial to seek veterinary help immediately.
If you’re still concerned or have more questions, I recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. We’re here to help you with any further insights or provide support during this difficult time.
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's
not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely.
For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our
content guidelines.