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My cat's butt is dirty with feces/discharge. How do I clean it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 1 year and 4 months old | 12 lbs

I got my cat about two months ago. They said that she was spayed and had recently had a litter. I have noticed that she does not clean her butt and has either feces or some kind of discharge around her vulva (since I got her). I thought that it was her litter or litter box so I changed it. I also change the litter regularly and have her on Rachel Rays cat food. Can I get advice on how to clean her? Also, is there anything wrong with the whole vaginal discharge or feces thing? Thanks

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on September 16th, 2019

Poor Aggie. It is definitely not normal for them to have feces stuck back there and this most commonly happens when they are sick or having diarrhea. It can happen also to really obese cats. It is also not normal for them to have vaginal discharge especially if she is spayed. I would strongly recommend to have her seen by a vet so they can figure out why this is happening. If she will allow y'all to bathe her, you can use a regular, oatmeal based cat shampoo to help cleanse her. If you don't have that you can use a gentle cleaner like dial gold just on her rear end. If you aren't sure about bathing her, your vet should be able to help you with this too. I hope this helps and she starts to feel better soon.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on May 14th, 2018
If she is unable to keep herself clean then you may have to help assist. You could take her to a groomer for a bath and sanitary clipping, especially if her hair is long around her rear end. If she will let you, then you could also try to bathe her at home. If she is overweight then putting her on a diet to lose weight might make it easier for her to groom and keep herself clean.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH
Veterinarian
Published on June 6th, 2018
Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Sorry to hear about the poop incident- this can happen sometimes.

She likely was yowling because she didn't like the feeling of the wipe on her paws or rear. Some cats simply do not like their paws or rear end touched. You can consider bathing her or taking her to a cat groomer if she doesn't like the wipes much. You can also try a no rinse pet shampoo too.

I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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