We discussed this with our veternarian and he told us unless Misty our cat has for some reason for me to bathe her medically it is not necessary to do so. Cats are a very clean animal and if bathed it could make their skin very dry. Also it is hard to get the soap whatever kind completely out of their hair and they lick a lot and is digesting this soap which can make them sick. He suggested letting Misty clean herself. She does well enough job. Just keeping her brushed daily is good enough. That is from our vet that we have had for 20 or more years. I feel he knows what is best for my cats he has several of his own. Hope I could help.