If you want to give your feline friend some TLC, then learning how to give a cat a spa day is a great way to do it. While they probably won't enjoy a sauna or a swim like we might, there are plenty of other ways to help them relax and unwind!
Whether you treat them to a restorative head massage or a grooming session with the best cat brushes, they're sure to appreciate your care. As well as being relaxing for your cat, these activities are a great way to bond – and it's always nice to see them having a good time!
Before you get started, it's worth bearing in mind that not all cats like lots of fuss and attention. You should monitor your cat's body language along the way to see how they're feeling. If they're not keen on physical touch, they might prefer a playtime session or a self-grooming toy instead.
Here are our top tips for giving your cat the ultimate spa day at home:
How to give a cat a spa day
1. Create a relaxing environment
First, set the scene with a calm environment that's relaxing for your cat. Choose a location that’s quiet, safe, and free from lots of foot traffic, and provide them with the best cat bed to snuggle into. You'll also want to give them a scratching post and a cat tree and dot their favorite toys around the room.
Unfortunately, essential oils are toxic to cats, so make sure you avoid using these when setting up your spa day. Instead, try plugging in a pheromone diffuser, like this one from Amazon, which can help them to destress.
Cat behaviorist Amanda Campion says: "Creating a calm and stress-free environment is key to helping your cat unwind. Avoid dusk and dawn, when they are most likely to be most active. Dim the lights, play white noise or music, and use calming cat attractant sprays to set a peaceful atmosphere. Ensure your cat has a familiar, safe space to relax undisturbed away from other pets and young children."
2. Give them a massage
Yep, that's right – cats can enjoy massages too! Not only does this feel great and potentially relieve stress, but it can also help with muscle soreness and circulation.
Amanda says: "If your cat is open to it, a gentle massage can be an excellent way to help them relax. Focus on areas they enjoy, such as behind the ears, under the chin, or along their back, using slow, circular motions. Always watch their body language; any tail flicking, ear flattening, or skin twitching are signs they have had enough. Everything must be done with your cat's consent."
4. Brush them
It wouldn't be a pamper day without a grooming session – and we have a complete guide on brushing cats if you're not sure where to start. Not only is this relaxing for your feline, but it also promotes good skin and coat health, helping to remove dirt, grease, skin flakes, and dandruff. There are various types of cat brushes to choose from, with slicker brushes and soft bristle brushes being the most popular choice for most cats.
Amanda says: "Brushing can also be incredibly soothing, especially for cats who enjoy being groomed. Use a soft-bristle brush and move slowly, gently along their coat. If they lean in or purr, they are enjoying the attention; if they move away, stiffen, or show irritation, give them space and stop immediately."
5. Catnip or valerian toys
The best catnip toys can help your feline relax, so you might want to incorporate them into your spa day. If your cat is one of the few who don't react to it, you can try alternatives like silvervine and valerian, which have a similar effect.
Amanda says: "For extra relaxation, try valerian-infused toys or bedding. Valerian has a calming effect on cats, helping them feel at ease."
6. Feed them
After all that relaxing, your cat will probably have worked up an appetite for a spa day snack! If their dietary requirements allow, treat them to something special – like the best cat treats or a tasty topper on their favorite food. If you want to take things to the next level, you could even learn how to make cat treats for a homemade touch.
7. Heated bed for snooze
There's no better way to end a spa day than curling up in one of the best heated pet beds – especially for cats who love to snooze!
Amanda says: "Providing a heated bed or a warm, fleecy blanket can also encourage your cat to fully relax."
Amanda adds: "Always let your cat be in control of their pampering session. If they show any signs of discomfort or overstimulation, stop and give them space. A kitty spa day should always be on their terms!"
You might also want to read about how to be a good cat owner and ways to destress your cat.
Practicing as a full clinical animal behaviorist member, Amanda's passion is cats. She helps to correct all their quirky unwanted issues, anxiety, and stresses that can manifest from time to time. Amanda has worked alongside charities for many years, helping to rehabilitate cats from surrender and euthanasia. She previously had her own cattery, fostering and rehabilitating traumatized shelter cats, enabling them to go in to have happy lives with their new owners. She loves engaging with the cat caregivers and deciphering what problems they are having, as well as using her detective skills to find out what the cats’ problems are. As a CAB, she assists with a wide range of feline behaviors but the most rewarding to her is to see a previously traumatized or anxious cat start to trust again which is life-changing for the cat.
Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis de Leaver.
Recent updates
This page was last updated on February 15 by Megan Milstead.
